Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

A tummy tuck removes loose skin and excess fat from the abdomen and, when needed, repairs abdominal muscles separated by pregnancy or weight change, for a flatter, firmer profile. It leaves a permanent scar low on the abdomen, below the underwear line.

Full or Mini Tummy Tuck

Loose abdominal skin that exercise cannot fix often follows pregnancy or major weight loss, and separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) add to the bulge. A mini tummy tuck removes skin below the belly button only and leaves the navel where it is. A full tummy tuck tightens the skin above and below the navel and recreates the belly button in its new position. Liposuction of the waist and flanks can be added when needed.

Who It Suits

It suits healthy people whose weight has been stable for a while and who have loose abdominal skin. It is not a weight-loss method, and if the skin is still elastic, liposuction alone may be enough. Surgery is usually postponed if you plan a pregnancy or significant weight loss soon, and it is not recommended with uncontrolled heart disease or diabetes, a history of blood clots, or for people who cannot stop smoking.

How the Operation Is Done

The operation takes about three hours, usually under general anesthesia, with one to two nights in hospital; a mini tummy tuck can sometimes be done under sedation with local anesthesia. The incision runs low between the hip bones, below the underwear line. The skin and fat are lifted, separated muscles are stitched together in the midline, and the skin is drawn down and trimmed. A drain may be placed to prevent fluid build-up. Previous scars, the degree of muscle separation and future pregnancy plans are reviewed with plastic surgeon Op. Dr. Toygar Ünveren.

Recovery

Tightness and pain in the abdomen are expected at first; walking slightly bent and resting with the knees bent protect the incision early on. A compression garment is worn for several weeks, and walking soon after surgery lowers the risk of blood clots. Most people return to desk work after about two weeks and wait a few more before heavy lifting or abdominal exercise. The scar can take up to a year to mature.

Risks to Discuss

Fluid under the skin (seroma), bleeding, infection, slow wound healing, a wide or thick scar, an irregular belly button and reduced sensation in the lower abdomen can occur. Blood clots in the leg veins are rare but serious, which is why early movement and preventive measures matter. One-sided leg swelling, shortness of breath, a high fever or darkening skin at the wound need urgent care.

Planning Your Trip to Istanbul

If you are traveling from abroad, the first consultation can be held remotely before you book your trip, so you arrive with a clear plan. Allow for one to two nights in hospital and a longer stay than for smaller procedures; your surgeon advises when it is safe to fly, given the importance of preventing blood clots.

Book a Consultation

Interested in Tummy Tuck? Contact us to schedule a personalised consultation with our specialists.