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Tummy tuck overview

Tummy tuck Scotland

TYPE OF ANAESTHETIC

General

LENGTH OF SURGERY

2 hours

NIGHTS IN HOSPITAL

Mini – day surgery, Full – 1 night

RECOVERY

2-3 weeks off work, 6 weeks before strenuous exercise

Procedures

If you’re considering abdominoplasty, it’s important to understand that it’s a significant cosmetic surgery that typically lasts 2-3 hours. Recovery can take up to 4-6 weeks. Patients who are at or near their ideal weight tend to see the best results, and satisfaction rates are generally high. This procedure may also involve tightening the abdominal muscles, particularly for those who have had previous pregnancies, and liposuction to reduce fullness in the flanks and upper abdomen.

What is a standard abdominoplasty?

A standard or full abdominoplasty involves removing the excess skin and fat between your pubic area (bikini line in women) and your belly button. Your belly button is left attached in its place, but a cut is made around it to free it from the surrounding skin (which is to be removed). The remaining skin left at the level of the belly button is then pulled down and stitched at the pubic level. The belly button is brought out through a new cut made in the skin that has been pulled down over it. Any weakness of your muscles or hernias is repaired before your wound is closed.

What is a mini tummy tuck?

If you’re looking for a less invasive option for skin and fat removal in your lower tummy area, a mini tummy tuck may be a suitable option for you. This procedure removes less skin and does not involve cuts around the belly button. Your belly button will remain intact but may be slightly pulled down. The scar from this procedure is typically shorter than a standard tummy tuck, but not always.

For those with a larger skin overhang and fat in the lower tummy area, an apronectomy may be a modified option of the mini tummy tuck. This procedure removes only the excess skin and fat, but the resulting scar is longer and extends from one side of the apron to the other.

What is an extended abdominoplasty?

If you have undergone significant weight loss, you may require an extended abdominoplasty to remove excess skin and fat from your abdomen and lower back. This procedure typically results in a scar around the belly button and a long, curved scar on the abdomen above the pubic area and towards the flank or lower back. In some cases, the wound may extend all the way around the body, which is known as a circumferential abdominoplasty and is a complex procedure.

I had a full tummy tuck and muscle repair in March 2024 after having my baby in 2023. The difference this has made to my body has been life-changing, particularly the muscle repair (7cm wide) that Mr Quaba performed.

I no longer have back pain, and I no longer have the loose excess skin that used to hang over my previous c-section scars. I can exercise more freely, and this has made a difference in my ability to run again after having a baby. My journey to this point has been tough, and my tummy tuck meant more to me than how I looked on the inside. A few years ago, I lost my son during labour. Somehow, I felt that my procedure formed an important part of my journey through grief. I’m struggling to find the words to explain, but the reason I mention this is that Mr Quaba knew how much my procedure meant to me, and he responded with care and empathy.

The level of care and service I received while in hospital was amazing. The nurses took good care of me and did what they could to make me feel comfortable. They were lovely to talk to and made me feel at ease in a hospital setting. I’m so glad I decided to have my procedure done by Mr Quaba. I researched where I should go and if I should consider going abroad. After my operation I was healing as hoped, however I just had a major operation and in my view it is not worth the risk travelling overseas. There is something to be said about having easier access to medical attention following a major operation. A few times I was paranoid about my recovery (all in my head) and I was able to drive over and get check out by a nurse. Also, if there had been any serious complications, Mr Quaba would be there to support. I have since learned that many people travel all over to have their procedure carried out by Mr Quaba, and now I see why.

Thank you for everything. You have changed the quality of my life. I will be forever grateful.

Elaine

Trustpilot Nov 2024

Frequently asked questions

What specific concerns can a tummy tuck address?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and tightens weakened or separated abdominal muscles. This procedure is particularly effective for patients with loose skin after weight loss or pregnancy, enhancing abdominal contour and muscle tone. However, it is not a weight-loss procedure and may be combined with other treatments if additional fat reduction is desired.

How long does it take to recover from a tummy tuck?

Recovery time varies, but generally, most patients can return to light activities within two weeks. Full recovery, allowing for strenuous activities and exercise, typically takes 4-6 weeks. Patients should follow a structured aftercare plan and attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

Will a tummy tuck remove stretch marks?

A tummy tuck may remove some stretch marks if they are located on the excess skin that is excised, typically between the pubic area and the navel. However, stretch marks outside the surgical area will likely remain.

Is liposuction combined with abdominoplasty?

Yes, liposuction can often be combined with abdominoplasty to enhance the abdominal contour further. This combination removes stubborn fat deposits around the abdomen and waistline, providing a more sculpted result. Your surgeon will discuss whether this combined approach is suitable for your goals and body type.

Can I have liposuction alone instead of an abdominoplasty?

Sometimes, liposuction alone may be an option for patients with good skin elasticity and no need for muscle repair or excess skin removal. However, this approach is only suitable for a small number of patients. An abdominoplasty is usually the more appropriate option for those with loose skin or muscle separation. Your surgeon will carefully assess your needs to determine the best procedure.

What if I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?

While it is safe to become pregnant after a tummy tuck, pregnancy may stretch the abdominal skin and muscles, potentially affecting the results of your surgery. For this reason, it’s usually recommended to wait until you are finished with family planning before undergoing a tummy tuck. If pregnancy does occur, a follow-up consultation can help assess any impact on your surgical results.

Are there any long-term impacts on abdominal muscles after a tummy tuck?

During a tummy tuck, separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) are often repaired, which can improve core stability and strength. However, maintaining these results over the long term requires core-strengthening exercises and a stable weight. Patients should discuss lifestyle considerations with their surgeon to maintain the outcomes.

How visible are tummy tuck scars?

Tummy tuck scars vary depending on the procedure and individual healing factors. Generally, scars are positioned low on the abdomen, making them easily concealed under clothing. Over time, scars can fade significantly, and certain treatments (such as silicone sheets or laser therapy) may help reduce their visibility.

Are the results of a tummy tuck permanent?

A tummy tuck offers long-lasting results, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle and stable weight. However, significant weight fluctuations or pregnancy after surgery can alter the results, so it is recommended to wait until family planning and weight goals are stable.

When will I see the final results of my tummy tuck?

Most patients see initial improvements soon after surgery, but swelling can take several weeks to subside fully. The final results may take 3-6 months to become apparent as tissues heal and adjust to their new contours.

Benefits of tummy tuck surgery

Abdominoplasty, commonly known as tummy tuck surgery, offers a range of benefits for those seeking a smoother, more toned abdominal area. Here are the key advantages of this transformative procedure:

•Strengthens Abdominal Muscles: Tummy tuck surgery repairs and tightens weakened or separated abdominal muscles, resulting in a firmer, more defined core.

•Removes Excess Skin: Significant weight loss or pregnancy can leave behind excess skin that is difficult to reduce with diet and exercise alone. Tummy tuck surgery removes this skin, restoring a smoother and more contoured abdomen.

•Eliminates Stubborn Fat: Even with a balanced diet and regular exercise, persistent fat deposits in the abdominal area can be hard to target. Tummy tuck surgery removes these fat pockets, creating a sleeker silhouette.

•Boosts Self-Confidence: Achieving a toned and refined abdominal area can boost self-esteem and positively impact body image, contributing to greater confidence.

•Enhances Overall Aesthetic: By creating a flatter, more youthful abdominal profile, tummy tuck surgery rejuvenates the appearance of the midsection, bringing balance and attractiveness to the body’s contours.

View before and after gallery

What are the risks?

A tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure. Fortunately, most patients have few problems, but some serious complications can occur.

Possible general complications include an unexpected reaction to the anaesthetic, chest infection or developing a blood clot, usually in a vein in the leg (deep vein thrombosis, DVT). A DVT can be a serious condition; if the clot spreads to the lungs (pulmonary embolus), the outcome can be fatal. Fortunately, pulmonary embolism is uncommon after abdominoplasty (under 1 in 100 patients). You would have a risk assessment during your pre-assessment, and we take precautions to reduce the risks of DVT. These include stockings, mechanical pumps that keep the circulation going in your legs, and blood thinning injections where appropriate.

The risk of severe complications during a general anaesthetic is approximately 1 in 100,000.

Complications specific to tummy tuck include:

Infection

This might require treatment with antibiotics. Rarely, the infection can be severe, resulting in you becoming unwell and needing an operation to wash out the abdomen. In extreme cases, this can cause loss of skin or the inability to close the wounds.

Bleeding

This might require a return to the theatre to stop the bleeding and drain the area (risk less than 5 in 100).

Delayed healing

Particularly in the tighter central part of the wound. Sometimes dressings are needed for a few weeks, which is more common in overweight patients and smokers.

Seroma

Is a persistent collection of serous fluid under your skin. The fluid can be drained with a needle during your post-operative visits. Such drainage generally stops eventually (but may last more than a month) and rarely affects the final cosmetic outcome. The incidence of seroma has been reported as affecting 7-10 out of every 100 patients.

Poor scarring

Scars are permanent and can remain red, thickened, and itchy (hypertrophic scars). These can take several months to settle down. The scars may stretch with time.

Numbness

This is usually temporary but can be permanent.

Change in shape of the belly button (umbilicus)

Your belly button will be brought out through the skin once the skin has been pulled down. This will result in a different shape and a scar around the umbilicus.

Asymmetry

Perfect symmetry does not exist before or after abdominoplasty surgery. Scars will never be identical from side to side, and the umbilicus may not be exactly in the midline.

Revision surgery

Occasionally, revision surgery may be required if the outcome is unsatisfactory. Better results are usually achieved when patients are at their ideal body weight.

Our no drain tummy tuck

Our work on no drain tummy tuck was awarded the ‘best presentation’ at the Scottish Meeting of Plastic Surgeons in 2013 and has been published in the world’s leading plastic surgery journal – Plastic Reconstructive Surgery in 2015. Awf Quaba was invited to discuss our technique and results in October 2018 at the annual meeting of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) – Abdominoplasty to drain or not to drain?

We looked at all tummy tucks performed in our practice over ten years and assessed the outcomes, focussing on our risks and complications and the need for revisions.

Standard tummy tuck

Many surgeons in the UK use drains during a tummy tuck procedure, and these can remain in place for anything from 1 day to 5 days. The logic behind using drains is to reduce the risk of blood and fluid collecting under the skin. Drains can be uncomfortable for patients and limit mobility. They can delay the time a patient must stay in the hospital. There is little evidence for their use in the published literature.

Our results

We looked at 271 patients over a ten year period who had a tummy tuck in our practice. None of the patients had drains as we use a modified technique that we believe limits the risk of bleeding and seroma (fluid collection within the abdomen that is one of the most common side effects of a tummy tuck).

These were some of our findings:

The average age of a patient having a tummy tuck in our practice: 45 years old (range from 20 years to over 60 years)

Average number of previous pregnancies: 2.4 pregnancies

60% of patients had scars on their abdomens from pasts surgery (mostly caesarian sections or hysterectomies)

61% of patients had liposuction of their bellies combined with a tummy tuck

47% of patients had other cosmetic procedures at the same time as their tummy tuck (the most frequent other operation was a breast augmentation/ or breast lift)

Our complication rates

Bleeding

1.8% of patients had bleeding after surgery which required them to go back to the theatre to stop the bleeding. This outcome compares very favourably with other studies which used drains. Their bleeding rates that needed a return to the theatre were 0.9%, 3%, 2%, 3.8% and 6.8%.

Seroma

Our seroma rate (which required draining using a needle in the outpatient department) was 7.7%. Again this compares very favourably with other published studies which used drains. The published seroma rates in these studies ranged from 4.5% to 19.2% with most having higher percentages than ourselves.

Wound infection

Our wound infection rate (infections which required treatment with antibiotics) was 4.5%. Again this compares favourably with other studies.

Our revision rates:

Our revision rate (patients needing a second procedure due to dissatisfaction with the first procedure) was 8.9%. This revision rate was lower than any other published series (range 11% to 34.4%). An extensive series published in the UK looked at the revision rates of a group of cosmetic surgeons in London and reported a revision rate of 24%.

Our inpatient stay:

On average our patients were in the hospital for 1.7 days. Again this was lower than most other published series bearing in mind that 47% of our patients had other cosmetic procedures carried out at the same time.

What is different about our technique?

Our tummy tuck is no different to a standard tummy tuck in its aim to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen. The scars are the same (hip to hip), and the abdominal muscles are tightened in the same way when required. The difference is that we leave behind a thin layer of fat (subscarpa fat) over the abdominal wall. This layer of fat is thought to be rich in lymph draining channels that may be important in reducing seroma formation. The thin layer of fat left behind also reduces the amount of space (dead space) when the wounds are closed. Reducing dead space may be helpful in promoting healing and limiting the amount of fluid that can collect.

Our study has shown that tummy tucks can be carried out safely and with low complication rates if drains are not used. Not using drains means less discomfort for patients and earlier discharge from the hospital. We have demonstrated that patients leave the hospital within two days of having surgery (on average) and that our revision rate is low (8.9%)

Publication of our work

The no-drain, no-quilt abdominoplasty: a single-surgeon series of 271 patients

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery 135(3):p 751-760, March 2015

What to expect and tummy tuck aftercare

First few days

After returning home, it’s recommended to engage in light walking and movement to aid in recovery. However, it may take a few weeks to fully regain your strength. It’s normal to experience mood fluctuations following surgery. Additionally, it’s typical to notice some blood staining on the inside of your dressings during the initial days of recovery.

Discomfort/ pain

It is normal to feel some pain within the initial days following surgery, particularly if muscle tightening was involved. Alongside this, you may also experience numbness surrounding the wound. There is a possibility of temporary soreness, tightness, swelling, and discomfort in the incision areas.

Bruising/ swelling

It’s normal to experience tightness and bloating in your abdominal area for a few days and weeks following a tummy tuck procedure. Additionally, bruising is typical. However, if you notice increased swelling after a week, it could be a sign of a seroma (fluid build-up) that may need to be drained.

Appearance

It’s normal for swelling to decrease within 4-6 weeks. However, any scars may appear red and inflamed for up to six months. Fortunately, with time, they tend to become less noticeable and blend in better with your skin.

If you have had a tummy tuck with us or are considering it – please find some detailed instructions and advice on aftercare following your procedure.

Explore tummy tuck aftercare

Tummy Tuck / Abdominoplasty