Body
Tummy Tuck
Also known as Abdominoplasty · Mini Tummy Tuck · Stomach Tuck
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area while tightening the underlying abdominal muscles. It is designed to create a flatter, firmer, and more toned abdominal contour — particularly where diet and exercise have not addressed loose skin or separated muscles.
2–5 Hours
Duration
General
Anaesthesia
1–2 Nights
Hospital Stay
Am I a Good Candidate?
A tummy tuck may be appropriate for those who:
- Are in good overall physical health and at a stable weight
- Are a non-smoker, or willing to cease smoking at least 4–6 weeks prior to surgery
- Have excess or loose abdominal skin that does not respond to diet or exercise
- Have weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) following pregnancy or weight changes
- Are not planning future pregnancies — pregnancy after a tummy tuck can affect results
- Have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve
What to Expect — The Procedure
Incisions are placed as low as possible along the bikini line to allow concealment under underwear and swimwear. Your surgeon will recommend whether a full or mini approach is most appropriate based on your anatomy and goals during the pre-operative consultation.
Pre-operative Care
- Cease smoking at least 4–6 weeks prior to surgery
- Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E) for 2 weeks before surgery
- Inform your surgeon of all current medications, allergies, and medical conditions
- Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you and assist you for the first 24–48 hours
- Reach and maintain a stable weight prior to surgery — ideally within 5–10kg of your goal weight
- Arrange for an extended period of assistance post-surgery — recovery is more involved than many other procedures
- Prepare a recliner or adjustable bed if possible — sleeping slightly bent reduces tension on the incision
The following are general guidelines only. Your assigned surgeon will provide personalised pre and post-operative instructions during your consultation.
Post-operative Care
- Wear any prescribed compression garment as directed — typically for 6 weeks
- Avoid submerging incisions in water until your surgeon confirms the wounds are fully healed
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments for wound checks and progress assessment
- Walk slightly bent forward for the first week to reduce tension on the abdominal incision
- Avoid any core exercises, sit-ups, or activities that engage the abdominal muscles for 6–8 weeks minimum
- Drain tubes may be present for the first few days — our care team will assist with monitoring and removal
- Maintain a gentle, fibre-rich diet in the early recovery period to avoid constipation
When to Call Your Surgeon
- High fever (above 38.3°C / 101°F)
- Sudden or rapidly increasing pain not relieved by prescribed medication
- Excessive bleeding or unusual discharge from the incision site
- Sudden swelling in one leg noticeably different from the other — may indicate a blood clot
- Sudden significant increase in abdominal swelling or tightness — may indicate haematoma or seroma
- Signs of allergic reaction — skin rash, severe itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have a tummy tuck if I plan to have more children?
Is a tummy tuck a weight loss procedure?
Can liposuction be performed at the same time?
Ready to Begin Your Transformation?
Send us an enquiry and we’ll match you with the right surgeon for your goals.