What Is a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is an aesthetic surgical operation in which sagging excess skin and fat in the abdominal area are removed and loosened, separated abdominal muscles are tightened. The front wall of the abdomen, which has widened due to weight gain and loss, pregnancy or other reasons, is narrowed to achieve a flatter and firmer abdomen. The operation is often planned together with liposuction and is an important method in body contouring.

Who Is It Suitable For?

• People who have developed sagging and laxity in the abdomen after weight gain and loss
• People with sagging and an unattractive appearance of the abdominal skin after pregnancy
• People with separation of the abdominal muscles
• People with an abdominal wall hernia where repairing it in the same operation is considered appropriate

There is no single definition of an “ideal candidate”; suitability for surgery is assessed individually after the examination. However, some criteria are important for the operation to go smoothly:

• Weight having been stable for the last 3 months
• A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or below
• Not having smoked for at least 3 weeks
• Any chronic illnesses being under control

How Is the Operation Performed?

A tummy tuck is performed under general anaesthesia and can take between 2 and 5 hours depending on the patient’s condition.

• Incision: The operation begins with an incision below the underwear line, similar to a caesarean incision and hidden within the underwear.
• Belly button: If the position of the belly button is to be changed, a second incision is made around it for the transfer.
• Tightening the muscles: The loosened and separated abdominal muscles are tightened; any hernia or muscle separation is also repaired.
• Removing excess tissue: The excess sagging abdominal skin is removed together with the fat tissue.
• Closure: The incision is closed with hidden stitches under the skin and covered with a dressing.
• Drain: A drain is placed so that fluid does not accumulate under the skin.
• Compression garment: Immediately after the operation, a suitable compression garment is put on in the operating room.

A hospital stay of usually 2 days is planned after the operation.

Recovery Process

• Early mobilisation: Early movement is recommended; the sooner patients get up, the faster they recover.
• Drain: The drains are removed 24 hours after the operation.
• Shower and bath: You can shower and bathe 72 hours after the operation.
• Follow-up: A check-up and wound examination are performed after 7–10 days.
• Compression garment: The garment, which is important for recovery, is worn for about 6 weeks.
• Return to work: Usually 2 weeks off work is sufficient.
• Exercise: Light exercise can be started after the 4th week and strenuous exercise after the 2nd month.
• Swelling and bruising: Acute bruising and swelling resolve by the 2nd week. If liposuction was also performed, it can take up to 3 months for the swelling to disappear completely and for the area to reach its final shape.

Results and Permanence

By removing excess skin and fat tissue and tightening the abdominal muscles, a flatter and firmer abdomen is achieved. The final result is visible after the 3rd month; this period can sometimes extend to a year. Results may vary from person to person.

The results are permanent; however, significant weight gain or loss or a new pregnancy after surgery can cause changes in the body and may affect the result.

The scar usually matures by the end of the first year. Scar creams, gels and silicone tapes are recommended for about 2 months to help the scar heal in a controlled way.

Risks

As with any surgical procedure, a tummy tuck carries risks. These risks are discussed in detail during the examination, taking into account the patient’s health.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does tummy tuck surgery take?

Performed under general anaesthesia, the operation can take between 2 and 5 hours depending on the patient’s condition.

How many days do I stay in hospital?

A hospital stay of usually 2 days is planned.

Where is the scar?

The incision is made below the underwear line, similar to a caesarean incision, so that it stays hidden within the underwear. If the belly button is relocated, there is also an incision around it. The scar usually matures by the end of the first year.

When can I return to work?

Usually 2 weeks off work is sufficient.

How long do I wear the compression garment?

The garment is put on in the operating room and worn for about 6 weeks.

When can I exercise?

Light exercise can be started after the 4th week and strenuous exercise after the 2nd month.

When will I see the result, and is it permanent?

The final result is visible after the 3rd month and can sometimes take up to a year. The results are permanent; however, later significant weight changes or a new pregnancy can affect the result.

Can a tummy tuck and liposuction be performed together?

Yes. A tummy tuck is often performed together with liposuction. In this case it can take up to 3 months for the swelling to disappear completely.

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This content was prepared by Op. Dr. Mert Seçer.
Last updated: 22 October 2026