Is a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) right for you?
Written by:
Plastic surgeon
Published: 20/01/2021
Edited by: Emma McLeod
The tummy tuck is a popular plastic surgical procedure, but is it the right one for achieving your dream abdomen?
Mr Ahid Abood is a plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgeon in London and Cambridge. What’s more, he’s an expert in performing the tummy tuck procedure. Learn from him about who’s eligible and ineligible for a tummy tuck, if it’s safe, the cost of a tummy tuck and more.
What is a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)?
A tummy tuck (also called abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure which primarily removes excess skin from the abdomen. If any separation exists between the abdominal muscles (which can result in a ‘bulge’), we can repair it at the same time during the tummy tuck procedure.
In certain circumstances, the addition of liposuction can enhance the overall effect of the tummy-tuck procedure. Liposuction can be used during your tummy tuck to contour and enhance the overall silhouette of your body.
Who is eligible/ineligible for a tummy tuck?
Essentially, anyone who has a degree of excess skin is a candidate for either a mini or full tummy tuck, depending upon how much skin there is to be removed.
A tummy tuck is not suitable for people who are overweight. However, it is a great procedure for those who are at their target weight but have excess skin which unfortunately will not shift no matter how much exercise they do.
Are tummy tucks safe?
All types of surgery have inherent risks attached but, fortunately, these risks are very small for the overwhelming majority of patients. Cosmetic surgery, such as tummy tuck surgery, is significantly safer than other types of surgery, to begin with.
Before any surgery takes place, your general medical health will be assessed and blood tests taken (if needed) to make sure that any planned surgery is as safe as possible.
Do patients drop several clothing sizes after a tummy tuck?
The effects of a tummy tuck will have a significant effect upon the overall shape of your body and this will likely result in changes in clothing size.
How long do results of a tummy tuck last?
Provided your weight doesn’t significantly change and you don’t get pregnant and have further children, the effects should last indefinitely.
What is the cost of a tummy tuck based on?
The cost is essentially based on three factors:
The hospital fee. This is the fee that the hospital charges where your surgery takes place. It’s their fee for using their facilities. The surgical fee. This is how much your surgeon charges for carrying out the surgery. The anaesthetic fee. This is how much the anaesthetic doctor who works with your surgeon charges for your surgery.
Are there alternatives to a tummy tuck?
If you have significant excess skin, other than living with it, there really is no other alternative for getting rid of the skin.
When considering a tummy tuck, it’s vital to speak to a trusted specialist. Visit Mr Abood’s profile to arrange your consultation and get his expert advice.