Body
Tummy tuck
For loose skin and separated muscles that exercise cannot reach.
- Sample price
- $13,000 to $20,000
- Surgery
- 2 to 4 hours
- Back at a desk
- About 2 weeks
What it is
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes loose lower-belly skin and usually repairs the abdominal muscles that have separated after pregnancy. The scar runs low across the hips, inside most underwear. A mini version treats only the area below the belly button.
General anaesthesia. Done in an accredited surgical facility.
It may suit you if
- Loose skin or a bulge below the belly button after pregnancy or weight loss
- Separated muscles (diastasis) that core work has not closed
- You are at a stable weight
- You are not planning another pregnancy
It is not for
- Losing weight (it is not a weight-loss operation)
- Fat that pinches but skin that is still tight (liposuction may suit)
Recovery, week by week
- Days 1 to 5Walking slightly bent, rest at home, drains in some cases. Help at home is needed.
- Week 1 to 2Upright walking returns. Compression garment day and night.
- Weeks 2 to 3Most people are back at desk work.
- Weeks 6 to 8Lifting and core exercise return in stages.
- Months 3 to 12Swelling settles and the scar fades.
Typical timelines. Your surgeon writes your own plan and gives it to you at consult.
Risks to know about
Every operation carries risk. These are discussed in full, with how often they happen in the surgeon's own practice, at your consult:
- Fluid collecting under the skin (seroma)
- Wound healing problems, more likely in smokers
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs
- Numbness of the lower abdomen
- Risks of anaesthesia
Independent information: American Society of Plastic Surgeons, patient safety.
Your questions
How long until I can stand up straight?
Usually within the first week or two. The plan includes how to sleep, sit and move in the early days.
Will I need someone at home?
Yes, for at least the first few days. If that is hard to arrange, ask about overnight recovery options.
Can I combine it with liposuction or a breast procedure?
Often. Combining changes the time under anaesthesia and the recovery, and both are written into your plan.
Talk tummy tuck through with the surgeon.
A private 45 minute consult, in person or by video. You leave with a written plan and the full price.