Abdominal & Torso
Tummy Tuck | Abdominal Muscle Repair
Select a procedure above to view full details
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to:
Remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen.
Tighten the stretched abdominal wall or separated abdominal muscles.
Improve body contours and scars.
Different techniques exist depending on the amount of correction needed.
Why Consider a Tummy Tuck?
Achieve a flatter, smoother abdomen.
Remove or tighten stretched skin after pregnancy or major weight loss.
Improve the appearance of stretch marks in the lower abdomen.
Boost confidence in body shape.
How the Procedure Works
Standard abdominoplasty
Skin and fat between the navel and the pubic area are removed, with tightening of the abdominal wall. This leaves a low scar across the abdomen and another around the belly button.
Mini-abdominoplasty
This procedure targets only the skin below the navel. The belly button is left in place, and the scar is shorter.
Apronectomy
An old-fashioned, simple excision of redundant overhanging skin and fat. The scar runs across the lower abdomen from side to side.
Recovery & Aftercare
Hospital stay is usually 2 days.
Drains are usually placed to remove fluid and are removed after a few days.
Expect moderate pain, swelling, and some numbness. It is advised to rest with bent knees/hips to protect stitches.
Light activities are possible in 10 - 20 days. Sports and strenuous exercise should be avoided for about 6 weeks.
A compression garment helps reduce swelling and improve comfort for the first few months..
Risks & Limitations
Permanent scars, which may be more visible in some patients.
Temporary or permanent numbness in the lower abdomen.
Fluid collections (seromas), delayed wound healing, or thickened scars.
Rare risks: blood clots, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and infection. Care is taken to avoid this with support stockings, serial calf compression and low molecular weight heparin injections.
Results last well if the weight is stable, but future pregnancy or major weight changes can reduce the effect.
Abdominal Muscle Repair (Diastasis Recti Repair)
What is Abdominal Muscle Repair?
Diastasis recti is a separation of the abdominal “six-pack” muscles, often caused by pregnancy or significant weight changes. Repair surgery brings the muscles back together and strengthens the midline, restoring core support and improving the shape of the abdomen. The procedure can be performed on its own or combined with an abdominoplasty if there is also excess skin and fat.
Why Consider Diastasis Recti Repair?
Repairing the abdominal muscles can:
Restore strength and stability in the core.
Reduce the bulging of the abdominal wall.
Improve posture and back support.
Many patients also notice a flatter abdominal appearance and relief from symptoms such as poor core control or discomfort during activity. Surgery may be considered when physiotherapy has not corrected the separation.
How the Procedure Works
Open muscle repair
An incision is made in the lower abdomen to access the muscles. The rectus muscles are drawn back together by plicating the overlying rectus sheath. If needed, excess skin and fat can also be removed at the same time.
Recovery & Aftercare
Diastasis repair is carried out under general anaesthesia.
Many patients go home the same day or after one night in the hospital, though recovery may take longer if combined with a tummy tuck.
Swelling and tightness are expected at first, and a supportive garment can improve comfort during the first month.
Light activity and walking are encouraged early on, but heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for around 6 weeks.
Most people can return to light duties at 6 weeks.
Risks & Limitations
As with any surgery, there are risks. General complications include bleeding, infection, scarring, and delayed wound healing. Specific risks of abdominal muscle repair include:
Seroma (fluid collection under the skin).
Haematoma (blood pooling under the skin).
Skin necrosis (small areas of skin losing blood supply, more likely in larger repairs).
Wound breakdown or poor healing, especially in smokers or those with health issues.
Nerve damage or altered sensation in the abdominal wall (temporary or, rarely, permanent).
Post-operative pain may persist longer than expected.
Recurrence of diastasis (the gap reappearing, particularly after pregnancy or heavy strain).
Unsatisfactory cosmetic result, such as residual bulging, uneven contour, or skin laxity.
Contact us.
Interested in the services?
Feel free to get in touch with any enquiries or questions. Our team would be happy to help!