All You Need To Know About Tummy Tuck Surgery

Tummy Tuck

Removes folds of skin and tightens stretched skin and muscles
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Body Surgery Procedures

A Tummy Tuck, also known as an Abdominoplasty, is an operation to remove excess fat and skin from the tummy (abdomen) and tighten the abdominal muscles.

When you visit Kingsbridge Private Hospital you’ll not only be visiting one of Northern Ireland’s leading five star cosmetic surgery facilities, you will benefit from outstanding customer care, including access to our Private ONE2ONE Private Patient Advisor who will answer any queries you may about our services and the finance packages available for cosmetic surgery.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A Tummy Tuck removes folds of skin left behind after losing a lot of weight and tightens stretched skin and muscles after pregnancy.

Tummy Tuck surgery is not a treatment for weight control or a substitute for regular physical activity and a healthy, balanced diet. It will not stop you from gaining weight in the future.

If you require information on maintaining a balanced diet, you may wish to book an appointment with one of our Dietitians.

It is important to note that the results of a Tummy Tuck are permanent as long as you maintain a healthy weight after surgery.

What should I do to prepare for a Tummy Tuck?

It’s important not to rush into the decision to have cosmetic surgery. You should discuss your options with your GP or book at appointment at our Private GP service so you fully understand the results you should expect.

If you smoke you will be asked to stop, as smoking increases your risk of getting a chest and wound infection, which can slow your recovery time. Your surgeon may choose not to carry out the procedure if you smoke and they feel there is a risk.

Your surgeon may also advise you to:

Lose excess weight - a Tummy Tuck will give the best results if you are the correct weight for your height.
Stop taking the contraceptive pill six weeks before surgery, to reduce the risk of blood clotting (thrombosis)

It is usual to have your tummy tuck under a general anaesthetic so you will be asleep during the procedure. You will be asked to fast, typically for about six hours beforehand. Very occasionally, certain types of Tummy Tuck can be done under local anaesthesia and sedation. Your surgeon will discuss your options with you at your appointment.

Photographs may be taken, so that the results of your Tummy Tuck can be compared with your original appearance.

You may be asked to wear compression stockings to help prevent blood clots forming in the veins in your legs. You may need to have an injection of an anticlotting medicine called heparin as well as, or instead of, wearing compression stockings.

What happens during a Tummy Tuck?

The type of Tummy Tuck you have will depend on how much skin and fat you need to have removed. Your Surgeon will explain which type is most suitable for you at your initial consultation. The operation may take up to three hours.

There are three types of Tummy Tucks:

Standard Tummy Tuck

During surgery a long cut in your abdomen will be made above the pubic area (in women this is known as the bikini line). Your Surgeon may also make a second cut to remove your belly button from the surrounding skin. Stretched or torn muscles will be pulled together and stitched in place. Excess fat will be removed and the skin will be pulled down and repositioned with your belly button in the correct position. Your excess skin is then removed.

Cuts from the surgery are closed with stitches and your lower abdomen is firmly strapped with bandages. It’s likely you will have a scar around your belly button and a long curved scar on your abdomen above your pubic area. You can usually hide these scars with your underwear, but this may not always be possible.

Mini Tummy Tuck

With a Mini Tummy Tuck the excess skin and fat from below your belly button is removed, leaving a long curved scar on your abdomen above your pubic area. Your belly button remains in place.

Extended Tummy Tuck

Excess skin and fat from your abdomen and lower back is removed. You will have a scar around your belly button and a long curved scar on your abdomen above your pubic area, and around your lower back.

What to expect after your Tummy Tuck

You may need to stay at Kingsbridge Private Hospital for up to three days after your surgery depending on your recovery time.

You will need to rest until the effects of the anaesthetic have passed and you may need pain relief to help with any discomfort as the anaesthetic wears off. Our Nursing staff are on hand to care for you and provide pain relief as required.

You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home when you are discharged. It is recommended that you try to have a friend or relative stay with you for the first 24 hours after your Tummy Tuck procedure.

General anaesthesia temporarily affects your coordination and reasoning skills, so you must not drive, drink alcohol, operate machinery or sign legal documents for 24 hours afterwards. If in any doubt about driving, contact your motor insurer so that you're aware of their recommendations, and always follow your Surgeon’s advice.

You may need to wear an elasticated garment to help reduce swelling and improve comfort for the first several weeks following your surgery. You may also be advised to keep your knees bent when you’re in bed to prevent putting strain on your stitches and may find it difficult to stand up straight at first.

Stitches will be removed after one or two weeks, or you may have dissolvable stitches. The length of time your dissolvable stitches will take to disappear depends on what type you have. Your Surgeon will tell you how long this may be and whether you have any stitches that may need to be removed.

Recovering from a Tummy Tuck

It usually takes about six weeks to make a full recovery from a Tummy Tuck, but this can vary between individuals and the technique used, so it's important to follow advice from your Surgeon. You should be able to return to work about three or four weeks after your operation.

If you need pain relief, you can take over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine and if you have any questions, ask your Pharmacist for advice.

You may be advised to wear a support garment for up to six weeks after your surgery. It’s likely you will have some tightness around your healing wounds.

In most cases, you should be able to do light activities comfortably about 10 days after your surgery. Most people can return to work after two to four weeks, but it is advised that you do not do any vigorous activity for at least six weeks following your procedure. Your Surgeon will give you specific instructions depending on the type of operation you have.

Risks associated with Tummy Tuck surgery

As with every procedure, there are some risks associated with surgery of this kind. Risks are evaluated on an individual basis by your Surgeon prior to having the procedure. This will be discussed with you before you make a decision.

Side-effects of Tummy Tuck surgery

Side-effects are the unwanted but mostly temporary effects you may get after having your procedure.

Side-effects of a Tummy Tuck include:

pain and bruising – usually lasting at least a few days.
swelling – this may not completely subside for several months.
scarring – scars will usually fade over time, but won't completely disappear.
numbness of your skin over your abdomen – the skin below your new belly button may be numb for several months, but this numbness will gradually disappear.

Complications of a Tummy Tuck include:

infection - this may need antibiotic treatment to reduce the infection.
bleeding under your skin (haematoma) – this may need surgery to stop the bleeding and drain the area.
seroma – a collection of fluid around your wound that may need to be removed using a needle.
numbness – this is usually temporary, but can be permanent.
unusually red or raised scars – these may take several months to settle and fade.

Do you have a question about Tummy Tuck surgery?

If so, you can book a free, confidential chat with a Private ONE2ONE Patient Adviser at Kingsbridge Private Hospital to discuss the various procedures available (Mini Tummy Tuck, Standard Tummy Tuck or Extended Tummy Tuck), finance packages and the benefits of having surgery at Kingsbridge Private Hospital.

If you would like to book an appointment or require further information on the available options, please do not hesitate to contact our private patient booking team via our online enquiry form.

Alternatively, email Kingsbridge Cosmetic Clinic

Tel 028 9042 3200

Treatment Locations

Kingsbridge Private Hospital

811-815 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7GX

Kingsbridge North West

Church Hill House Main Street Ballykelly BT49 9HS

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Patient Testimonials

"I am extremely happy with the treatment, and with the standard of care I have received. There is no doubt as to whether this treatment is highly effective. I have had several cosmetic surgeries (although not on my face) but can say in comparing the results of the Spring Thread procedure with other less invasive treatments, the results are more in keeping with the surgical procedures I have had." Spring Thread Patient Review, Kinsgbridge Cosmetic Surgery Clinic Patient

"I had surgery here at the weekend and I can't recommend this place highly enough. They took great care of me and kept me at ease throughout my stay. The staff were brilliant, really friendly and chatted away and the food was top class. This hospital was better than any hotel I wonder could I book a weekend away in it when I fully recover?" Mr McGinnity, Kingsbridge Patient

"EXCELLENT - Had surgery today under the very caring Dr Stewart and her team. I cannot thank her enough for all she’s done for me over the past few months. Everything was explained to me in detail and all my care was considerate, professional and compassionate. Everyone I’ve met today has been beyond kind from Will the Anaesthetist, the Nurses and theatre staff, the catering staff - there has been no exception. Thank you all for taking care of me so well today - look forward to getting home tomorrow x" Mrs McAleavey, Kingsbridge Patient

"Hospital spotless and clean. Staff were so caring couldn’t do enough for me and made sure I was comfortable. Give the place 10 out of 10. Had surgery yesterday and treatment was first class" Ms Demirtas, Kingsbridge Patient

"Their service was excellent and convenient location!" Ms Kneale, Kingsbridge Patient

"Just received surgery at this hospital and I couldn't have been made to feel any more comfortable from the minute I stepped in until the minute I left. All the staff are wonderful and so friendly I will highly recommend this hospital to everyone" Ms McGivern, Kingsbridge Patient

"Had eye surgery here twice for cataracts and lens replacement. Super smooth service from start to finish. Very happy" Ms Jones, Kingsbridge Patient

"As hospitals go this one is pretty amazing! Had surgery with Mr Molloy at the end of October and have another one the end of this month. Mr Molloy is a gentleman who puts you at ease right away and ensured my last procedure went smoothly! From start to finish all the hospital staff go above and beyond to make your stay as comfortable and stress free as possible. The facilities are brilliant with the rooms spacious and modern to recover in. Keep up the good work!" Ms Roulston, Kingsbridge Patient

"My mother had a total hip replacement surgery. We stayed for three days and were discharged today. Honestly, words can't describe the quality of the job and care they do. The doctors Roger Wilson, Sherman, David, the nurses Susan, Sinead, Siobhan, Andrea, the catering staff who provided customised halal food, and the remaining team whose names I cannot remember were the kindest, nicest, politest, the most caring, professional and pleasant people we have ever come across in healthcare environment. These are true gems and real stars. We are indebted to their treatment.
They are 7 star people. We love you!" Mr Yourish, Kingsbridge Patient

"Great friendly staff the nurses go way and beyond. The hospital is spotless, and the service is second to none." Ms Croke, Kingsbridge Patient

"Currently just back from recovery on the ward. I have just had ACL reconstructive surgery on my left knee. What can I say? This place is brilliant. I arrived at 8.35am, taken to the ward at 8.45am (my admission time was 9am). Tended to by a lovely Nurse. Dr Roger Wilson spoke to me around 9.45am, in Theatre for 10am, recovery for 11.10am and now currently back on ward. These guys are awesome. From the consultant to anaesthetist to nurses to cater assistants. Absolutely brilliant. Thank you so much. I am so grateful to everyone at Kingsbridge for the service." Mr McNicholl, Kingsbridge Patient

"I just had a total hip replacement done by Mr Molloy. He made me feel totally at ease (a real gentleman). I had 1st class treatment and as for the staff they couldn’t do enough for me. My experience was excellent from the time I arrived until the day I left for home. Thanks a million to all involved." Miss Bennett, Kingsbridge Patient

"Excellent experience with Kingsbridge Hospital, my dad had a day procedure here recently and not only did he receive fantastic care, but so did myself and my mum. The staff were so understanding and without saying anything could see I was looking after my mum also who has dementia, they went above and beyond to make the time spent waiting on my Dad as pleasant and stress free as possible, I will never forget the extra mile they went to, to support us. Many thanks x" Ms Forde, Kingsbridge Patient

"I have just been discharged from Kingsbridge today after surgery and was in for 3 days. From start to finish my experience was excellent. From catering staff up to senior nurses and doctors they were all fantastic and made my stay a positive experience. As a nurse myself I probably have high expectations of care and I certainly experienced the best of care in Kingsbridge who have staff they should be proud off. Great teamwork." Ms Armstrong, Kingsbridge Patient

"I recently had my gall bladder removed. All of the staff I had to deal with were excellent and professional. It was the best treatment I have ever received." Ms Burrows, Kingsbridge Patient

"I got my tonsils out yesterday, all the staff were so pleasant and nothing was too much for them. I really did receive one to one care. They just had so much time for me. The food was lovely and the staff from the kitchen where first class. Glad I received my surgery here." Miss Wright, Kingsbridge Patient

"The service and staff are first class. Had my cataract operation done on the 20th of January and I would like to thank all the staff of this fantastic hospital for giving me my life back. You are all a credit to your profession. Excellent service and I would highly recommend you. Once again thank you so much and I am truly grateful to you all." Mr Doolan, Kingsbridge Patient

"Amazing 5-star hospital. Have had other surgery here before on my back.
Yesterday's was a neck disc replacement operation. I would highly recommend this hospital like a hotel manner. Thanks again guys." Mr Phillips, Kingsbridge Patient

"I recently got an MRI scan at Kingsbridge and was very impressed with how simple the process was and how little time I had to wait. The staff were friendly, and it was an all-round pleasant experience." Mr Sharkey, Kingsbridge Patient

"Can’t praise Kingsbridge Private Hospital enough!! I had an operation a couple of weeks ago and I was so well looked after. My surgeon Mr Rashid was fantastic, and the nursing staff was also fabulous. I found they communicated very well to each other, so everyone knew when my meds were due, my allergies etc. They were so kind, so lovely, constantly checked to see how I was i.e. my temperature etc. The food was fabulous and the catering staff very helpful having had an operation were very happy to accommodate ... Thank you to all!" Ms Cheong, Kingsbridge Patient

"Staff very friendly and very efficient. Surgeon and surgery top class. Big thanks to the Nurses for all their care and patience" Mr Howard, Kingsbridge Patient

"I was in your facility yesterday for a day procedure (operation on my left arm). I wanted to write and express how impressed I was with the facilities and more importantly the staff on the Ward.

Everyone was excellent, and I mean excellent, i don't normally write congratulatory e-mails so this is high praise in my view. The Senior nurse was excellent, as was the Theatre nurse and the anaesthetist. Even the assistants that helped with catering and other duties. All came together to form a great impression of the establishment." Jason Carpal Tunnel Surgery, Kingsbridge Patient