Overview

Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while repairing and tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles. It is particularly beneficial following pregnancy, significant weight loss or ageing when loose skin and muscle laxity cannot be improved through diet and exercise alone.

The procedure restores a flatter, firmer abdominal profile while enhancing body proportions and improving overall confidence. Every treatment plan is tailored to the patient's individual anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Surgery

Why Choose a Tummy Tuck?

Abdominoplasty offers long-lasting improvements in abdominal contour and is ideal for patients seeking a smoother, firmer midsection.

  • Removes excess loose abdominal skin.
  • Tightens stretched or separated abdominal muscles.
  • Creates a flatter, firmer abdominal profile.
  • Improves waist definition.
  • Reduces discomfort caused by excess skin folds.
  • Enhances body confidence.
  • Produces natural-looking, long-lasting results.
  • Can be combined with liposuction where appropriate.

Who is a Good Candidate?

A tummy tuck is suitable for healthy adults who have excess abdominal skin, muscle separation or weakened tissues that have not improved with exercise. Many patients seek surgery following pregnancy or major weight loss.

The best candidates are close to their ideal body weight, do not smoke (or are willing to stop before surgery) and have realistic expectations about the procedure and recovery.

Personalised Treatment

Consultant Plastic Surgeon Kevin McGarry carefully assesses your abdominal shape, skin quality and muscle tone to create a personalised treatment plan designed to achieve balanced, natural-looking results.

The Consultation Process

Your consultation provides the opportunity to discuss your concerns, understand the procedure and determine whether tummy tuck surgery is the most appropriate treatment for your goals.

During your consultation we will:

  • Discuss your aesthetic goals.
  • Assess abdominal skin and muscle laxity.
  • Review previous pregnancies or weight loss.
  • Evaluate your medical history.
  • Explain the surgical procedure.
  • Discuss expected results and recovery.
  • Create your personalised treatment plan.

Surgical Technique

Preparation

The abdomen is carefully marked before surgery to determine the amount of skin to be removed and the planned scar placement.

Muscle Repair

Separated abdominal muscles are repaired and tightened to strengthen the abdominal wall and improve abdominal contour.

Skin Tightening

Excess skin and fat are removed before the remaining skin is tightened to create a smoother, flatter and more natural abdominal appearance.

The Procedure

Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes between two and four hours. Most patients remain in hospital overnight before returning home.

The operation generally involves:

  • General anaesthesia.
  • Removal of excess skin and fat.
  • Repair of abdominal muscles.
  • Repositioning of the belly button where necessary.
  • Placement of drains if required.
  • Application of a compression garment.
  • Post-operative follow-up appointments.