Tummy Tuck UK

Tummy Tuck Surgery – Abdominoplasty London United Kingdom

• Unhappy with your overhanging belly or sagging tummy skin?
• Infections or Skin chafing under your belly causing discomfort?
• Suffering post-pregnancy issues like back pain or some incontinence?

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A Tummy Tuck procedure or Abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that can improve the appearance, shape and profile of your abdominal area. The treated area includes the belly and waist, helping to reduce fat and excess, loose or saggy skin. The aim of Abdominoplasty Surgery is to remove excess, sagging tummy skin but it may also have other benefits like reducing backpain or incontinence.

Full Abdominoplasty Surgery can also include repair of split tummy muscles post-pregnancy (Diastasis Recti) or a hernia. Mr Mark Gittos is a leading tummy tuck plastic surgeon who specialises in Abdominoplasty surgery or Mummy Makeover (Breast & Tummy Surgery).

Download Mr Mark Gittos’ Guide to Tummy Tuck Surgery – Abdominoplasty

Watch Mr Gittos explain Tummy Tuck Surgery

What are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck Procedure?

• Smoother, Firmer, Flatter or Sculpted Stomach Area
• Greater Abdominal Muscle Control (Improved Core Strength)
• More Clothing Options
• and You’ll benefit from Improved Confidence

Tummy Tuck Before and After Photos

CLICK HERE to see the Before and After Photo Gallery for Tummy Tuck Surgery by Mr Mark Gittos

You can See more of our past happy patient photos who have had Tummy Tuck Surgery when you come for a consultation at Mr Gittos’ London Clinic.

What Can I Expect During Tummy Tuck Surgery

A full Tummy Tuck procedure requires a horizontal incision in the area of the pubic hairline. The shape and length of your incision line will determine the degree of correction necessary.

A General Anaesthesia will assist your comfort during Tummy Tuck surgery. Skin is separated from the abdominal wall. The surgeon then draws the muscle and tissue together with stitches. This will narrow your waistline and strengthen the abdominal wall. It can also help correct split abdominal muscles. Sutures, skin adhesives, tapes or clips close the skin incisions from your Tummy Tuck.

SIX Different Types of Tummy Tucks (Abdominoplasty)

There are many types of tummy surgery – each designed for different body shapes, concerns and amounts of excess skin:

• Mini Tummy Tuck – removes a small pouch of skin usually after pregnancy or minor weight loss – when a ‘Skin Only’ Repair is needed.
• Full Tummy Tuck – removes an overhang of skin and repairs abdominal muscles – typically after pregnancy (the most popular Abdominoplasty Surgery – the classic from Ivor Pitanguy))
• Extended Tummy Tuck – removes a large overhang of excess skin with an incision from hip to hip or beyond – usually for significant weight loss patients (Extended Abdominoplasty)
• Belt Lipectomy or Circumferential Abdominoplasty – the incision is made right around the abdomen and removes a large tyre of excess skin and fat – use for massive weight loss patients (Circumferential Abdominoplasty)
• Reverse Tummy Tuck is where the incision is made under the breasts and excess skin is pulled upwards. Quite rarely performed but has been done typically in conjunction with a breast reduction or lift with acceptable results. The right patient selection criteria is absolutely critical – this Reverse Abdominoplasty is rarely performed by surgeons.
• Fleur De Lis (FDL) or Vertical Tummy Tuck – the incision is made around the abdomen like a belt lipectomy with an additional vertical incision in the front to remove even more excess skin in large massive weight loss patients

Recovery after Tummy Tuck Surgery

Post-op medication will minimise any pain after the operation. You’ll need to wear a compression garment up to 6 weeks or longer after your surgery to enhance your results. There are many options for Tummy Tuck post-surgery compression garments. Your Surgeon’s team can help you choose the best one for your body and procedure.

The final results may be obscured by swelling and your inability to stand upright until internal healing is complete. The swelling will begin to minimise within the first two weeks and will continue to improve throughout your recovery.

Be sure to follow your Surgeon’s instructions after surgery to minimise your scars. Don’t do too much too soon!

How long does it take to Recover from Abdominoplasty Surgery?

Abdominoplasty Surgery recovery time depends on the extent of your procedure. A mini tummy tuck has a shorter recovery time than a full abdominoplasty that may include liposuction. It can usually take up to 2 weeks to resume office work and 3-4 weeks to return to more physical activities like exercise.

The general rule, however, is that you should allow 4-6 weeks for recovery following your abdominoplasty surgery. Scar maturation often takes longer, up to a year or more. Be sure you wear your garment as instructed and take advantage of the aftercare we provide to assist you during your healing and recovery.

You will need to work with your Surgeon to allow for adequate and proper healing time. It is important to consult with your Surgeon before returning to daily activities such as driving, lifting and exercise. Wear your post-operative compression garments for the designated time frames.

You will need after garments. Good results depend on a collaborative approach and a healthy lifestyle. Follow instructions given to you by your Surgeon, and attend all post-operative appointments.

How much does a Tummy Tuck Cost? – Tummy Surgery Price & fees

All Abdominoplasty Surgery is customised and Mr Gittos will give you a price for surgery depending on the specific type of procedure you are having, the hospital you attend and the length of your stay.

After your initial consultation, you will be given a detailed quote. This will include a Surgeon’s fee, Anaesthetist fee, Surgical Assistant fee (if req)  and the hospital fees. We can also provide information on Tummy Tuck Health Insurance and different methods of payment.

Tummy Tuck FAQs – Questions about Abdominoplasty

Do I need a Mini or Full Tummy Tuck?

• A mini tummy tuck is ideal for someone at normal body weight, with a small, lower belly overhang called a pooch. If you have excess fat or saggy skin above your belly button, lost a lot of weight, or lost abdominal muscle strength that may have separated as a result of pregnancy you may require a FULL  tummy tuck.

Can I claim Tummy Surgery on Health Insurance?

• Your insurance will sometimes offer a minor rebate on some abdominal procedures. This is generally for reconstructive surgery or what is deemed ‘essential’ surgery. This will vary depending on the patient and the procedure required.

Complications and Risks of an Abdominoplasty

Tummy Tuck surgery incurs risks and complications like all invasive surgery. Your Surgeon will make you aware of potential complications during your consultation. This includes general anaesthesia, bleeding (Haematoma), infection, wound healing, deep vein thrombosis, scarring and numbness. Always stay informed and healthy, do not smoke before or after your procedure and read and understand your risks.

Further Reading – Medical references

• ASPS USA – Abdominoplasty Page

How to find a Tummy Tuck Surgeon in London

It is important to research your Surgeon’s qualifications and experience before deciding on your Surgeon. Make sure you feel comfortable with your surgeon and seek a second opinion.

Why Choose Mr Mark Gittos Plastic Surgeon?

You can fly overseas to find a cheaper surgeon in another country but not all Surgeons have the same experience or intensive training and testing qualifications. Be sure you learn the differences between a Plastic Surgeon, a General Surgeon, a Dermatologist, a  ‘Cosmetic Surgeon’ or other types of Doctor that may perform surgery.

Choosing a Specialist Plastic Surgeon means you are choosing an accredited recognised plastic surgeon that performs surgery in an accredited hospital. The best time to get surgery done right is the first time.

Mr Mark Gittos is a highly experienced, fully qualified specialist plastic surgeon with current FRACS membership.