Everything You Need to Know About Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Surgery

By Assoc. Prof. Dr. Övünç Akdemir

A flat and toned abdomen is a common aesthetic goal for many people. However, pregnancy, significant weight loss, aging, and genetics can leave behind excess skin, stubborn fat, and weakened abdominal muscles that no amount of diet or exercise can correct. This is where tummy tuck surgery, medically known as abdominoplasty, comes in.

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while also tightening the underlying abdominal muscles. The result is a firmer, smoother, and more aesthetically pleasing abdominal contour.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Abdominoplasty?

You may be an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck if:

You have loose or sagging abdominal skin after pregnancy or weight loss

You suffer from diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles)

You are at a stable weight and in good general health

You do not plan to become pregnant again in the near future

You do not smoke or are willing to quit before and after surgery

You have realistic expectations about the results

A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure, but rather a body-contouring surgery.

Types of Tummy Tuck Procedures

At our clinic, we offer several types of abdominoplasty procedures, each tailored to the patient's specific anatomy and goals:

Full Abdominoplasty: Involves an incision from hip to hip and around the navel; ideal for patients with significant excess skin and muscle laxity.

Mini Abdominoplasty: A smaller incision and limited muscle repair, suitable for patients with mild to moderate lower abdominal skin redundancy.

Extended or Fleur-de-lis Abdominoplasty: Used for patients who have undergone massive weight loss and have excess skin in both vertical and horizontal dimensions.

We also often combine abdominoplasty with liposuction to enhance body contouring results and address fat accumulation in adjacent areas like the flanks or lower back.

The Surgical Process

Tummy tuck surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 2 to 4 hours depending on the complexity of the case. During the operation:

1. A low horizontal incision is made above the pubic area.

2. The abdominal skin is lifted, and the muscles are tightened with sutures.

3. Excess skin and fat are removed.

4. The navel is repositioned if necessary.

5. Drains may be placed to remove fluid accumulation.

6. The incision is closed with layered sutures for optimal healing.

Recovery and Aftercare

Postoperative recovery varies, but most patients can expect:

Mild to moderate discomfort for the first few days, easily managed with prescribed medications

Wearing a compression garment for several weeks to reduce swelling and support healing

Drain removal within 5–10 days

Return to light daily activities within 1–2 weeks

Resumption of exercise and heavy lifting after 4–6 weeks, with surgeon approval

Scar maturation and fading over 6–12 months

Our clinic provides personalized follow-up protocols, including wound care instructions, scar management strategies, and regular check-ups.

Expected Results and Patient Satisfaction

Tummy tuck surgery consistently yields high levels of patient satisfaction. The results are:

A flatter and firmer abdomen

Improved waist definition

Better posture and core strength in some patients

Enhanced self-esteem and body image

With a healthy lifestyle and stable weight, results can be long-lasting.

Risks and Considerations

Like all surgeries, abdominoplasty carries certain risks, including:

Scarring

Infection or seroma (fluid collection)

Numbness or changes in skin sensation

Blood clots

Delayed wound healing

Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience—like Assoc. Prof. Dr. Övünç Akdemir—significantly reduces these risks.

Why Choose Us?

At our clinic, we combine scientific expertise, surgical precision, and artistic vision to deliver natural, safe, and satisfying outcomes. With over 20 years of experience, hundreds of successful abdominoplasties, and a personalized approach to each patient, your transformation journey is in trusted hands.

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📍 For appointments or inquiries, contact us via WhatsApp: +90 532 204 31 39

🌐 Visit: www.ovuncakdemir.com.tr

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