Plastic Surgery

Tummy Tuck

Tightening of loose abdominal skin — and the muscle wall when needed — after pregnancy or major weight change.

public_images/ps-tummy-tuck.jpg
Procedure time
Usually 2–5 hours
Anaesthesia
General anaesthesia
Time in Istanbul
Typically 7–10 nights
Back to desk work
Often after 2–3 weeks
Overview

About Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes loose skin and some fat from the lower abdomen and, when the muscles have separated, repairs the abdominal wall. It leaves a scar low across the abdomen, usually hidden by underwear.

It is often considered after pregnancy or significant weight loss, when skin no longer springs back. A smaller version, a mini tummy tuck, treats only the area below the belly button.

Suitability

Who it may be suitable for

  • Loose skin on the abdomen that exercise cannot improve
  • Separation of the abdominal muscles after pregnancy
  • A stable weight and no plans for further pregnancy
  • Good general health, a stable weight and no smoking, or willingness to stop

These are general points only. Whether an operation is suitable for you is decided by the treating surgeon after an in-person examination, your medical history and any tests they request.

The process

How it works

  1. Remote review

    You share photos and your medical history. The surgeon gives a first opinion on whether the operation is suitable and what it could realistically achieve.

  2. Consultation in Istanbul

    The surgeon examines you in person, confirms the plan, explains the risks and arranges pre-operative tests before you give consent.

  3. Surgery

    Under general anaesthesia, excess skin is removed, the muscles are repaired if needed and the belly button is repositioned.

  4. Check before you fly

    The surgeon reviews healing before you travel home, and you receive written aftercare instructions and remote follow-up.

Aftercare

What to expect and aftercare

  1. First days

    You usually stay in hospital for at least one night. Pain is controlled with medication, you start walking early to protect against clots, and drains may be in place.

  2. Weeks 1–2

    Drains and stitches are removed as healing allows. You wear a compression garment and avoid lifting and strenuous activity.

  3. Weeks 4–6

    Most people return gradually to exercise with the surgeon’s approval. Swelling is still present and can vary from day to day.

  4. Months 3–12

    Swelling settles and scars slowly fade and flatten. The final shape is usually judged after several months.

Timelines vary between people. Always follow the aftercare instructions from your treating clinic.

Good to know

Risks and considerations

  • The scar is long and permanent, running from hip to hip in a full tummy tuck.
  • Fluid collection (seroma) under the skin is a known complication and may need draining.
  • A future pregnancy can stretch the muscles and skin again.
  • All surgery carries risks, including bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, blood clots and reactions to anaesthesia.
  • Scars are permanent. Surgeons place them where they are easiest to hide, but how they mature varies from person to person.
  • Smoking and nicotine products significantly increase the risk of wound-healing problems. Most surgeons ask you to stop for several weeks before and after surgery.
  • Results take months to settle and cannot be guaranteed. Some people need a revision procedure.
FAQ

Common questions

Is a tummy tuck a way to lose weight?

No. It removes loose skin and tightens the abdomen. It works best at a stable weight you can maintain.

Can I have children after a tummy tuck?

Yes, but pregnancy may undo some of the result. Many surgeons recommend waiting until you have finished having children.

How long should I stay in Istanbul after surgery?

It depends on the operation. Many are planned around one to two weeks so the surgeon can check you and remove stitches or drains before you fly. Flying soon after surgery raises the risk of blood clots, so your surgeon confirms when it is safe to travel.

How is the cost decided?

The price depends on the operation the surgeon recommends after examining you, the hospital stay and any combined procedures. You receive a written, itemised quote before anything is booked, with no obligation to proceed.

Related treatments
Next step

Talk to a coordinator about Tummy Tuck

Share your details and a coordinator will reply with clear next steps. There is no obligation to proceed.

This page is general information, not medical advice; a treating clinician confirms your plan after assessment. ELAVIA Global coordinates care; clinical evaluation and treatment are delivered by independent, licensed partner facilities and their specialists.