A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure to tighten the abdominal wall. It is usually performed for aesthetic or reconstructive reasons – e.g., after significant weight loss, pregnancy, or age-related skin sagging.
🔍 What happens during the operation?
During a tummy tuck, the surgeon removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen and tightens the underlying muscles. The goal is a flat, toned stomach.
✅ Possible steps:
Incision: Usually horizontal above the pubic area (bikini line).
Skin and fat reduction: Excess skin and fat are removed.
Muscle tightening: The rectus abdominis muscles (diastasis rectus) are often reattached and sutured.
Navel repositioning: If a lot of skin is removed, the navel must be repositioned.
⏳ Surgery Duration & Anesthesia
Duration:
approx. 2–4 hours
General anesthesia
General anesthesia
Hospital Stay:
usually 1–3 days inpatient
🩹 Healing & Aftercare
Compression garment:
4–6 weeks of wear
Absence from work:
approx. 2–4 weeks
Break from exercise:
at least 6 weeks
Scar care:
necessary for several months
⚖️ Requirements & Suitability
Well suited for:
People after significant weight loss
Women after pregnancy
People with excess skin
⚠️ Risks & Complications
As with any surgery, there are risks:
Bruises, swelling
Infections
Impaired wound healing
Numbness (usually reversible)
Scarring (permanent, but usually unnoticeable)
💶 Costs
Cost range: Approx. €4,500–€8,000
(depending on the effort and technology)


