Abdominoplasty
Abdominal tension
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About this procedure
Abdominoplasty is an aesthetic operation performed by removing excess skin and fat tissues in the abdomen and tightening the abdominal muscles. It usually solves the problem of sagging skin, which usually exists after childbirth or serious weight loss.
Who is it for?
Suitable
- Women whose abdominal skin and muscles have become lax after pregnancy and who cannot achieve sufficient results with diet and exercise alone
- People who have excess, sagging skin remaining after significant weight loss (bariatric surgery or a large-volume weight reduction)
- People with separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) whose skin has lost its elasticity
- Candidates whose body weight has been stable in recent months and who have realistic expectations
- People whose general health is suitable for surgery, who do not smoke or are willing to quit before and after the operation
- Women who are not planning a pregnancy in the near future — since a subsequent pregnancy could significantly change the outcome
May not be suitable
- People who still intend to lose significant weight or who are planning a pregnancy in the near future — in such cases the operation is postponed
- People with a high degree of obesity — abdominoplasty is not a weight-loss method; weight management is recommended first
- People with a bleeding disorder, an uncontrolled chronic illness (for example, uncompensated diabetes), or a severe cardiovascular problem
- Patients with an active infection in the abdominal area, an unhealed wound, or a skin disease
- People with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) who have not undergone a prior risk assessment
- Candidates with unrealistic expectations of a completely scar-free or "perfect" abdomen shape — a detailed consultation is recommended first
Suitability is confirmed only at a doctor's examination. Results are individual.
The process step by step
- 1
Initial consultation and discussion of expectations(30-45 minutes)
The plastic surgeon evaluates the elasticity of the abdominal skin, the degree of muscle separation (diastasis recti), and any existing scars. The patient's expectations are listened to, and the realistic limits of the outcome are explained openly.
- 2
Medical examination(1 day)
Blood tests and a general health assessment for anesthesia are carried out. Additional examinations (for example, of the cardiovascular system) are ordered if needed.
- 3
Surgical planning(1 session)
Together with the patient, the extent of the surgery (full or mini abdominoplasty), whether it will be combined with liposuction, and the location of the scar line are finalized.
- 4
Anesthesia(20-30 minutes)
In the operating room, the anesthesiologist administers general anesthesia; the patient remains asleep and pain-free throughout the procedure.
- 5
Surgery(2-4 hours)
Excess skin and fatty tissue are removed, the separated abdominal muscles are brought together with sutures (diastasis correction), and the navel is repositioned. A drain is usually placed to prevent fluid accumulation.
- 6
Initial recovery and observation(24-48 hours)
The patient is monitored in the recovery room and fitted with a compression garment. The first night is spent at the clinic or at home under close supervision.
Recovery process
Pain, swelling, and a feeling of tightness are most pronounced during this period. Walking in a slightly bent-forward posture in the first days, to reduce tension on the muscle sutures, is normal. The drain (if placed) may still be in during this time.
Restriction: Heavy lifting, standing fully upright, and returning to work are restricted during this period. The compression garment must be worn continuously.
The drain (if used) is usually removed early in this period. Walking gradually improves and swelling begins to decrease. Most patients can return to light daily activity by the end of this period.
Restriction: Sports, heavy housework, and movements that put pressure on the abdomen are not yet recommended. The compression garment continues to be worn.
The main swelling recedes, the scar gradually begins to soften, and a full return to daily activity becomes possible.
Restriction: Sports that place direct, heavy strain on the abdominal muscles (for example, ab exercises) should still be reintroduced gradually.
The scar fades in color and the fine swelling beneath the skin fully resolves, revealing the final shape. Tissues fully stabilize.
Restriction: No special restrictions; daily life and sports are fully normal.
Risks and transparency
Every surgical procedure carries risks. Transparency is the basis of trust for us.
- Swelling and blue-purple bruising — seen in nearly every patient, gradually fades
- Scarring — usually located in the lower abdomen, in a line that can be covered by underwear, though the healing pattern varies from person to person
- Possibility of a seroma (fluid accumulation under the skin) — a drain is typically placed to prevent this
- Risk of bleeding or infection (rare, but present in any surgical operation)
- Temporary, sometimes long-lasting, change in sensation (numbness) in the abdominal skin
- Risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism — one of the reasons early mobilization after surgery is important
- Possibility of asymmetry or deviation from the expected outcome, and rarely, the need for a revision operation
What does the price depend on?
- Scope of the surgery — full or mini abdominoplasty
- Whether it is combined with liposuction
- Type of anesthesia and length of surgery
- Clinic equipment and stay conditions (room, observation period)
- Surgeon's experience
- Extent of pre-operative examination/testing
Frequently asked questions
How much does abdominoplasty cost, and what does the price depend on?
The price varies depending on the scope of the surgery (full or mini abdominoplasty), whether it is combined with liposuction, the type of anesthesia, and the clinic. An exact price can only be given after an in-person consultation and examination — you can book a free consultation for this.
Is abdominoplasty painful?
Since the operation is performed under general anesthesia, no pain is felt during the procedure. Tightness and moderate pain in the first days are normal, which is managed with pain medication prescribed by the doctor.
When can I return to work after the operation?
Office-type work can usually be resumed within 2-3 weeks. For physically demanding jobs, waiting 4-6 weeks or until the doctor's approval is recommended.
Is abdominoplasty a weight-loss method?
No. Abdominoplasty removes excess skin and a limited amount of fatty tissue and tightens the muscles, but it is not a weight-loss method. Being stable and close to your target weight before the operation is recommended.
How long-lasting is the result?
Since the result is based on the skin removed and the muscles tightened, it is long-lasting, but significant future weight gain or pregnancy can change the outcome. Maintaining a stable weight is the main factor in preserving the result.
Does a scar remain after the operation?
Yes, a horizontal scar usually remains in the lower abdomen, in a line that can be covered by underwear. How visible the scar becomes depends on the body's healing pattern and fades over time.
What is the best season for abdominoplasty?
Medically, a specific season is not a requirement. Some patients prefer the autumn-winter months to comfortably conceal the compression garment and stay out of the sun.
Can abdominoplasty be performed together with liposuction?
Yes, in many cases abdominoplasty is planned together with liposuction for a more complete contouring result. Whether this is possible depends on an individual assessment.
What is diastasis recti (muscle separation), and does abdominoplasty correct it?
Diastasis recti is the separation of the muscles in the middle of the abdomen as a result of pregnancy or weight changes. During abdominoplasty these muscles are brought together with sutures so that the abdominal wall appears firmer and flatter.
How long should I wait after pregnancy before having abdominoplasty?
In general, waiting at least 6-12 months is recommended for the body to recover after delivery and for breastfeeding to finish. The exact timeframe depends on individual health status.
When is the drain removed?
The drain is usually removed by the doctor 1-2 weeks after the operation, once the daily drainage amount falls below a certain threshold. The timing can vary from person to person.
Next step: a free consultation
Fill in the form — our team will contact you within 24 hours with the right specialist, a personal plan and an exact price.
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- The right specialist for you
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3 certified specialists perform this procedure
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