A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes excess skin and fat, and tightens your abdominal muscles
If you’re looking to achieve a flatter, firmer abdomen after weight loss, pregnancy or ageing, a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) could help you regain confidence in your body.
Part of Circle Health Group, The Blackheath Hospital in Greenwich offers expert cosmetic surgery in a safe, supportive environment. Our experienced consultants perform tummy tuck procedures tailored to your body and goals, ensuring results that look natural and feel comfortable.
Whether you want to remove loose skin after pregnancy, repair weakened muscles, or refine your waistline, we provide expert guidance, transparent pricing, and outstanding aftercare at every step.
A tummy tuck, also called an abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the underlying muscles of the abdominal wall. The result is a flatter, firmer, and more toned midsection.
Over time, factors such as pregnancy, ageing, and significant weight loss can cause skin and muscle laxity that cannot be corrected through exercise alone. A tummy tuck can help by:
The procedure is often chosen by both men and women seeking a smoother silhouette and greater comfort in clothing. It’s also a popular with people after pregnancy or significant weight loss.
During your consultation, your surgeon will explain the different types of tummy tuck procedures available and recommend the one that best suits your needs.
A reverse tummy tuck targets the upper part of the abdomen rather than the lower. Instead of making an incision along the bikini line (as in a standard tummy tuck), your surgeon makes an incision just below the breasts or under the breast fold. Through this incision, excess skin from the upper abdomen is lifted and tightened.
This technique is ideal for patients who have loose skin above the navel, often as a result of ageing, significant weight loss, or previous abdominal surgery.
A reverse tummy tuck can also be combined with procedures such as a breast lift or breast reduction, allowing the surgeon to address both areas during a single operation.
Recovery is similar to that of a standard tummy tuck, with most people returning to light activity within two weeks. Your consultant will provide detailed aftercare instructions to support your healing and ensure the best possible cosmetic outcome.
An extended tummy tuck is a more comprehensive version of the traditional abdominoplasty. It not only removes excess skin and fat from the front of the abdomen but also extends around the sides of the waist and, in some cases, to the lower back.
This approach is particularly beneficial for patients who have experienced significant weight loss and are left with loose or hanging skin around the flanks and hips.
The extended tummy tuck reshapes the entire midsection, improving definition and contour while tightening both the abdominal muscles and surrounding tissues.
Because the surgery is more extensive, recovery can take a little longer, but the results are often dramatic, producing a smoother, more balanced appearance.
The cost of a tummy tuck at The Blackheath Hospital depends on the type of procedure, its complexity, and whether it’s combined with other treatments.
Your quotation will include:
Your initial consultation will be charged separately, along with any tests needed at the time.
Before surgery, you’ll receive a clear, written estimate outlining every aspect of your treatment, with no hidden costs.
Private medical insurance usually does not cover cosmetic abdominoplasty, but self-pay and finance options are available, allowing you to spread the cost through manageable monthly payments.
A tummy tuck is performed under general anaesthetic and usually takes between two and three hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
During the procedure, your surgeon makes an incision across the lower abdomen, typically along the bikini line where it can be discreetly concealed by underwear. The skin and fat are then lifted to expose the underlying abdominal muscles, which are tightened using sutures to create a firmer abdominal wall.
Excess skin is carefully trimmed away, and the remaining skin is repositioned smoothly over the abdomen before being sutured into place. In most cases, the belly button is repositioned to achieve a natural appearance.
Your incision will be dressed, and a small drain may be placed temporarily to remove any excess fluid. You’ll usually be able to go home within one to two days, depending on your recovery and the extent of the procedure.
A tummy tuck procedure typically takes two to three hours, though this can vary based on the technique used and whether it’s combined with other surgeries, such as liposuction or breast contouring.
Your care team will discuss the expected duration and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure during your pre-operative appointment.
When performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon, tummy tucks are generally very safe. However, as with all surgery, there are potential risks, including bleeding, infection, fluid accumulation (seroma), or delayed wound healing.
At The Blackheath Hospital, patient safety is our top priority. All tummy tucks are performed by fully accredited consultant plastic surgeons in modern operating theatres equipped with advanced monitoring technology.
Your consultant will explain all potential risks and benefits during your consultation, ensuring you have realistic expectations and feel confident about your decision. You’ll also receive detailed aftercare instructions to support safe, effective healing.
A tummy tuck can significantly reduce or remove stretch marks, especially those located below the navel. When excess skin is removed during the procedure, any stretch marks on that skin are also removed.
Stretch marks above the navel may not be completely eliminated but can become less noticeable as the remaining skin is tightened and smoothed. Your consultant will discuss what kind of improvement you can realistically expect during your consultation.
Recovery time varies depending on the type of tummy tuck and your individual healing rate. In general:
You may experience some swelling, bruising, and tightness in the first few days, which will gradually subside. Your surgeon will provide a supportive compression garment to help reduce swelling and protect the treated area as it heals.
Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your recovery and ensure you’re healing as expected.
It’s important to avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise until your surgeon confirms it’s safe to do so. Most patients find that within a few months, they are able to enjoy their full results with improved confidence and comfort.
Patients choose The Blackheath Hospital for tummy tuck surgery because of our expert consultants, exceptional care and modern facilities.
As part of Circle Health Group, we combine surgical precision with compassionate, personalised support.
At our Greenwich hospital, you’ll benefit from:
From your first consultation to your final follow-up, our dedicated team is here to ensure your experience is smooth, professional, and fully focused on your wellbeing and confidence.
To book a consultation to discuss abdominoplasty with a cosmetic surgeon near you, use our online booking system, or give us a call and one of our dedicated advisors will help you find an appointment time that suits you.
Reception: 020 8318 7722
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