Abdomen & Body Surgery
Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty
A comprehensive tummy tuck removing both vertical and horizontal excess.
Approximate timings reflect the practice information supplied for Op. Dr. Soner Tezcan. Additional procedures, health and recovery may change the plan. Surgery, stay and activity plans are confirmed during consultation and follow-up.
What is it?
A vertical incision is added to the horizontal one to also remove side-to-side excess skin.
Who is it for?
People with both vertical and horizontal laxity after massive weight loss.
How is it done?
A midline vertical incision is added to the bikini-line incision, shaping a narrower waist.
Recovery
Approximate return to work/social life: 10–14 days. This does not mean full recovery or clearance for exercise or flying. Swelling and tissue settling may take longer and are reviewed during follow-up.
What is a fleur-de-lis tummy tuck?
Used after major weight loss when there is excess skin both vertically and horizontally. While a classic tummy tuck removes excess from top to bottom, the fleur-de-lis method also narrows the abdomen and defines the waist.
Incision
In addition to the horizontal incision below the bikini line, a vertical incision is made in the midline. The vertical incision is usually long, but can be shorter if there is less laxity; its length is decided at consultation.
Surgery and recovery
Abdominal muscle repair is performed in every patient. Surgery takes about 3–4 hours under general anaesthesia, usually with 2 nights in hospital, and drains are used. For the first 1–2 weeks you walk slightly bent forward and sleep with knees bent. Return to work takes about 10–14 days and a compression garment is worn for about 4–6 weeks. The first massage session is done in Istanbul; after returning home, 2 sessions a week are continued for 6 weeks.
Aftercare and follow-up
- One or two checks are planned before departure according to the return date. A flight report is provided; fitness and timing for travel require medical assessment. Anti-embolism stockings form part of the care plan.
- Antibiotics, pain relief, stomach protection and antibiotic ointment are used only as prescribed. Dose, application site and duration are individual; do not start treatment independently.
- Absorbable sutures are used; routine stitch removal is not planned. Scar cream is started after wound closure at the time advised by the surgeon.
- Drains are used for lifts and procedures involving liposuction; removal is determined by the surgeon during follow-up.
- A compression garment or suitable support/band is used for approximately 4–6 weeks, as individually instructed.
- Massage after lifts and liposuction is arranged only under the surgeon’s direction. One session is organised at the hotel or follow-up when appropriate; the timing and treatment area are specified by the surgeon. After returning home, patients are asked to continue with 2 sessions a week for 6 weeks.
- General activity plan: gentle walking in week one; light exercise after week two; regular sport after month one; weight lifting after month two. Every stage requires review and surgeon clearance; some procedures need longer restrictions.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the vertical incision?
Usually long, but it can be shorter with less laxity; it is decided at consultation.
Is massage needed?
Yes. The first session is in Istanbul, then 2 sessions a week for 6 weeks after you return home.