Tummy Tuck — Abdominoplasty

What is a tummy tuck and who is it for?

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes loose skin and excess fat from the abdomen and flattens it. Excess skin after pregnancy, major weight loss or with age, and separated abdominal muscles are the most common reasons. It is the most effective solution for loose skin that does not improve with diet and exercise.

Abdominal muscle repair

Op. Dr. Soner Tezcan repairs the abdominal muscles (diastasis recti repair) in every tummy tuck. Muscles that have separated after pregnancy or weight change are brought back together in the midline, giving a slimmer waist and a flatter, firmer abdomen.

Incision and belly button

The incision is placed below the bikini or underwear line, from hip to hip, so the scar is hidden by clothing. In a full tummy tuck the belly button is reshaped and placed in its natural position on the new skin. Dissolvable stitches are used, and scar cream is started once the wound has closed.

Surgery and hospital stay

Surgery takes about 3–4 hours under general anaesthesia, usually with 2 nights in hospital. Drains are used and removed at follow-up. If needed, a tummy tuck can be combined with liposuction of the waist and flanks.

First days and recovery

For the first 1–2 weeks you walk slightly bent forward and sleep with your knees bent to reduce tension on the incision. Return to work and social life takes about 10–14 days. A compression garment is worn for about 4–6 weeks. The first massage session is done in Istanbul at the time the doctor decides. After returning home, patients are asked to continue with 2 sessions a week for 6 weeks. Activity plan: light walks in week 1, light exercise after week 2, normal sport after the first month and weight training after 2 months, each step only after a check-up.

For patients travelling from abroad

Check-ups are scheduled before you leave and a fit-to-fly report is provided. Follow-up continues online.

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.

Abdomen & Body Surgery