In Which Situations Is Abdominoplasty Performed?
Abdominoplasty is a procedure often chosen for functional and psychological reasons, rather than aesthetic ones. It is particularly useful in the following situations:
Sagging skin in the abdominal area after pregnancy
Failure of the abdominal skin to recover after significant weight loss
Loss of elasticity in the abdominal skin due to age
Separation of the abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
Inadequate support from abdominal muscles during physical activities
Feeling uncomfortable in choosing clothes
A decline in personal self-confidence
Such conditions compromise the aesthetic integrity of the abdominal area and can negatively impact an individual’s quality of life. Abdominoplasty offers a permanent and effective solution to these problems.
What Causes Abdominal Sagging?
Abdominal sagging often results from a combination of factors. As skin and muscle tissue lose elasticity with age, external factors can accelerate this process.
The main causes of abdominal sagging are:
Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the abdominal skin and muscles undergo extreme stretching. These tissues may not return to their original shape after birth.
Rapid weight gain and loss: The abdominal skin that expands with weight gain may remain in the gap after losing weight and sagging may occur.
Aging: Decreased collagen production under the skin causes loosening of skin tissue.
Genetic predisposition: Some individuals have genetically low skin elasticity, which increases the risk of sagging.
Surgical operations: Previous abdominal surgeries may cause deformities in the abdominal area.
Abdominal sagging is not only aesthetically pleasing, but can also lead to dermatological problems such as skin irritation, sweating and fungal growth.
How is Abdominoplasty Performed?
Abdominoplasty surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 2 to 4 hours. Depending on the extent of the procedure, it can be performed as a “mini abdominoplasty” or a “full abdominoplasty.”
The stages of the surgery are generally as follows:
Incision: A horizontal incision is made in the groin area. This incision is usually planned to be under underwear.
Removal of skin and fatty tissue: The skin and subcutaneous tissue are carefully removed down to the bottom of the ribs.
Muscle repair: Separated abdominal muscles (especially after birth) are stitched together in the middle and the abdominal wall is tightened.
Excess skin is removed: Sagging, cracked and excess skin is cut and removed.
The belly button is repositioned: If necessary, the belly button is moved to an aesthetically appropriate point.
Stitching and dressing: The incision is closed with aesthetic stitches, a drain is inserted and a bandage is applied.
After surgery, the patient is usually discharged the same day or the following day. Drains are removed within the first few days, and stitches are evaluated at a time determined by the doctor.
Who is Suitable for Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty is suitable for individuals who meet certain criteria. Individuals who:
Those who have sagging and looseness in the abdominal area
Women who have given birth and have separation in their abdominal muscles
Those who experience excess skin after weight loss
Those who do not have serious chronic diseases
People who can adapt to the surgery and recovery process
Individuals who do not smoke or who can quit before and after surgery
Those with realistic expectations
For women planning a pregnancy, the procedure is usually performed after birth. Additionally, for individuals with severe obesity, weight loss is recommended first.
Can Abdominoplasty and Liposuction Be Performed at the Same Time?
Yes, abdominoplasty and liposuction can often be combined in the same session. This combination eliminates sagging skin and removes excess fat from the abdomen and waist area, resulting in a more contoured, aesthetically pleasing, and balanced body contour.
Liposuction is typically performed on the flanks, waistline, or upper abdomen to achieve a slimmer appearance. This procedure preserves the body’s natural contours and more clearly achieves the surgeon’s aesthetic goals.
In such combined procedures, the recovery time may be slightly longer, but the results are much more satisfactory.
Recovery Process After Abdominoplasty
Mild pain, tightness, and fatigue are normal in the first few days after abdominoplasty. Painkillers and antibiotics prescribed by the surgeon will make this process more comfortable.
Things to consider during the recovery process:
The rest period in the first week is critical.
Walking should be done in a slightly forward-leaning position, and the abdominal area should not be strained.
Drains are usually removed within 2-5 days.
The compression garment should be used regularly for 4-6 weeks.
Stitches are checked, some dissolve on their own.
Physical activities, sports, and heavy lifting should be postponed for 6 weeks.
Most patients can return to their daily activities within 10-15 days. Full recovery and abdominal contouring may take up to 2-3 months.
Is Tummy Tuck Surgery Permanent?
When performed under appropriate conditions, a tummy tuck provides long-lasting and largely permanent results. Because excess skin and fat are permanently removed, the resulting flat, firm abdominal appearance can be maintained for many years.
However, post-operative weight gain, a new pregnancy, or changes due to aging can cause further deformations in the abdominal shape. Therefore, to maintain the longevity of your results:
Maintaining a stable weight
Balanced diet
Exercise regularly
Taking care of skin health
Habits like these are important.
Will There Be Any Scars After Surgery?
Because the incision made during abdominoplasty is designed to be hidden under underwear, it’s generally not visible from the outside. However, as with any surgical procedure, scarring is inevitable.
The visibility of scars may vary depending on the following factors:
The person’s skin type
The surgeon’s suture technique
Importance given to wound care
Sun exposure
Over time, these scars will fade to match your skin tone and become less noticeable. Silicone-based creams, sunscreens, and some dermatological treatments can help reduce their visibility.
Abdominoplasty Reviews and Before-After Experiences
The most frequently cited comments from individuals who have undergone abdominoplasty include the self-confidence that comes with a flat stomach, more comfortable clothing choices, and increased satisfaction in their social lives. Many patients also report experiencing physical benefits such as a reduction in back pain and improved posture.
Before-and-after comparisons reveal dramatic changes, especially in individuals who have given birth or lost significant weight. Instead of a saggy, stretch-marked, and flabby abdomen, a more toned, flat, and aesthetically pleasing abdomen is achieved. The results become more visible once the temporary swelling of the recovery period subsides.
Abdominoplasty Prices 2026
As of 2026, abdominoplasty prices will vary depending on the extent of the procedure, the surgeon’s experience, the techniques used, and the equipment of the center where the surgery will be performed. Furthermore, if additional procedures such as liposuction are performed along with the procedure, this will impact the cost.
While full abdominoplasty and mini abdominoplasty are priced differently in some centers, in some cases, pre-operative preparations and post-operative check-ups may also be included in the price.
Contact us now for abdominoplasty prices.
Will Sagging Occur Again After Abdominoplasty?
The flat and firm abdominal appearance achieved after abdominoplasty lasts for many years for most individuals. However, the durability of these results can be affected over time by individual lifestyle and physiological changes.
The likelihood of recurrence of sagging after surgery may increase in the following cases:
Weight gain: Excessive weight gain can lead to the re-accumulation of fat and expansion of skin in the abdominal area, which can trigger sagging again.
Pregnancy: In women who become pregnant after surgery, sagging may recur as the abdominal muscles and skin are re-stretched.
Aging: The decrease in skin elasticity over time can initiate a natural age-related loosening process.
Skin structure: Individuals with genetically weak connective tissue are more prone to sagging.
Other than these situations, the likelihood of recurrence of sagging is quite low in individuals who maintain a stable weight, eat a healthy diet, and lead a physically active lifestyle. An abdominoplasty performed with the right patient selection and surgical technique provides long-lasting results.
How Soon After Childbirth Can Abdominoplasty Be Performed?
The ideal time for postpartum abdominoplasty is to wait until the body’s hormonal balance, along with the skin and muscle structure, has returned to normal. Surgeons generally recommend waiting at least six months to a year after giving birth.
The reasons why this period is important are as follows:
The uterus returns to its former size
End of breastfeeding and balance in breast volume
Complete disappearance of edema in the body
Losing excess weight after giving birth
Recovery of abdominal muscles and skin elasticity to a certain extent
If the mother is breastfeeding, breastfeeding should be stopped completely before surgery. If a new pregnancy is planned, abdominoplasty should be postponed until after delivery, as pregnancy can further disrupt the firm abdominal structure achieved through surgery.
How Long Should a Corset Be Used After Surgery?
The use of a medical abdominal corset is crucial for a healthy recovery and to support the contouring effect after abdominoplasty. It helps control postoperative swelling, helps the skin and muscles adapt to their new positions, and protects the incision areas.
The duration of corset use is generally as follows:
For the first 2 weeks, it is used 24 hours a day, only to be removed during bathing.
It can be used only during the day, starting from the 2nd week, with the recommendation of a doctor.
The total duration of use usually ranges from 4 to 6 weeks.
This process can vary from person to person. The level of edema, the extent of the surgery, and the individual’s skin type determine how long and how tightly the brace should be worn. Proper wear and proper adherence throughout the day directly impact the quality of recovery.
Is Tummy Tuck Surgery Painful?
Because abdominoplasty involves repairing the abdominal muscles, it’s normal to experience some pain and tension, especially in the first few days. However, this pain is usually not unbearable and can be controlled with painkillers prescribed by your doctor.
Things to know about the pain process:
The first 48 hours are the period when pain is felt most intensely.
A significant reduction in pain is observed within 3-5 days.
After 1 week, most people do not feel any serious pain other than mild discomfort.
Patients who have undergone muscle repair may experience short-term pain during movements such as coughing, laughing, or standing up suddenly.
The severity of pain can vary depending on the individual’s pain threshold, the extent of the procedure, and their overall health. Proper medication, adequate rest, and adherence to your doctor’s instructions will help you get through this process comfortably and quickly.