Mediglobe collaborates with hospitals in Türkiye for Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

Abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a “tummy tuck,” is a significant surgical procedure aimed at contouring the abdominal area. It involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen, along with the tightening of the abdominal wall muscles. The procedure is often considered by people who have experienced significant weight loss, pregnancy, ageing, or changes in body shape that have left them with loose abdominal skin that does not respond sufficiently to diet and exercise. Therefore, Mediglobe recommends affordable, high-quality treatment plans. Moreover, Mediglobe is in cooperation with hospitals in Türkiye that work to European and American standards and have accreditation.

What Is Abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes and tightens the abdominal area. During surgery, a plastic surgeon may remove excess skin and fat from the lower and middle abdomen and tighten weakened abdominal muscles. Unlike liposuction, which primarily removes localised fat deposits, a tummy tuck focuses particularly on excess skin and abdominal laxity. In some cases, liposuction may be combined with abdominoplasty to improve overall body contour. A tummy tuck is not considered a treatment for obesity and should not be viewed as an alternative to weight loss. Mediglobe recommends you an Abdominoplasty package according to your needs.

Who Is a Suitable Candidate?

The ideal candidates for a tummy tuck is generally in good physical condition who are bothered by large fat deposits or loose abdominal skin that does not improve with diet or exercise. It is crucial that candidates are at a stable weight and have realistic expectations about the outcomes. However, surgery is not recommended for everyone. Individuals who intend to lose a significant amount of weight or women who plan to have future pregnancies should postpone the procedure. This is because weight fluctuations and pregnancy can reverse the results of the surgery.

Why Do People Have a Tummy Tuck?

There are several reasons why someone may consider abdominoplasty, including:

• lose or sagging abdominal skin
• Changes in the abdomen following pregnancy
• Significant weight loss resulting in excess skin
• Abdominal muscle separation or weakness
• Changes associated with ageing
• Stretch marks located on areas of skin that will be removed
• A desire to improve abdominal body contour

Understanding the Procedure:

Abdominoplasty is a major surgery typically performed under general anaesthesia. The procedure usually takes between two to five hours, depending on the complexity of the case. The most appropriate technique depends on the amount and location of excess skin and the condition of the abdominal muscles. There are two primary types of abdominoplasties, each varying in invasiveness and scope.

• Full Abdominoplasty: A full tummy tuck is the more extensive option. Our surgeon makes a long incision across the lower abdomen, typically from hip to hip, just above the pubic area. A second incision is made to free the navel from the surrounding tissue. The skin is then separated from the abdominal wall, and the vertical muscles are tightened with sutures. The skin is stretched downward, excess skin is removed, and the navel is repositioned. This procedure is ideal for patients with significant excess skin both above and below the navel.

• Partial or Mini Abdominoplasty: A partial, or mini, abdominoplasty involves a shorter incision and targets only the area below the navel. The skin is separated from the abdominal wall only in the lower region, and excess skin is removed. Muscle tightening is usually limited to the lower abdomen. This procedure is often combined with liposuction and is suitable for patients with minimal excess skin who are primarily concerned with the lower belly.

• The Role of Muscle Repair (Diastasis Recti): A critical component of abdominoplasty, particularly for women post-pregnancy, is the repair of rectus diastasis. This condition occurs when the large vertical muscles of the abdomen separate. Statistics indicate that 52% of multiparous women (those who have given birth multiple times) experience rectus diastasis, compared to 2% of primiparous women. During a tummy tuck, surgeons often perform “plication” of the rectus muscles, which involves stitching the separated muscles back together. This not only creates a flatter aesthetic appearance but also strengthens the core and can alleviate lower back pain associated with the condition.

• Extended Abdominoplasty: An extended tummy tuck may be considered when excess skin extends beyond the abdomen towards the hips or flanks. The incision can therefore extend further around the sides of the body. Our surgeon will recommend the technique based on your individual anatomy, goals and medical history. Mediglobe collaborates modern hospitals with Türkiye, experienced specialists, and recommend personalised treatment plans.

The Recovery Process

Recovery from a tummy tuck is a gradual process that requires patience. Immediately after surgery, patients can expect swelling, pain, and bruising. A compression garment or abdominal binder is usually provided to be worn for several weeks to minimize swelling and support the healing tissues.

Patients are typically advised to take about 4 to 6 weeks off work and exercise. During the initial healing phase, it is common to have difficulty standing up straight, and patients may need to walk with a slight bend at the waist to avoid putting strain on the sutures. Drains may be placed to remove excess fluid, which usually stay in for a few days to a week. Feeling will slowly return to the skin, though numbness in the abdominal area can persist for months or even years.

Risks and Complications

As with any major surgery, abdominoplasty carries risks. While serious complications are rare, patients should be aware of the following possibilities:

• Scarring: A long scar across the lower abdomen and a scar around the navel are inevitable. While these usually fade over 12 to 18 months, they may become thick or widened.
• Fluid Accumulation (Seroma): Fluid can build up under the skin, requiring drainage.
• Infection and Bleeding: There is a risk of infection and hematoma, though these are relatively uncommon.
• Skin Necrosis: In rare cases, the skin flap may not receive enough blood supply, leading to tissue death and wound healing issues. This risk is higher in smokers and patients with a high BMI.
• Blood Clots: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism are rare but serious risks associated with prolonged surgery and immobility.

Mediglobe cooperates with hospitals in Türkiye with high success rates for Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck is highly successful, with general success rates cited between 90% and 96%).

When Will I See the Final Results?

The abdomen may appear flatter and more contoured once the initial swelling begins to decrease. However, the final result does not appear immediately. Swelling can persist for several weeks or months, and scars gradually become less noticeable over time. Maintaining a stable weight and following our surgeon’s postoperative instructions can help support long-term results.

Abdominoplasty Scars:

A tummy tuck necessarily involves a surgical scar because excess skin must be removed. Our surgeon generally places the incision as low as practical so that the scar can potentially be concealed beneath underwear or swimwear. However, the exact position and appearance of the scar vary between individuals. Scar healing is influenced by factors including genetics, skin type, surgical technique, wound healing and aftercare. Our surgeon can explain what type of scar you are likely to have and how it can be managed during recovery.

Tummy Tuck After Pregnancy:

Pregnancy can stretch the abdominal skin and muscles. Some women experience persistent loose skin or separation of the abdominal muscles after pregnancy, even after returning to a healthy weight. Abdominoplasty can address some of these changes. However, it is generally advisable to consider surgery once you have completed your planned pregnancies because a subsequent pregnancy may stretch the abdominal tissues again and alter the results.

Tummy Tuck After Significant Weight Loss:

People who have lost a substantial amount of weight may be left with large amounts of excess skin around the abdomen. In these circumstances, abdominoplasty can remove some of the excess skin and improve body contour. For patients who have experienced major weight loss, the surgeon may also assess whether other body-contouring procedures are appropriate.

Abdominoplasty and Liposuction:

Abdominoplasty and liposuction are different procedures. Liposuction primarily removes localised deposits of fat. Abdominoplasty focuses on removing excess skin and tightening the abdominal area, and may include abdominal muscle repair. In selected patients, the procedures may be combined. However, combining procedures can increase the complexity and risks of surgery, so the decision should be made by our surgeon following an individual assessment.

Conclusion

Abdominoplasty is a powerful procedure that can significantly improve the shape and tone of the abdomen. Beyond aesthetics, it offers functional benefits by repairing muscle separation and removing uncomfortable excess skin. However, it is a major surgery requiring careful consideration, appropriate timing, and a thorough understanding of the recovery process. If you’re considering Tummy Tuck, consult Mediglobe team to discuss your goals and determine the best approach. A detailed contact with Mediglobe team is essential to determine if Tummy Tuck is right for you. As a result, Mediglobe offers you access to high standard and quality service to meet your treatment needs. Treatments are always client centred and providers have in-debt experience, are highly qualified, and use the latest technology, all within well maintained hospitals.

Mediglobe medical tourism packages that include airport transfers, accommodation, translation services, and aftercare. This all-in-one approach helps international patients feel more at ease, especially those who may be visiting for the first time. There is no waiting period and healthcare personal can speak different languages.

This article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation.