Abdominoplasty

Full abdominoplasty covers the entire anterior abdominal wall: excess skin and fat above and below the navel are removed, the diastasis is sutured, and the navel is repositioned. Mini-abdominoplasty is a smaller-scope procedure limited to the area below the navel, without repositioning the navel. The choice depends on the amount of excess tissue and whether diastasis is present.

Diastasis is a separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, often occurring after pregnancy. It causes the abdomen to bulge even without excess weight. During abdominoplasty the muscles are sutured together, restoring the abdominal wall and a flat contour. This is a key step in correcting post-pregnancy changes.

A vertical incision is used when there is a well-developed fat layer along the midline, significantly overstretched tissue, a thick skin fold, or pre-existing scars in the area. In other cases a horizontal incision in the bikini area is used, which is less visible.

With the standard technique, the horizontal scar sits low, in the bikini area, and is hidden by underwear or a swimsuit. Over time it fades and becomes barely noticeable. A careful suturing technique and proper scar care help produce a fine scar.

Yes, abdominoplasty is often combined with liposuction — this not only removes excess skin and sutures the muscles but also improves the contour of the waist and flanks. The surgeon determines the feasibility and scope of a combined procedure at the consultation, based on the condition of the tissues.

The compression garment is usually worn for 2–3 months. It supports the tissues, reduces swelling, and helps the skin properly conform to the new shape of the abdomen. The surgeon specifies the exact duration and wearing schedule in individual post-operative recommendations.

Most patients return to non-physical work within 2–3 weeks, once the main discomfort has subsided and the sutures are removed. Work involving physical exertion requires more time. The exact timeframe depends on the extent of surgery and the speed of recovery.

Light activity is allowed gradually, while full workouts and loading the abdominal muscles are permitted no earlier than 2–3 months, and only with the doctor's approval. Early loading interferes with the healing of the sutured muscles, so it is important to strictly follow the timelines.

Abdominoplasty is recommended once you have finished planning pregnancies. A subsequent pregnancy can stretch the sutured muscles and skin and undo the result. If a pregnancy is planned, the operation is usually postponed until after it.

Stretch marks located on the skin that is removed (below the navel) are removed along with it. Stretch marks above the navel may partially shift downward and become less noticeable, but the operation cannot always remove all stretch marks completely. A realistic outcome is discussed at the consultation.

In the first days it is recommended to move and sleep in a slightly bent position to reduce tension on the sutures. A semi-reclined position with a pillow under the knees is typically used. This reduces pain and supports healing. Sudden movements and standing fully upright are restricted at first.

Abdominoplasty takes 2–4 hours depending on the extent of surgery. A 2–3 day hospital stay under observation is required afterward. This is important for monitoring the condition in the first days, when observation matters most for a safe recovery.

The result of abdominoplasty is stable as long as a stable weight is maintained. Significant weight gain or a new pregnancy can worsen the result. Healthy eating and moderate activity help preserve a flat abdomen for the long term after surgery.

In full abdominoplasty the navel is repositioned into its natural location, since the skin around it shifts significantly. In mini-abdominoplasty repositioning is usually not needed. The navel is shaped carefully so it looks natural once healed.

There is no pain during the operation thanks to anesthesia. In the first days you may feel tightness and discomfort, especially when moving — these are managed with prescribed medication. The discomfort gradually decreases, and movement becomes easier each day.

In the first days you should not lift heavy objects, straighten up abruptly, tense your abdominal muscles, or exercise. It is important to limit activity, wear the compression garment, and follow the regimen. This reduces tension on the sutures and speeds recovery. Detailed restrictions are given individually by the doctor.

In cases of marked obesity, abdominoplasty is usually recommended after weight loss — this improves safety and the quality of the result. The operation is not a weight-loss method: it removes excess skin and corrects the muscles rather than replacing weight reduction. The approach is determined at the examination.

A preliminary result is visible right away, but the abdomen remains swollen for the first few weeks. The main swelling subsides within 1–2 months, and the final result takes shape by 3–6 months, once the tissues have fully healed and the scar has faded. The compression garment speeds up this process.