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Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

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A tummy tuck is an effective cosmetic surgery that removes sagging skin, tightens loose abdominal muscles and eliminates excess fat in the abdominal area.

“I felt I was in very safe hands.”

— M.A. · Google Review (translated from Turkish)

Plan Your Surgery

Procedure Time

2–3 hours

Anaesthesia

General anaesthesia

Stay in Istanbul

7 days

Return to Daily Life

10–15 days

Compression Garment

4–6 weeks

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

Overview

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is an operation that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, tightens loose abdominal muscles and repositions the belly button to create a flatter, firmer abdomen.

Pregnancy, rapid weight loss or ageing can cause the abdominal wall to loosen, the skin to lose elasticity and the abdominal muscles to separate (diastasis recti). These changes often do not improve with diet and exercise; a tummy tuck addresses them in a single operation. Its main benefits:

  • Removal of excess skin and fat
  • Tightening of loose abdominal muscles
  • Reduction of stretch marks below the belly button
  • A flatter, firmer abdomen and a more defined waistline
  • Clothes fit better, with increased confidence

During your consultation, Dr. Hakki Izmirli assesses the excess skin, muscle laxity and fat distribution in your abdomen, and plans with you whether a mini or full tummy tuck is suitable and whether liposuction should be added.

Karın germe sonrası düz ve sıkı karın – Op. Dr. Hakkı İzmirli

During Surgery

A tummy tuck is performed under general anaesthesia and takes on average 2–3 hours. Pre-operative tests are carried out at the hospital on the morning of surgery.

During the operation, excess skin and fat are removed, the loose abdominal muscles are tightened and the belly button is aesthetically repositioned. When needed, liposuction contouring of the abdomen and waist is added in the same session.

After Surgery

After a tummy tuck, you usually stay in hospital for 2 nights. For the first 5 days you will need to walk slightly bent forward; this reduces tension on the incision line. A compression garment is recommended for 4–6 weeks. You can return to sport after about 8 weeks.

Most patients return to daily life within 10–15 days. Scars fade significantly over time. We recommend that patients travelling from abroad stay in Istanbul for about 7 days.

Google Reviews

Patient Reviews

4.5 ★★★★★  ·  44 reviews on Google  ·  translated from Turkish

I finally have the nose I had dreamed of for years.

I had rhinoplasty with Dr. Hakki about 6 months ago. Although it was an operation I had put off for years, Dr. Hakki’s approach and reassuring manner overcame all my fears. I had almost no pain after surgery and hardly any bruising. His attentiveness, the way he treats patients and how he kept following up after surgery really give you great confidence. I recommend him wholeheartedly.

— Ş.A.  ★★★★★  Google

It has been 11 years since my surgery. Everything has been perfect from day one.

If you want everything to be just right and to suit you, there are no better hands to trust than those of my dear doctor, Dr. Hakki. I am very grateful to him for giving me a new life, confidence and health.

— A.F.  ★★★★★  Google

I am very happy with my result.

My endless thanks to Dr. Hakki Izmirli, who successfully performed the facelift I had because of a deformity in my face. Care, attention, kindness and success all come together in this wonderful team – I recommend you don’t hesitate to contact them.

— S.T.  ★★★★★  Google

I felt I was in very safe hands.

A good doctor who takes time for his patients and responds to their wishes while remaining professional. I felt I was in very safe hands and I am very happy with the results so far.

— M.A.  ★★★★★  Google

He gave me confidence by explaining how he would approach the operation.

Before the operation he understood my questions and concerns. After a successful operation I could reach him whenever I wanted and was always met with attention and warmth. I thank Dr. Hakki for the care, sincerity and kindness he showed both before and after surgery.

— Y.B.A.  ★★★★★  Google

How Is It Performed?

Surgical Technique

The technique used in a tummy tuck depends on the amount of excess skin, the degree of muscle laxity and the distribution of fat. The incision is placed in the lower abdomen so that it stays within the underwear line as far as possible.

After the excess skin and fat are removed, the abdominal muscles are stitched together along the midline to tighten them, which also corrects muscle separation (diastasis recti). The belly button is placed in its new position and, if needed, the abdomen and waistline are shaped with liposuction.

Mini and Full Tummy Tuck

Full tummy tuck: Covers the entire abdomen; excess skin above and below the belly button is removed, the muscles are tightened and the belly button is repositioned. It provides a more noticeable improvement.

Mini tummy tuck: Suitable for milder sagging below the belly button. The incision is shorter and leaves a smaller scar.

Tummy tuck + liposuction: A tummy tuck is often combined with liposuction, so that the abdomen is corrected and the waistline becomes more defined at the same time.

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Tummy Tuck
Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Tummy Tuck Surgery?

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, tightens the abdominal muscles and gives the area a flatter, firmer and more aesthetic appearance. It is particularly effective for laxity and stretch marks after pregnancy.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

  • Women with sagging of the abdomen after pregnancy
  • People with excess skin after rapid weight loss
  • Patients with separation of the abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
  • People whose abdomen does not improve with diet and exercise
  • Men and women who want a flatter, firmer and more aesthetic abdomen

How Is a Tummy Tuck Performed?

The operation is performed under general anaesthesia and takes on average 2–3 hours. During the procedure:

  • Excess skin is removed
  • The abdominal muscles are tightened
  • Contouring with liposuction is done if needed
  • The belly button is aesthetically repositioned

What Is the Difference Between a Mini and a Full Tummy Tuck?

A mini tummy tuck is suitable for milder sagging and leaves a smaller scar. A full tummy tuck covers the entire abdomen and provides a more noticeable improvement.

What Should I Pay Attention to Before Surgery?

  • The consultation takes place at the clinic; blood tests and other tests are carried out at the hospital on the morning of surgery
  • Aspirin and blood thinners are stopped
  • Smoking should be stopped at least 3 weeks before surgery

What Is Recovery Like After a Tummy Tuck?

It usually requires 2 nights in hospital.

  • For the first 5 days you need to walk slightly bent forward
  • A compression garment is recommended for 4–6 weeks
  • Return to daily life is possible within 10–15 days
  • Scars fade significantly over time
  • Return to sport is possible after 8 weeks

What Does the Cost of a Tummy Tuck Depend On?

The cost depends on the technique, whether liposuction is added and your individual needs. An exact price is given after your consultation.

Can a Tummy Tuck and Liposuction Be Done Together?

A tummy tuck is often combined with liposuction. This way the abdomen is corrected and the waistline becomes more defined at the same time.

Can a Tummy Tuck Be Done After Pregnancy?

Mothers after pregnancy are the group who request it most. Sagging skin, stretch marks and muscle separation are corrected with this operation.

Is a Tummy Tuck Performed on Men?

Sagging of the abdomen after weight loss is also very common in men and is treated effectively with a tummy tuck.

What Are the Risks of a Tummy Tuck?

Risks such as infection, bleeding or seroma are rare. With the right surgeon, a sterile environment and proper aftercare, risks are kept to a minimum.

For more information about tummy tuck surgery or to book a consultation, contact Dr. Hakki Izmirli.

Why Dr. Hakki Izmirli for a Tummy Tuck?

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