Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

The Brazilian Abdominoplasty at Cadogan Clinic offers superior results compared to traditional tummy tucks, with reduced complications. This advanced technique removes excess skin, tightens abdominal muscles, and repositions the belly button. Unlike traditional methods, Brazilian Abdominoplasty employs liposuction to mobilise the skin, leading to quicker healing. While it's a more complex surgery requiring more time, it delivers exceptional results, including:

• Reduced pain
• Shorter downtime
• 30% lower risk of hematoma or seroma (blood or fluid collecting at the operation site)
• Often performed as a day case
• No drainage required
• Enhanced waistline
• Speedy recovery
• Greater opportunity for liposuction

A mini tummy tuck is suitable for individuals with concerns primarily below the belly button. This procedure removes excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen, often leaving just one discreet scar. It's an ideal choice for those who may not require a full abdominoplasty, including younger individuals and those with minor weight loss concerns, like post-pregnancy 'pouches.' This technique targets specific areas, providing long-lasting results when combined with a healthy lifestyle.

We use the same techniques as the full Brazilian Abdominoplasty for the mini tummy tuck, performing the procedure as a day case, avoiding drains and reducing complications.

For patients troubled by skin folds above a C-section scar, Cadogan Clinic offers a simple excision procedure. This outpatient treatment, often conducted under local anaesthesia, effectively addresses this concern, enhancing appearance and confidence.

Abdominal wall muscle overstretching can lead to a bulging abdominal wall after pregnancy. Cadogan Clinic offers a minimally invasive approach to repair weak fascia and restore muscle tone. Patients must avoid overexertion of the abdominal wall for at least three months post-surgery.

The fleur-de-lis technique is the best option for patients with a substantial amount of excess skin, especially following dramatic weight loss. This procedure involves a specific incision shape, akin to an anchor, to address surplus skin. However, healing may take longer due to the more complex incisions.

Designed for individuals with excess skin and fat below the pubic area, this variation of the mini tummy tuck removes extra skin and fat while leaving a horizontal scar. If there are scars from previous operations this tummy tuck may be modified to incorporate them.

Traditional tummy tucks are now considered outdated at Cadogan Clinic. They involve extensive skin and fat removal across the abdominal wall, with a long horizontal scar and multiple hospital nights. This approach carries higher risks of complications, necessitating the use of uncomfortable drains. Instead, Cadogan Clinic opts for modern techniques, emphasising liposuction to contour and mobilise the skin, resulting in better outcomes and faster recovery.

For patients with excess skin and fat extending from the abdomen to the back, Cadogan Clinic recommends a two-stage approach, because if this is carried out tightly the tension is too great to allow proper healing. We begin with an extended abdominoplasty in one session and then remove the tissue of the back in another session.

The endoscopic tummy tuck is a minimally invasive procedure with no visible scarring and minimal downtime. It focuses on internal muscle repair through a small incision above the pubic area, making it ideal for individuals with good skin elasticity but loose abdominal muscles. While it doesn't involve skin removal, it can be combined with liposuction for enhanced body contours. This procedure is suitable for post-pregnancy muscle separation or similar concerns. For those with loose skin, alternative abdominoplasty options like Brazilian or fleur-de-lis tummy tucks are recommended.

Your journey with the Cadogan Clinic begins with up to two consultations at our renowned Chelsea premises, with one of our distinguished specialist plastic surgeons. These consultations typically span between 30 to 60 minutes.

Your surgeon will take you through the various options (Full/Mini/Extended) and which is most suitable and preferential for you. They will provide detailed insights into the procedure itself and its potential impact on your physique. 

Open and honest communication about your surgical goals is vital for achieving the best possible results. Your surgeon will gladly address any queries or concerns you may have during this process. It's a good practice to jot down your questions beforehand. Additionally, your surgeon will conduct several essential measurements and standard clinical photography, review your medical history, and perform a physical examination.

If, based on this evaluation, your surgeon determines that you are a suitable candidate for surgery, you will then be given a two-week 'cooling-off' period to consider whether you wish to proceed with your surgery.

If you choose to proceed with surgery, the next time you come into the Clinic after your final consultation will be the day of your procedure. Before admission the following behavioural changes are recommended / required:

• In the 6 weeks before your procedure we recommend smoking is discontinued as patients who smoke have a higher risk of healing more slowly and complications
• In the week before your procedure you must cease taking Aspirin or any medication that contains Aspirin
• In the 6 hours prior to surgery you must not consume food or any drink, other than small sips of clear fluid (e.g. still water, black coffee, black tea) which are allowed up to 2 hours before admission

We request that you arrive one hour before your scheduled surgery time. Upon arrival, a dedicated nurse will assess vital signs, including blood pressure. You'll also have the opportunity to meet with both your anaesthetist and surgeon for final preparations.

The procedure itself, conducted under general anaesthesia, typically lasts two to three hours. To ensure discreet scarring, an incision is made along the underwear line. The surgeon then lifts the abdominal skin to access and tighten, if needed, the weakened muscles beneath. Afterwards, the skin is gently repositioned, and any excess skin is meticulously removed. The incision is closed with the right amount of tension, preserving a natural appearance. A new opening for the navel (belly button) is also crafted during this process.

Following the procedure, you'll recover in our state-of-the-art ambulatory recovery rooms for approximately two to three hours, depending on the extent of the surgery. Our expert nursing team will closely monitor your initial recovery to ensure your well-being and readiness to return home. You'll have the option to leave the Clinic accompanied by a friend or family member.

After returning home, you'll have access to our dedicated on-call nursing team, available 24/7. These specialists are committed to your comfort, and pain management, and are ready to address any immediate post-operative concerns or questions.

Post-operative discomfort may persist for one to two weeks, with some tightness experienced for several weeks. We'll provide you with a post-surgical garment to offer support and assist with bruising and swelling. It's recommended to wear this garment day and night for four to six weeks. For a smooth recovery, it's advisable to avoid strenuous exercise for six to twelve weeks. Your results will continue to improve over the next twelve to eighteen months.

We'll schedule an appointment with our nursing team one week after your surgery to ensure proper incision site care and review. At this time, we also recommend a consultation with one of our on-site aestheticians to explore ongoing treatments to support healing and minimise scarring.

Lastly, we'll arrange a final check-up with your surgeon after six to eight weeks to evaluate your progress and answer any remaining questions you may have.