This procedure is done under a General Anesthetic as a day surgical procedure. The procedure is done with a long lower tummy incision. The belly button is isolated and the tissue in front of the muscle is lifted all the way till the tip of the breast bone. Muscles are tightened and excess tissue is pulled down. The belly button is then brought out through a new opening and the excess tissue removed. The incision on the lower tummy is closed and drains may also be used. The final result is a hip to hip scar which is low and hidden. There is also a scar around the new belly button. If the tissues on the abdominal wall are thick, Liposuction is also done to create a thinner abdominal wall.

There is a visible scar which sits in the bikini line and heals well. The area around the belly button also has a scar which sits more inside, than outside. Scar management is key to aiding in the overall look of the scar post-operative. .

All patients can walk straight away after the operation, but in a slightly bent over (tummy protective position). The body straightens out completely by about 3 weeks. Driving is generally possible at the 3-4 weeks point. Most can return to work at 8 weeks after surgery. Any contact sports should be left for 12 weeks to protect the muscle repair.

A Tummy Tuck procedure can take from 3 to 5 hours in the operating room, depending on the size of the tummy and the extent of the Liposuction.