Your Initial Consultation: Understanding Your Needs and Goals

Your tummy tuck journey begins with a detailed consultation with one of our experienced plastic surgeons. During this first step, we take the time to get to know you — reviewing your medical history, assessing the condition of your abdominal skin, fat tissue, and muscles, and discussing any past procedures or weight loss milestones.
This is also your opportunity to share your personal goals, preferences, and any questions or concerns you may have. Together, we’ll explore what you’d like to achieve and begin shaping a treatment plan that fits your body optimization.

Creating Your Personalised Treatment Plan

Following the consultation, your surgeon will develop a tailored treatment plan designed around your specific needs and desired outcome. This includes recommending the right surgical approach — whether that’s a classic abdominoplasty, mini-abdominoplasty, or extended technique — and explaining what to expect from each option.
We’ll also talk through any potential risks, clarify the healing timeline, and provide advice on how to best prepare for the operation. From lifestyle recommendations to pre-operative steps, everything is planned to support a safe, smooth procedure and a confident, satisfying result.

Pre-Surgery Preparation

Before your surgery, we’ll conduct standard medical checks, including a blood test, to confirm you’re fit for the procedure. Your care team will guide you through key pre-operative steps, such as adjusting medications, avoiding nicotine and alcohol, and preparing your home and support system for post-op recovery.

You’ll also receive detailed advice about dietary guidelines and how to structure your days leading up to surgery to promote optimal healing.

The Day of Surgery: Comfort, Precision, and Preparation

On the day of your surgery, you’ll arrive at the clinic having fasted, and your surgeon will review the surgery and mark the treatment areas. You’ll then receive general anaesthesia to ensure complete comfort throughout the operation.

Performing the Surgery

The surgery typically begins with a horizontal incision in the lower abdominal area and just above the pubic area. The length of this incision depends on how much excess skin needs to be removed. In a mini-abdominoplasty, it is less invasive thus the incision is shorter, however in more extensive cases it may span across the lower abdomen.

• Loosening and Tightening of the Skin and Muscles: After the incision, the surgeon separates the skin and fatty tissue from the abdominal wall and tightens any separated muscles, such as after pregnancy (rectus diastasis) or significant weight loss, with sutures to create a flatter abdominal contour.
• Removal of Excess Skin and Fatty Tissue: The surgeon carefully removes excess skin and fatty tissue to tighten the abdominal region, and lipsoction may be used if needed to refine the contours.
• Repositioning of the Belly Button: During a complete abdominoplasty, the belly button is respositioned to maintain a natural aesthetic.
• Closing the Incisions: Once the skin has been tightened, then the final step is closing the incision with fine sutures or adhesive tape. Drains may be placed to remove fluid buildup and reduce swelling during the first few days of recovery.

Immediately After Surgery: Early Healing and Support

After the surgery, you’ll rest in a monitored recovery room until the effects of anaesthesia wear off. You may experience some swelling or discomfort, which can be managed with medication. In many cases, patients stay in the clinic overnight for observation and early support.

• Weight Doctors® ShapeWear: these compression garments are provided to reduce swelling, promote healing, and stabilize the abdominal tissues. These should be worn around the clock for several weeks (except while showering)
• Removal of Drains: the drains that were inserted during the surgery are typically removed after a few days. Your surgeon will provide you clear instructions on wound care of your incisions.

Post-Surgery Care: Healing, Guidance, and Recovery

Aftercare is essential for a successful tummy tuck. You’ll return for regular follow-up visits with your surgeon to monitor your progress and ensure no complications arise.  

In the first few weeks, it’s important to:

• Care of Surgical Wounds: Wounds should be kept clean and dry, and your doctor will provide specific guidance on how to manage the healing site.
• Physical Rest: Avoid strenuous activity, however light walks are encouraged to help with blood circulation and the healing process.
• Gradual Return to Daily Activities: Most patients can return to light activities after about two to four weeks, while more demanding physical activity should wait six to eight weeks — depending on your surgeon’s recommendations.

Your Results: Recovery Timeline and Long-Term Transformation

Full recovery from a tummy tuck can take several months. Swelling will gradually decrease, and scars will begin to fade with proper care. Most patients see their final results between six- and 12-months after surgery, when healing is complete and the abdominal contours are fully defined.

To maintain your results, your Weight Doctors® team will guide you on scar care treatments, a balanced diet, and regular physical activity. Stable weight and a healthy lifestyle are essential to preserving your long-term outcome.

At the Weight Doctors®, we’re with you from your first consultation through to full recovery. Our RESHAPE program ensures a 360-degree care model — delivering expert guidance, medical precision, and a supportive experience that empowers you to look and feel your best.