Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) in Istanbul

Very little. A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss operation: it removes excess skin and some fat and repairs the muscles, so it changes shape rather than weight. It is planned at a stable, healthy weight, and losing weight first, if you intend to, gives a better result.

It depends on where the excess sits. If loose skin is limited to below the belly button, a mini tummy tuck may be enough; the belly button usually stays put and the muscles are usually not repaired. Looseness above the belly button or separated muscles usually need a full tummy tuck.

Yes. There is a lasting scar across the lower abdomen and, in a full tummy tuck, around the belly button. It is planned to sit within the underwear line where possible. Scars are usually red or raised at first and fade over 12–18 months.

Yes, but a later pregnancy can stretch the skin and the muscle repair again and change the result. That is why ASPS suggests postponing a tummy tuck if you plan more children. If you are close to finishing your family, it is usually worth waiting.

In Op. Dr. Bilgehan İlker's practice, drains, when used, usually come out within 1–3 days. Some surgeons use layered internal stitches instead of drains; a meta-analysis of 24 studies found less seroma with this method, with no difference in bleeding or infection. Ask which approach is planned for you.

Most people stand fully upright within 1–2 weeks. For the first days you walk slightly bent forward so that the stitches are not stretched. Straightening up gradually, rather than forcing it, protects the wound while the tissues relax and the swelling settles.

Usually for about six weeks, as your surgeon instructs. The garment supports the abdomen while it heals and helps to control swelling. Most people stop wearing it at around six weeks, when they return to most normal activities, including exercise.

The NHS suggests taking about 4–6 weeks off work and exercise. Desk work may be possible sooner with your surgeon's agreement, and many people return to social life at around 7–10 days. Physical jobs and heavy lifting wait until about six weeks.

The NHS advises not flying for 7–10 days after a tummy tuck, because surgery and air travel both raise the risk of blood clots. Your surgeon confirms your date after checking your wound. On the flight, walk regularly, drink water and wear your garment.

A full tummy tuck usually does: the separated muscles are stitched together in the midline before the skin is closed. A mini tummy tuck usually does not include muscle repair. Your examination shows how far the muscles have separated and which approach suits you.

Only the stretch marks on the skin that is removed will go, usually those below the belly button. Stretch marks on the skin that remains are not removed by the operation, so it helps to look at where yours sit when you discuss the plan.

A seroma is fluid that collects under the skin above the scar. It is the most common local complication, at about 11% in a large meta-analysis. It is usually drained with a needle at a check-up and often settles; occasionally it needs further treatment.

Numbness of the lower abdomen is normal after a tummy tuck. It usually improves gradually over 12–18 months, but some loss of feeling can last longer. Take care with hot-water bottles or heat packs while sensation is reduced, as you may not feel a burn.

Yes. An existing caesarean scar can usually be included in the new scar, as long as at least six months have passed since giving birth. A tummy tuck is often combined with breast surgery as a mummy makeover, which adds some risk and needs careful planning.