Abdominoplasty is usually performed as a day procedure within a hospital facility, under general anaesthesia. In extensive cases or if there are other health problems, an overnight stay will be arranged.

The surgical method depends on the individual patient. Most commonly, the surgeon will make an incision slightly above the pubic area. A second incision is made to free the navel from surrounding tissue. Next, the surgeon separates the skin from the abdominal wall all the way up to your diaphragm, and lifts a large skin flap to reveal the vertical muscles in your abdomen. These muscles are tightened by being pulled closer together and stitched into their new position. This provides a firmer abdominal wall and reduces the waistline. The skin flap is then stretched down and the extra skin is removed. A new hole is cut for your navel, which is then stitched in place. Finally, the incisions will be stitched, dressings will be applied, and a temporary tube may be inserted to drain excess fluid from the surgical site.

With Partial Abdominoplasty ( Mini Tummy Tuck ), the incision above the pubic area is much shorter and the navel may not be moved, although it may be pulled into an unnatural shape as the skin is tightened and stitched. T he skin is separated only between the incision line and the navel. This skin flap is stretched down, the excess is removed, and the flap is stitched back into place. The scar is similar to a caesarean and recovery is quicker than for full abdominoplasty.

The length of your operation depends on the procedure. A Full Tummy Tuck usually takes two to five hours whilst a Mini Tummy Tuck may take an hour or two.