In addition to figure problems, typical symptoms include a tendency to sweat, reddening of the skin and inflammation underneath these skin folds. However, excess weight in combination with decreasing skin firmness can also lead to a sagging of the abdominal wall tissue, which is then referred to as a fat apron.

A tummy tuck can help with these problems. During this operation, excess skin and fatty tissue is removed from the lower abdomen and the usually smooth skin of the upper abdomen is tightened over the entire abdomen. If rectus diastasis is present, the underlying abdominal muscles are also tightened.

The aim is to restore and model a harmonious, natural-looking abdominal contour. A prerequisite for a good result is the quality of the skin. In smokers, the skin is often inelastic and blood circulation is restricted. This can often lead to wound healing disorders.

For women, the best time for a tummy tuck is usually after family planning has been completed.

Different surgical methods are used depending on the findings:

• In pure fat apron removal, only the excess skin and fat in the area of the lower abdomen is removed.
• A so-called mini abdominoplasty (mini lower abdominoplasty) is possible for a mild form of sagging abdominal wall. The procedure is limited to the lower abdomen with the removal of excess fatty skin tissue. The scar can be easily concealed underneath bikini bottoms/swimming trunks. The operation can be performed under twilight sleep or general anaesthetic.
• Otherwise, a complete tummy tuck/abdominoplasty is required. The sagging skin, fatty tissue and any existing stretch marks and scars are removed via an arched incision in the lower abdomen in the area of the pubic hair. The remaining skin is tightened. An incision is also required around the navel to reposition it at an appropriate height.
• The so-called champagne groove can be modelled by anchoring the navel to the abdominal wall and removing some fatty tissue.
• If the muscles of the abdominal wall become separated, they can be brought back into their original position with sutures (rectus fascia duplication). This results in a flatter and firmer abdominal wall postoperatively with contouring and narrowing of the waistline.
• A troublesome umbilical hernia can be repaired at the same time.

If desired, a tummy tuck can be combined with liposuction. This allows neighbouring areas of the body to be shaped or remaining fat deposits in the abdominal wall to be further thinned after weight reduction.

To increase safety in the post-operative phase and to support low-tension healing, you will remain in our inpatient treatment centre for 2 days. You can then gradually resume your normal everyday activities. You should refrain from strenuous physical activity and sports for a period of 6 weeks. Lifting heavy loads (>5 kg) should be avoided for this period, especially if the abdominal muscles have been tightened.

To avoid rare but serious complications, we always carry out thrombosis and antibiotic prophylaxis. The wound drains inserted during the operation ensure the drainage of wound secretions and can usually be removed after 1-2 days. The compression girdle applied immediately after the operation should be worn day and night for approx. 6 weeks to support the body contour. The stitches are usually removed 2 weeks after the operation.

The final result can be seen after 3-6 months.

For a Personalised and individual advice I am at your disposal for any questions you may have.