Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

Abdominoplasty is a cosmetic surgery that removes excess skin from the waist and tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall. It is designed to create a flatter, firmer stomach by:

• Reducing abdominal drooping and redundant skin.
• Repairing and enhancing abdominal muscles.
• Removing stretch marks (those caused by pregnancy).
• Reshaping the belly into a more harmonious contour.

No. It is important to note that abdominoplasty is not a weight-loss procedure. Ideal candidates should already be at a relatively normal size or stable weight. The surgery specifically targets “slack” skin and muscle laxity that remain after weight loss, bariatric surgery, or pregnancy, rather than removing large volumes of body fat.

The Plastic Surgery department offers three primary variations tailored to specific needs:

Standard Abdominoplasty: A hip-to-hip incision used for complete reconstruction of the abdomen and muscle tightening; often involves repositioning the navel.

Mini Abdominoplasty: Uses a small incision (similar to a C-section scar) to remove localized fat and skin from the lower pubic region.

Endoscopic Abdominoplasty: A minimally invasive procedure using tiny cameras and small incisions to tighten abdominal muscles without significant skin removal.

Patients remain in the hospital for 1 to 3 days for observation. Key recovery points include:

• Support: You must wear a compression garment for 3 to 8 weeks.
• Sleeping: You must sleep on your back to avoid putting pressure on incisions.
• Activity: Strenuous activities must be avoided immediately, and rest is crucial for proper healing.
• Side Effects: Swelling, bruising, and temporary lumps are common but manageable with prescribed medication.

Yes, a standard abdominoplasty results in a substantial scar that may run from hip to hip. However, surgeons prioritize precise placement along the bikini line so that it can be easily concealed by underwear or swimsuits. While the scar may appear red or raised for several months, its visibility is minimized by its position, and follow-up cosmetic treatments may be recommended to further improve its appearance.

Abdominoplasty in Dubai typically costs between AED 25,000 and AED 65,000, depending on whether a mini, full, or extended technique is needed, plus anaesthesia and facility fees. Dr. Nanidis provides an exact quote after an in-person or video consultation.

Yes. Many patients combine abdominoplasty with liposuction — sometimes called lipoabdominoplasty — to address both loose skin and stubborn fat in a single procedure. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis during consultation.

A drainless approach uses a progressive tension suture technique to close the space where fluid would normally collect, removing the need for post-surgical drains. This can mean a more comfortable early recovery and one less thing to manage at home.

In a full (standard) abdominoplasty, the belly button is typically repositioned to sit naturally on the newly contoured abdomen. A mini tummy tuck usually does not involve belly button repositioning.

No — abdominoplasty is recommended only for patients who do not plan future pregnancies, since pregnancy after surgery can compromise the repaired abdominal muscles and skin tightening.