Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
ABOUT THE PROCEDURE
Abdominoplasty addresses excess skin and fat on the abdomen while tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles — concerns that diet and exercise alone cannot resolve after pregnancy, significant weight loss, or ageing. For many patients, the functional benefits are as significant as the aesthetic ones: improved posture, reduced back discomfort, and relief from skin irritation beneath skin folds. Mr Ibrahim tailors the procedure precisely to each patient's anatomy and goals, selecting the extent of surgery that will achieve the most meaningful result.
What the Procedure Involves
Mr Ibrahim will assess the quality and quantity of excess skin, degree of muscle separation (diastasis recti), fat distribution, and any previous abdominal scars before planning the approach. The technique is chosen based on the extent of your concerns:
Mini abdominoplasty: Addresses the area below the belly button with a shorter incision. Faster recovery, suitable for patients with limited lower abdominal skin excess and no muscle separation above the umbilicus.
Full abdominoplasty: The most common approach. A hip-to-hip incision allows removal of excess skin and fat across the full abdomen, tightening of the abdominal muscles from rib cage to pubic bone, and repositioning of the belly button.
Extended abdominoplasty: Extends around the flanks for patients with skin excess on the sides, often following significant weight loss.
Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty: Adds a vertical incision to address significant horizontal and vertical skin excess — common after massive weight loss.
Surgery takes two to four hours under general anaesthetic. Drains are placed to prevent fluid accumulation and removed within one to two weeks. A compression garment is applied.
Your Recovery
Significant discomfort, tightness, and limited mobility are expected in the first week. Most patients return to desk work at two to three weeks and avoid strenuous activity for six to eight weeks. Final results are visible at six to twelve months. The scar — positioned low enough to be concealed beneath underwear and swimwear — fades over twelve to twenty-four months.
Risks & Complications
Infection, bleeding, or haematoma
Seroma — relatively common; may require drainage
Wound healing problems, particularly at the T-junction if present
Numbness of the lower abdomen
Scarring, including wide or thickened scars
Skin necrosis — higher risk in smokers
Deep vein thrombosis
Dog ears at the ends of the incision
Need for revision surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a good candidate? Ideal candidates are at or near their goal weight, have excess abdominal skin and muscle laxity that does not respond to exercise, and have completed their family. Non-smokers have better healing outcomes.
Is it a weight loss procedure? No. Abdominoplasty is a contouring procedure. It removes excess tissue but is not a substitute for weight loss. Mr Ibrahim will discuss what is achievable at your current weight.
How long do results last? Results are long-lasting with stable weight. Pregnancy after surgery will alter the results, which is why Mr Ibrahim recommends completing your family first where possible.
MR SAFWAT IBRAHIM
Abdominoplasty Surgery in Dublin
To discuss whether abdominoplasty is suitable for you, contact Mr Ibrahim's rooms to arrange a consultation. He will assess your anatomy, listen carefully to your concerns, and give you an honest and detailed picture of what surgery can and cannot achieve.