| Technical term | Abdominoplasty, "tummy tuck" |
|---|---|
| Goal | Tightening of sagging skin and connective tissue (fatty tissue) |
| Method | Removal of excess, sagging skin, possibly in combination with liposuction |
| Duration of the operation | 2 to 4.5 hours |
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia |
| Hospitalisation | 1-2 days, also outpatient if necessary |
| After the operation | Showering after removal of the dressing after approx. 5 days; Mobilisation (getting up) on the day of surgery or one day postoperatively; Removal of the drains after 2 - 4 days; Thrombosis prophylaxis in the first few days; |
| Pain | Moderate to moderate soreness in the first few days, especially when moving (standing up); |
| Follow-up treatment and behavioural recommendations | Suture removal after 10 - 21 days; Light physical work (lifting heavy objects) after 4-6 weeks; Sport after 8 weeks; Sun, sauna and solarium after 3 months at the earliest; Wear compression underwear for 4 to 6 weeks day and night; Avoidance of excessive alcohol consumption and smoking for 4 weeks; |
| Scars | Visible scars in the bikini line, in the case of a previous caesarean section extension of this suture to the outside |
| Social and labour skills | After approx. 2-6 weeks, depending on the work profile |
| Durability | with constant body weight and/or without pregnancy permanently |
| Risks | Circulatory disorders in the area of the navel and abdominal skin; Waves, dents, asymmetries, etc.; Aesthetically unsatisfactory result; |
| Side effects | Swelling; haematoma or secondary bleeding; Accumulation of wound fluid in the wound area (so-called "seroma"); Numbness (temporary); Sensitivity to touch (temporary); |
Botox® expert Dr Noack
Dr Niklas Noack is a renowned specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery in Berlin, who is characterised by his outstanding expertise and many years of experience in his field. He has successfully passed the demanding Berlin Medical Association examination to become a specialist and has extensive specialist knowledge and practical skills.
Having already performed over 800 operations during his training under the guidance of experienced plastic surgeons, Dr Noack is an experienced specialist in his field. He attaches great importance to regular theoretical training in order to be able to offer his patients the best possible treatment at all times. Dr Noack also holds a certificate of continuing medical education (CME) from the Berlin Medical Association, which is renewed every 5 years and confirms continuous medical quality assurance.
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that aims to remove excess skin and fatty tissue from the abdominal area and tighten the abdominal muscles. This procedure can help you achieve a firmer and more defined body centre.
Typical applications for an abdominoplasty include changes in the abdominal wall after pregnancy or after significant weight loss. In contrast to the LiposuctionWhile a tummy tuck primarily serves to reduce fat deposits, abdominoplasty focusses on removing excess skin and tightening the muscles.
There are various methods of abdominoplasty that can be customised to the patient's individual needs. These include classic abdominoplasty, mini-abdominoplasty and combined methods, which can also include liposuction. The choice of method depends on various factors, such as the extent of excess skin and fat, the elasticity of the skin and the patient's individual wishes.
Here, an arched incision is made above the pubic hairline from iliac crest to iliac crest, running along the bikini line. The navel is also incised in order to detach the skin to be removed from the navel. Excess skin and the underlying fatty tissue are then removed and the upper abdominal part of the front abdominal wall is tightened towards the groin or pubic area. The belly button is fixed into a new opening in the skin. In the same operation, an abdominal wall hernia (umbilical hernia, inguinal hernia), a so-called "hernia" can be repaired or a scar that has not healed properly (e.g. from a caesarean section) can be corrected. Furthermore, the waist can be emphasised by tightening the abdominal muscles (so-called "internal corset"). This part of the operation may even be covered by your private health insurance. In some cases, a combination with liposuction in the flanks or upper abdomen is advisable. The scars are rather long and can easily be longer than 50cm, but generally heal well.
Abdominoplasty is also a partial operation of a so-called "body lift", in which the lower back, hips, buttocks and lateral thighs are also tightened.
If the overall excess skin is less pronounced, a smaller version ("small tummy tuck") can be performed. With this method, the incision is made in a similar position to the "large" tummy tuck, but is significantly shorter at the sides. The belly button usually does not need to be moved.
If the overall excess skin is less pronounced, a smaller version ("small tummy tuck") can be performed. With this method, the incision is made in a similar position to the "large" tummy tuck, but is significantly shorter at the sides. The belly button usually does not need to be moved.
The path to a successful tummy tuck involves several steps to ensure an optimal result and patient safety and satisfaction.
Counselling interviewIn a detailed consultation, patients are informed about the procedure, possible risks and individual expectations. Medical history, wishes and concerns are also discussed.
PreparationsBefore the operation, further examinations, such as a health check, are carried out to check suitability for the procedure. The anaesthetic information leaflet informs patients about the anaesthetic and possible risks. It is essential that you follow the doctor's individual instructions for your health profile. The main focus here is, for example, the discontinuation of anticoagulant medication (e.g. aspirin, Marcumar) if you are taking it and your diet before the operation. Excessive alcohol consumption and sleeping pills should be largely avoided at least 14 days before the operation. Abstinence from nicotine is recommended for at least 4 weeks before the operation, as otherwise considerable wound healing disorders may occur.
In the first few weeks after the operation, you will experience a feeling of tension similar to severe muscle soreness. The soreness will subside within a few days. Swelling and haematoma will slowly subside after approx. 2-4 weeks. Sensitivity disorders with numbness may occur in the area of the wound. These normally disappear almost completely within a few months. As with any operation, the general surgical risks apply: Post-operative bleeding, swelling, disruption of wound healing, haematoma, infection and the risk of a blood clot (thrombosis), including blockage of a blood vessel (embolism), among others. However, serious complications with permanent damage are rare.
The cost of a tummy tuck can vary depending on the individual case and depends on various factors. In Berlin, prices vary depending on aspects such as the extent of the operation, the anaesthetic and the clinic where the procedure is performed.
Some of the factors that influence the cost of a tummy tuck are
In order to make a tummy tuck accessible to all patients, we offer flexible instalment payment options and various financing options. Individual payment modalities can be discussed and tailored to your needs in a personal consultation.
In order to get an authentic impression of the results of a tummy tuck in our practice, it is helpful to consider the experiences of our patients. Please note, however, that due to legal regulations in Germany, before and after pictures may not be published online for advertising purposes.
Below you will find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about tummy tuck surgery:
Recovery varies from person to person and depends on various factors, such as the method chosen and your personal physical condition. As a rule, most patients need around 2-4 weeks for initial recovery and should refrain from strenuous physical activity for around 6 weeks.
Yes, pregnancy after a tummy tuck is generally possible. However, you should be aware that a new pregnancy can affect the results of the tummy tuck. Address this topic during your consultation to discuss your individual concerns and wishes.
The scar of a tummy tuck usually runs in a horizontal line over the pubic mound. When planning the incision, I make sure that the scars are as inconspicuous as possible. Over time, the scar will fade and become less visible. Nevertheless, scar healing is a very individual matter and takes at least a year in any case.
In most cases, the belly button is repositioned during the operation to achieve a natural and harmonious result. I attach great importance to creating an appealing shape and position of the belly button that suits your body.
The results of a tummy tuck are usually long-lasting. However, to maintain the results, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise and a balanced diet. Major weight fluctuations can affect the results.
The decision to have a tummy tuck is an important step and we would like to support you in your decision in the best possible way. To arrange an individual consultation with Dr Niklas Noack, please use one of the following options:
Click on the "Arrange a consultation appointment now" button to go directly to our online booking system.
Our practice is located in:
Alte Schönhauser Straße 23
10119 Berlin
I look forward to hearing from you.
