Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Procedure Overview

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen while simultaneously tightening the abdominal wall muscles. It is designed for patients who have experienced significant abdominal changes due to pregnancy, major weight loss, or the natural effects of ageing - and who have not been able to restore abdominal tone through diet and exercise alone.

Dr. Matwa performs both the full abdominoplasty and the mini tummy tuck depending on individual anatomy and goals. A full abdominoplasty addresses the entire abdominal area from the lower chest to the pubic region, involves repositioning of the umbilicus, and repairs diastasis recti (separation of the rectus abdominis muscles). A mini tummy tuck is reserved for patients with minor skin laxity confined to the area below the navel, requiring a shorter incision and no umbilical repositioning.

The procedure is tailored individually - no two abdomens are alike. Dr. Matwa's pre-operative assessment determines which technique will produce the most proportionate, natural-looking, and lasting result for each patient's specific anatomy.

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Abdominoplasty tummy tuck - Truffel Healthcare Kilimani

Why Patients Choose This Procedure

Key Benefits

◈

Flat, Toned Abdomen

Surgical removal of excess skin produces a smooth, flat abdominal contour that no amount of diet or exercise can achieve once significant skin laxity has developed.

✦

Diastasis Recti Repair

Rectus muscle plication corrects the separation of abdominal muscles that commonly occurs during pregnancy, restoring core strength and a narrower waist.

✿

Removal of Excess Skin

Redundant, hanging abdominal skin - which can cause rashes, hygiene issues, and emotional distress - is permanently excised during the procedure.

⬡

Reduced Stretch Marks

Many stretch marks in the lower abdomen are contained within the excised skin panel and are removed as part of the procedure, improving the appearance of the remaining skin.

◎

Improved Posture

Tightening the abdominal wall muscles supports the lumbar spine more effectively, which can improve posture and reduce lower back pain associated with weakened core muscles.

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Restored Body Confidence

Patients consistently report a significant improvement in self-image and confidence after abdominoplasty - particularly those who have struggled with post-pregnancy or post-weight-loss changes for years.

How It Works

The Surgical Process

Consultation & Technique Selection

Dr. Matwa assesses skin laxity, abdominal muscle integrity, fat distribution, and overall health to determine whether a full abdominoplasty, mini tummy tuck, or extended technique is most appropriate. Surgical markings, incision placement, and umbilical position are planned in detail.

Anaesthesia & Incision

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. A low horizontal incision is made - positioned to be hidden below the underwear line - extending from hip to hip. For a full abdominoplasty, a second incision is made around the umbilicus to free it from the surrounding skin.

Muscle Tightening & Skin Removal

The abdominal skin is elevated from the underlying fascia. The rectus abdominis muscles are plicated with permanent sutures to repair diastasis and create a tighter, stronger abdominal wall. The elevated skin flap is then stretched downward, the excess is excised, and the belly button is brought through a new opening.

Closure & Recovery

The incision is closed in multiple layers to minimise tension and optimise scar quality. Surgical drains are placed if indicated. A compression garment is fitted before the patient is transferred to the recovery room to begin their monitored post-operative care.

Dr. Matwa Christopher

Founder & Lead Plastic Surgeon · KMPDC Licensed

What to Expect

Recovery Timeline

Day
1-3

Hospital Rest

Patients rest in an elevated position with hips slightly flexed to reduce tension on the lower incision. Pain is managed with prescribed analgesia. Drains, if placed, are monitored and output recorded.

Wk
1-2

Early Mobilisation

Short walks encouraged from day 2 to reduce clot risk. Drains typically removed at the first follow-up. Compression garment worn continuously. Patients walk with a slight stoop initially - this resolves within days.

Wk
2-4

Light Work

Light desk-based work is possible. Swelling continues to reduce. Sutures are absorbed or removed at the two-week visit. Avoid lifting objects over 4kg. Scar management begins with silicone gel.

Mo
2-3

Full Results

Exercise resumes - starting with walking, progressing to core work as advised. The final abdominal contour is visible as swelling fully resolves. Scar continues to mature and fade over 12-18 months.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

A full abdominoplasty addresses the entire abdominal area from below the ribs to the pubic region. It involves complete elevation of the abdominal skin flap, rectus muscle plication (muscle tightening) along the full length of the abdomen, removal of a large panel of excess skin, and repositioning of the belly button through a new opening. A mini tummy tuck is appropriate for patients who have mild skin laxity confined only to the lower abdomen below the navel. It requires a shorter incision, does not involve umbilical repositioning, and does not address the upper abdomen. Dr. Matwa will determine which technique is appropriate for your anatomy at your consultation.

The main incision runs horizontally in the lower abdomen, carefully placed below the natural underwear or swimsuit line so it is not visible in clothing. For most patients, the scar is between the hip bones. There is also a circular scar around the repositioned belly button. Scars go through a maturation process over 12-18 months - initially pink and firm, gradually fading to a pale, flat line. Consistent scar management (silicone gel, sun protection, hydration) from 4-6 weeks post-operatively significantly improves the final appearance.

Yes - this is an important prerequisite. Candidates should be at or near their goal weight and have maintained that weight for at least 3-6 months before abdominoplasty. Significant weight gain after surgery will stretch the repaired abdominal muscles and the skin, partially reversing the result. Weight loss after surgery may leave residual loose skin that was not excised. Abdominoplasty achieves the best, most lasting results when body weight is stable. It is not a weight-loss procedure.

Diastasis recti is a separation of the two rectus abdominis (six-pack) muscles along the midline - a very common consequence of pregnancy. It results in a visible abdominal bulge or "pooch" that cannot be corrected by exercise alone. During abdominoplasty, Dr. Matwa repairs this by plicating (suturing) the medial edges of both muscles back together with permanent sutures, restoring a tighter, narrower abdominal wall. This also improves core stability and can reduce lower back pain. Whether you have diastasis will be assessed on physical examination at your consultation.

Yes - when liposuction is combined with a tummy tuck in the same operation, it becomes what is known as a lipoabdominoplasty. This technique uses a vessel-preserving approach to safely perform liposuction of the flanks, waist, and upper abdomen at the same time as the skin excision and muscle repair. The result is a more comprehensive contour than either procedure could produce alone. Dr. Matwa will discuss whether you would benefit from this approach at your consultation. Liposuction of the central abdominal flap itself is not performed simultaneously as this would compromise blood supply to the flap.