OVERVIEW
Overview of Tummy Tuck
Skin can lose elasticity after pregnancy, significant weight loss, or changes in body composition, leaving excess skin that cannot be corrected with liposuction alone.
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, removes excess abdominal skin and may tighten weakened or separated abdominal muscles.
A tummy tuck is different from liposuction. When clinically appropriate, the procedures may be combined as lipoabdominoplasty. Liposuction of the abdomen, flanks, love handles, or back may also be considered to improve the contour of the waist and torso. The surgical plan is individualized after an in-person evaluation.
Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Francis Jeon
Last medically reviewed: July 14, 2026
SURGICAL OVERVIEW
How Tummy Tuck Works
- Abdominoplasty is often recommended to patients with low abdominal skin laxity, extensive stretch marks and/or severely stretched abdominal muscles as a result of pregnancy and excessive weight loss. These concerns cannot be solved by liposuction alone.
- It is popularly known as Tummy Tuck but in our clinic, we refer to it as “Lipoabdominoplasty”. This is because we perform abdominoplasty with liposuction.
- It involves removal of fat and removal of a large section of skin from the lower abdomen, together with a surgical relocation of the belly button.
- This procedure is considered a major surgery that would require an expert surgeon. At Evita Clinic, Dr. Francis Jeon evaluates each patient’s anatomy, skin condition, health history, and goals before recommending an individualized surgical plan.
Who Needs a Tummy Tuck?
Women who had several pregnancies and want to reduce the size of the skin and tighten the abdominal muscles
Men and women with loose skin around the belly
Adults in good general health who have realistic expectations and want to address excess abdominal skin
DETAIL
Procedure Timeline
Consult
Operation Day
Days 1–7
After 1 week
OUTPATIENT CARE & MONITORING
Postoperative Course
A tummy tuck is major body contouring surgery. The surgical plan, anesthesia, discharge criteria, and follow-up schedule are individualized after consultation with the surgeon.
Most international patients should plan to remain in Korea for at least 2 weeks. Returning to desk work may be possible after approximately 2–3 weeks, but full recovery and strenuous exercise generally take longer. Individual recovery varies.
Patients should stop smoking as instructed, maintain a balanced diet, and sleep in the position recommended by the surgical team.
Drains may be placed in the lower abdomen and checked regularly. They are removed when the drainage level is appropriate, often after several days, but timing varies by patient.
An abdominal compression garment may support the treated area and help reduce swelling. Wear it only for the duration recommended by the surgeon. Measures to reduce the risk of blood clots are determined individually and may include early ambulation, leg compression devices, and medication when clinically indicated.
Sutures are typically removed in stages according to wound healing. Continue incision and scar care exactly as instructed by the clinic. Resume light activity and exercise only after receiving clearance from the surgeon.
Postoperation 1 day – Light Therapy