Tummy Tuck
PROCEDURE OVERVIEW
Surgery: Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty, Lipectomy, Standard Tummy Tuck, Extended Tummy Tuck, Mini Tummy Tuck, Belt Lipectomy)
A tummy tuck can make the tummy flatter and firmer by removing loose skin on the abdomen and tightening of the underlying abdominal muscles.
There are many different tummy tuck procedures the procedure that is best for you will depend whether the loose skin is located above or below the navel as well as other factors.
The size of the incisions required for a Tummy Tuck depends upon the amount of skin that needs to be removed. A mini tummy tuck doesn’t mean there will be a smaller incision.
If the skin removed contains stretch marks they will be removed as well however stretch marks on skin that is not removed will remain.
This procedure is usually not recommended for women planning to have further pregnancies as it will negate the results of surgery.
A tummy tuck does not include liposuction however it may possible to have liposuction performed at the same time as a tummy tuck if recommended by the surgeon.
This Procedure is available at:
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How old do I have to be to have this surgery?
You must be at least 20 years of age to have elective surgery in Thailand. Patients under the age of 20 years need to provide a signed Consent Form from their parent/guardian if the surgeon accepts the case.
How soon can I have this surgery?
We can secure priority appointments for our clients subject to the surgeon’s availability. However it is best to request an appointment well in advance so that the surgeon can advise you about the steps to take before coming for surgery.
Is a tummy tuck a weight loss surgery?
A tummy tuck can make the tummy flatter and firmer by removing excess loose and hanging skin but it isn’t a weight loss option. It is recommended that you loose as much weight as possible before surgery for best results. If you continue to loose weight after a tummy tuck you may end up with more loose skin that needs to be removed.
How soon after delivery of my baby can I have this surgery?
Usually, the surgeon will only perform this surgery 12 months or more after you last delivery.
Should I have a Tummy Tuck if I plan to have more children?
This procedure is usually not recommended for women who are still planning to get pregnant in the future as this will negate the results of surgery.
Will a tummy tuck take all my fat away?
A tummy tuck can make the tummy flatter and firmer by removing excess loose and hanging skin. If the bulge is caused by fat inside the abdomen, a tummy tuck cannot improve this.
Does a mini tummy tuck have a smaller scar?
The size of the scar for a mini tummy tuck is no smaller than a full tummy tuck.
Does a tummy tuck include liposuction to abdomen or waist?
A tummy tuck doesn’t include liposuction to abdomen or waist but the surgeon may recommend liposuction with a tummy tuck. The cost of liposuction is not included in a tummy tuck procedure.
What is an extended tummy tuck?
An extended tummy tuck may be recommended where there is loose and hanging skin around the love handle area. The incision for an extended tummy tuck extends past the front to the hips to the waist area.
What is a circumferential tummy tuck?
This tummy tuck attends to loose and hanging skin around the circumference of the body. This procedure may be suitable for patients that have experienced massive weight loss resulting in excess skin. Often this procedure is combined with other body lift surgeries such as a tight or buttock lift.
What is the difference between a mini tummy tuck and a full tummy tuck?
A full tummy tuck is usually recommended where it is necessary to tighten the skin both above and below the navel. A mini tummy tuck is for loose skin below the navel.
How can I get better results from my tummy tuck surgery?
The fat inside the abdomen and laxity of the abdominal muscles can also contribute to abdominal distension and it will be best to do exercises targeted to the abdominal muscles to tone them. This will contribute to better results from surgery.
Will my abdominal muscles be tightened?
For a full tummy tuck, extended and circumferential tummy tuck, the surgeon may recommend suturing your abdominal muscles to provide a firmer tummy area with less distension.
How long does the operation take and will I be asleep?
This procedure takes up to 4 - 6 hours under general anaesthetic.
Where will the incisions be?
The incisions will depend upon the type of tummy tuck and technique used. As a guide, please see the comments below. However the surgeon needs to perform a physical examination to determine the exact placement.
In a full tummy tuck, generally there will be an incision from hip to hip placed as low as possible and another around the navel.
In an extended tummy tuck, generally the incision will be the same as the full tummy tuck and will extend past the hip to the waist area.
In a belt lipectomy or circumferential tummy tuck, generally there will be an incision right around the body including the back and sides - like a belt. There will be an incision around the navel too.
In a mini tummy tuck genertally there will be a hip to hip incision but it may be slightly shorter and there may not be an incision around the navel because a mini tummy tuck only removes excess skin below the navel.
Will there be scaring?
Scaring will be present where the incisions were made. These may fade to fine lines or may remain obvious after healing is completed. How your scars will appear depends on how your body heals. The scars differ for each type of tummy tuck. For a standard tummy tuck and mini tummy tuck there will scars around the belly button and across the lower abdomen running from one hip to the other. For an extended tummy tuck there will scars around the belly button and across the lower abdomen running from one waist to the other. For a circumferential tummy tuck there will scars around the belly button and across the lower abdomen running right around the torso. Please ask the surgeon about the placement of the scars at your consultation before surgery. The surgeon will try to place them below the bikini line where possible but it is not always possible in every case.
How long will I be in hospital?
Up to 3 nights admission is necessary. The actual length of admission will depend upon the surgeons recommendation and the type of tummy tuck you have.
How long do I have to stay in Thailand?
The surgeon usually recommends a stay of at least 12-14 nights after surgery. This is to allow you time to recover and to have a follow up consultation with the surgeon and removal of sutures. The surgeon may change the recommended time overseas based on age, medical conditions or where more than one surgery is being performed.
Why can’t I leave sooner?
For your own safety you should observe the recommendation. Air travel presents risks such as deep vein thrombosis. To leave sooner would present an unnecessary risk. If you cannot stay the recommended time it is best not to have surgery overseas.
Will I have a consultation with the surgeon before surgery?
Yes, the surgeon will examine you and discuss the procedure with you before your surgery. He will answer any questions you may have.
What are the risks associated with a tummy tuck?
There are always risks in having surgery. This applies whether you have surgery overseas or at home. A tummy tuck is a major operation and you may also suffer the risk of blood clots. The surgery results in long and heavy scarring. Once the healing process is complete, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet because increased weight will reverse the improvement made by this procedure and can stretch the skin resulting in heavy permanent scarring and bulging abdomen. In most cases tummy tuck surgery produces excellent results, and with a balanced diet and regular exercise, the results are long lasting. Possible risks of a Tummy Tuck will include unfavourable scarring, bleeding or hematoma formation, infection, fluid accumulation, poor wound healing, skin loss or fat necrosis due to poor perfusion in the surgical site, major wound separation, numbness or other changes in skin sensation, skin discoloration and/or prolonged swelling, asymmetry, recurrent looseness of skin, pain which may persist, nerve damage, suboptimal aesthetic result, possibility of revisional surgery and risks associated with anaesthesia. Smokers may experience a delay the healing process and are at a higher risk of complications. Please talk to the surgeon about all of the risks before proceeding with surgery.
How should I prepare for surgery?
When we have your case assessed by the surgeon before you travel overseas, you may be given some specific instructions by the plastic surgeon about preparing for surgery. Generally, you will be asked to stop some medications and all vitamin supplements, alcohol and smoking. You must not stop any prescription medications without first consulting your prescribing physician or instruction from the surgeon.
What should I do after surgery?
The surgeon will provide post-operative care instructions after surgery which may include wearing a compression garment. Exercise, strenuous activities should be avoided for .
When can I start exercising?
The surgeon will advise you about resuming exercise after surgery at your post-operative consultation. Usually you can return to work about 2-3 weeks after surgery and normal physical activities can resume in about 2 months however please it can vary from case to case so please ask the surgeon.
How much does this surgery cost?
To get a free estimate for this surgery please click here [8]
How can I get a surgeons opinion before travelling overseas?
To get a free surgeons opinion and estimate for this surgery please send your photos and complete the questionnaire by clicking here [8]
How can I find out which type of tummy tuck is right for me?
To get a free surgeons opinion and estimate for a tummy tuck surgery please send your photos and complete the questionnaire by clicking here [8]
Can I see before and after photos?
Due to privacy laws, before and after photos are not available online. The surgeon may provide these to you once you have your case reviewed. To have a free review of your case please send your photos and complete the questionnaire by clicking here [9]
Can I talk to a past patient?
Yes, many of our clients are very happy to talk to others that are planning surgery through Stunning Makeovers. Before we can put you in touch, please send your photos and complete the questionnaire by clicking here. [8]
TESTIMONIALS
Thank you again, you and Swee are great, and the service you are providing is just tremendous.
Thought I had better get around to sending you the after pictures I took last weekend. You can use them if you wish for potential clients. I will be taking some more in a months time so will pass them on to you also and hopefully they will be of better quality.
Paul I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you for your caring and professionalism in all my dealings with you.
I initially gave you a very short time frame to arrange my surgery. You immediately stepped up and before I knew it I had all the arrangements in place and I was feeling very confident in what was about to take place.
The actual surgery and hospital stay were problem free and I was taken care of by a great team of professionals.
I am now two months post op and …..I am actually considering further surgery.
I would have no hesitation in recommending your company to anyone contemplating the big step of cosmetic surgery abroad.
Thank you so much and I look forward to dealing with you in the future.
I was just looking around on the internet, and Stunning Makeovers was one of the first sites that came up. I chose to go with Stunning Makeovers because of the price and am satisfied with their service.
The nursing staff were always happy to help when needed with a smile and service was very good. The facilities were nice, clean and modern.
I would return for more surgery and would go through Stunning Makeovers again. Their service was excellent. I gave them only a short amount of time to organise my makeover holiday...and was completed within week.
I'm very pleased Terry my husband reckons it looks like I had a breast implant as well as losing the abdominal bit because it enhances the chest, so he's a happy little chap too.
But on a serious note I was over the moon with the support you gave me all the way though from first inquiry to the last text.
Everything was very smooth, well managed and quick, everything was handle very professionally but very friendly. Coming home with Cathy was a breeze, as we bypassed all the queues etc we had a man assigned to the wheel chair, Cathy had to be in. He kept us as a group and took us right to our seats on the plane. We were very impressed with the service. Once again thank you for organizing this honorific step in my life for the better.
Will keep you in mind if I ever hear of anyone else wanting to head over or if I can con Terry into let me have something else done. If I needed to come back it would be first on the list.
I would recommend Vejthani Hospital to other people “1st Class”.
I was concerned about my hernia and wanted to get the operation done as soon as possible and went through Stunning Makeovers to organise it for me.
Their service was great. Trust and honesty is necessary in such a big step to have surgery overseas. Paul definitely earned that on the follow up to the trip. He was professional, friendly and prompt.
Dr Theera was great, team were friendly.
Jippy was a nurse I will never forget, her English was good, her humour and confidence in her job made me relax... the others were lovely. Beautiful and friendly staff and would definitely recommend.
The first consultation and all medical checks went so fast and smooth, that made my visit all worth it! Never would that all happen as fast if I did it in Australia
Hospital facilities were amazing, great views, and value for money and more.
Take a partner for support. I went alone and realised that you definitely need your personal support system.
I would return for more surgery and have already recommended Stunning Makeovers.
I chose Stunning Makeovers to arrange my surgery overseas because Paul was in touch with in a phone call as soon as I emailed. He is very through and easy to talk to and nothing is to much trouble for him.
I am totally satisfied with Stunning Makeovers service. I would recommend Paul’s Stunning Makeovers Ltd for organising every thing for you.
The nursing and support staff were all wonderful and the service was exceptional and very happy with the hospital.
I would return for more surgery/dental treatment in the future and will recommend Stunning Makeovers to others because of your great service.
A special thanks to all.
First of all, I would like to thank you and your wife for organising the Stunning Makeover for me. As you know I got a tummy tuck …….. I wouldn’t hesitate recommending Stunning Makeovers to anyone.
I would definitely come to you if I need to get another procedure done in the future.
I must admit the thought of coming to Thailand to get my surgery done was scary since I haven’t travelled to any other country by myself since I have been in New Zealand.
It was a big step for me and I am glad I went through with it. Paul, you made me feel comfortable and very reassuring. I rang you a lot to ask lots of questions about how the systems work, etc. When I couldn’t get hold of you, you made sure to ring me back. You sent me emails and posted me mail, you also explain things properly and professionally.
I wanted to get a tummy tuck for 4 years but I pushed it aside like it is only a dream.
I watched extreme makeovers and wishing it was me getting the surgery done. When I started looking into getting it done, I finally decided I would call a few surgeons in New Zealand.
Their quotes were between NZ$13,000 – NZ$16,000. I could not believe it so I went back to square one. It will take us at least another two years to save up.
A friend came over to see my husband. He told my husband how his workmate went to Thailand to get a boob job done really cheap and it looks really good.
My husband told me about Thailand and we searched on the internet. That’s when I found Stunning Makeovers.
When Paul told me roughly how much it was going to cost me, I was shocked.
I couldn’t believe it. I was so excited and did some budget and waited eagerly for my husband to come home from work. I told him the whole thing and he was just stunned he told me to ring Paul and start organising.
I would definitely recommend you guys as you put so much work into organising my itinerary, booking the surgeon and book my hotel and kept in touch with me.
Paul and his wife took care of everything. It was simple. The nursing and hospital staff made me feel very welcome and the Thai people are so polite.
I would love to come back to Thailand with my family next time in the near future. So thank you Paul!!!
A friend recommended Stunning Makeovers and we are very satisfied with their service and happy that everything went well.
The hospital was clean and the doctor was friendly and patient and explained the whole procedure to me and my husband ……. The nursing staff was very efficient constantly monitored my progress. The service was what I expected…...
Everything went like clockwork very efficient staff and professional.
In a few years if I think of doing any other procedures it will be for sure at this hospital. I have no hesitation in recommending Stunning Makeovers to others.
I would like to pass on my thanks to the international nurse on level 4. I believe she is from the Philippines that nurse in particular was excellent and caring. I think her name is Alexandra.
I found my experience to be a very positive one
I had been a little wary of going overseas to have any type of surgical procedure performed, but was very reassured on entering Yanhee Hospital. I found it to be very clean, modern and impressive.
The administrative staff are very helpful, the international staff lovely and attentive with very good English, and the nursing staff was exceptional with very quick attendance! (I have to say, when you press your call button in Yanhee Hospital, the nurse is by your bed within 1-2 minutes EVERY TIME!)
I was also impressed with the aseptic techniques used in all procedures. I would have no hesitation in recommending overseas surgery at Yanhee Hospital.
The surgeon was very friendly.....The Lasik team were VERY thorough, performing a multitude of tests both pre- and post-procedure. I had been very nervous at the prospect of having Lasik performed (due to claustrophobia) and they were extremely reassuring, talking to me throughout the actual procedure, explaining every step and telling me it would be over quickly.
Thank you to the team (okay, the pair) at Stunning Makeovers for taking all the hassle out of booking flights, hotels and consultations and for answering all my queries promptly and professionally!
Your warm and friendly personalities made this experience enjoyable, and I look forward to sharing information evenings with you.
I read excellent feedback on Stunning Makeovers website and I like everything to be organised for me.
The initial response time to my enquiry was prompt and informative. The quality of information provided to me was excellent.
My surgeon was excellent and the nursing staff and hospital facilities were excellent.
The hotel we stayed at is in the perfect location for shopping, dining and hairdresser, etc.
I am extremely happy …. and would return for more surgery and recommend Stunning Makeovers to others.
I particularly enjoyed meeting other women on the group trip and had a fantastic time just shopping and making new friends.
A friend at my gym recommended Stunning Makeovers and I travelled to Thailand on their group trip package. It was good to have Paul accompany us on the trip.
Nurses were efficient and the facilities were clean. I would return for dental treatment.
Wanting to have a contact person from New Zealand and who spoke good English, this was important to me, my first call with Paul was so professional. In a short conversation I felt so comfortable to talk with Paul about the surgery I wanted. Paul was amazing and very caring, had all the answers to all my questions, I never felt like I was annoying him with my questions, because I had a lot especially when you are going to another country you want to know you are going to be safe and looked after well.
The surgeon was very professional and caring, had a great sense of humor and spoke very good English and kept on checking me. Yanhee Hospital was great. All the staff was responsible and spoke clear good English.
The Nursing and Support staff were amazing and I was so well looked after. They really know what they are doing. The service was so professional and constantly had smiles. 110% satisfied with all their services. The facilities were very good; our room at the hospital was very comfortable and I was in there for three nights. We were both happy as the nurses changed our bed every day.
I am 110% satisfied with Stunning Makeovers service. I’m very happy and can't believe how great I feel already. Paul is very professional in every way, so glad I found Stunning Makeovers; I only have great things to say.
I will being recommending anybody to go direct through Paul, everything that was in my package and itinerary was prefect, you couldn't fault any of the information given, he knows what he is talking about. My husband and I were totally blown away, with the way I have been treated and looked after, very successful surgery and holiday at the same time.
I can't thank you enough and so glad I found you!! You have helped me better my life in every single way, you are very professional and everything you recommended was right! Thank you Paul, truly for everything, our first time away from our kids and we not only had a blast in Bangkok but had a blast with each other.
Thanks for everything!
The surgeon in charge of my surgery is second to none, and the hospital is top class in terms of care and cleanliness. I have found the staff to be warm, respectful and caring - there is something about the medical care you receive here that enables you to keep your dignity.
My husband and I are extremely happy with the medical arrangements we have received - and plan to definitely use the same surgeon in the near future for other treatments as necessary.
Everything was great, my recovery was surprisingly quick and barely painful at all. Sean loves his new teeth!
Also you were a lot of help Paul and the last email with the address times of appointments and everything made stuff so much easier. Thank you so much for your help.
I have recommended you to my sister-in-law looking to have surgery next year. Maybe we will go together.
The team who welcomed me at the International Desk were very kind and helpful. Each time I met these ladies, I was always made very special. The ward staff were also very helpful, kind and considerate. Extremely good care following surgery by the doctor, nurses and aides who were very kind and involved.
To sum it up, it was a wonderful adventure, process and outcome. Thanks to all who made it so great.
I am very happy with the procedures and care received. Vejthani Hospital has excellent facilities and all the staff was excellent.
I was very spoiled during my 4 days stay and would like to recommend Vejthani Hospital to anyone.
My tummy shape is better than I had thought possible. The surgeon I had is a very gifted man.
Counting down the days until I can start with gentle jogging again, and then back to playing hockey this summer. Plus wearing a bikini again!
I am amazed at how well everything went and fortunately I had finished all my shopping. As a lone traveller, I am particularly thankful for the driver and his friendly staff.
I am very satisfied with Stunning Makeovers services. I was very impressed with the surgeon; he was extremely professional and polished which inspired confidence. My results were better than I had imagined they could be especially the tummy tuck. He provided an extremely high standard of care from pre op to follow up visits.
The nursing and support staff were always courteous, helpful and professional. I was given an excellent level of care and never had to wait when any request was made of them. Pain relief was offered regularly and I never had to ask for it. My comfort was maintained at all times. Vejthani Hospitalprovided excellent service even the van driver! The facilities were modern and clean, up to date equipment, as good if not better than I have experienced in any New Zealand or UK private hospital.
Considering the serious nature of surgery; the facilities and care provided were of an excellent standard. The cost was very reasonable. I was very impressed with the surgeon and the anaesthesiologist and felt confident that I was in competent hands during my lengthy surgery.
I would most definitely return, if I wanted more surgery/dental treatment.
The surgeon was awesome. The nurses and support staff were excellent as they were not only helpful but quick to answer bell calls.Moreover, the service was perfect and very good pain management.
I definitely would return for more surgery/dental treatment.
I already have as I am very happy with the outcome of my surgery. I recommended Stunning Makeovers to anyone considering cosmetic surgery.
I was very satisfied with Stunning Makeovers as they were very organized and I had a great time in Thailand.
The surgeon was amazing!The staff and the hospital were so kind and caring. I felt very safe.
I would definitely return there for more surgery, if I were ever planning on getting anything done. I definitely will recommend Stunning Makeovers to others. My experience in Bangkokhas not only changed my body but has made me open my eyes to so much! It's changed my life.
Overall, I am extremely happy with the surgery.
I had an awesome surgeon, nurses were great, staff was helpful, all the services went smoothly and the facilities were amazing!
Yes I will recommend Stunning Makeovers and I have been and so many people want to go now because I had such an awesome experience.
I chose Stunning Makeovers becasue I knew the care and quality of work would be far superior to going on my own. I also decided based on online testimonials on the stunning makeovers website and that it's based in New Zealand.
The experience in Bangkok, at Vejthani and the hotel were fantastic. Everything was organised so well.
Dr Theera was fantastic, at the consult he explained everything in detail, answered my questions and didn't rush me. While I was in hospital I was checked on everyday and every 3 days after being discharged. I was given plenty of information on how to care for scars etc. the results are still early days but already are amazing.
Fantastic hospital staff, the nurses were always checking on me, I never felt like I was being a bother, not only were they amazing in quality of care but also friendly and great to chat to about everyday stuff including tourist tips while in Bangkok which I appreciated. If I was in pain they were quick to administer pain relief. They really went above and beyond, I can say the same for the international co-ordinators.
The hospital more than met my expectations. Far better rooms than I would ever see here in New Zealand. My favourite was the balcony off my hosptial room, I couldn't leave my bed for 3 days so it was a godsend for me, my friend would open the doors so I could feel the warmth and watch lightning storms. The bottles of water always on hand were a great thing too.
Satisfaction out of 10 --- 11.. was an awesome experience! Thanks!