What is a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and tightens the underlying muscles to create a flatter, firmer, better-contoured abdomen. It is one of the most transformative body contouring procedures available, particularly for patients who have experienced significant changes to the abdomen following pregnancy, major weight loss, or simply the natural effects of ageing and gravity. Diet and exercise, however disciplined, cannot remove loose skin or repair separated abdominal muscles — only surgery can achieve this.
Dr. Galati designs each abdominoplasty individually. He evaluates the amount of excess skin and fat, the degree of rectus muscle separation (diastasis recti), the position of the navel, and the natural anatomical landmarks that determine where incisions should be placed. The result is a flatter, smoother abdomen with a scar that is concealed within the underwear or swimwear line.
Full tummy tuck vs. mini tummy tuck
- Full abdominoplasty: addresses the entire abdomen, from the lower ribcage to the pubic area. The navel is repositioned. Excess skin is removed and the rectus muscles are repaired with permanent internal sutures. Best for patients with significant skin laxity above and below the navel.
- Mini tummy tuck: a shorter incision corrects excess skin and laxity limited to the area below the navel only. The navel is not repositioned. Suited to patients with mild lower abdominal skin excess and no significant muscle separation.
- Extended abdominoplasty: extends the correction around to the flanks and lower back, useful after massive weight loss when lateral skin excess is also present.
Surgical technique and muscle repair
A full abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia and takes approximately 2–3 hours. A low horizontal incision is made across the lower abdomen, the abdominal skin and fat are elevated, and the rectus abdominis muscles are sutured together in the midline to repair diastasis — this step is crucial to restoring both the aesthetic and functional integrity of the core. Excess skin is removed, the navel is repositioned through a new opening, and the incisions are closed in layers. One or two small surgical drains are placed to reduce fluid accumulation and are removed within 5–7 days.
Recovery timeline
- Days 1–5: hospitalisation or close monitoring; drains in situ; movement assisted and encouraged early to reduce DVT risk
- Day 5–7: drain removal; transition to abdominal binder / compression garment
- Week 2–3: sutures removed; light household activities possible; walking encouraged
- Week 3–4: most patients return to desk work; compression garment continues
- Week 6–8: compression garment discontinued; light exercise can resume
- Month 3–6: swelling fully resolved; scar softening and fading
- Month 12: final, definitive result; scar at its palest
It is important to reach a stable body weight before abdominoplasty and to avoid future pregnancies, as these can undo the results of the procedure.
Tummy tuck in Italy — why choose Dr. Galati?
Italy offers world-class plastic surgery in a high-quality healthcare environment. Dr. Galati's board certification, two decades of experience, and meticulous surgical technique make him a trusted choice for patients across Europe and beyond. His clinics in Lecce, Parma and Milan are equipped with modern operating theatres and dedicated recovery facilities. He welcomes international patients and will personally coordinate pre-operative preparation, surgery and post-operative care to ensure a smooth, well-supported experience from first contact to final result.
Write to info@clinicachirurgiaplastica.it or call +39 320 300 5007.
Frequently asked questions
Ideal candidates are at or near their target weight and have excess abdominal skin, weakened muscles (diastasis recti), or persistent fat deposits unresponsive to diet and exercise. Women should ideally not be planning further pregnancies after the procedure.
Drains are removed at 5–7 days. Sutures come out at 14–21 days. A compression garment is worn for 6–8 weeks. Most patients return to desk work within 3–4 weeks. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 6–8 weeks.
The main incision runs horizontally across the lower abdomen just above the pubic area — hidden by underwear or swimwear. A small incision is also made around the navel. Both scars fade to a fine pale line over 12–18 months.
Yes. It is frequently combined with flank liposuction or breast surgery (a "Mummy Makeover") for comprehensive body contouring. Dr. Galati will recommend the safest and most effective combination for your goals.