Before and after galleries show how an extended approach reshapes more than the central abdomen. They reveal change across the flanks, lower back and the quality of the skin, helping viewers to see the full scope of abdominoplasty outcomes.
Readers learn what transformative results mean clinically: improved waist definition, firmer abdominal contours and scar placement that sits low to be hidden by underwear or swimwear. The Cadogan Clinic shares extensive galleries from mini to full, Brazilian and extended techniques, all performed in a purpose-built hospital on Sloane Street.
UK patients review these images to assess a surgeon’s aesthetic style and consistency across ages and body types. Prospective journeys often begin with gallery research, then move to in-person assessment where suitability and procedural planning are confirmed.
Safety and support are highlighted by high surgical volumes and 24/7 nurse-led aftercare, which helps patients set realistic expectations about swelling, scar maturation and varied results that depend on skin elasticity and prior weight changes.
Key Takeaways
- Gallery images illustrate wider contour change beyond the central abdomen.
- Transformative results focus on waist definition, firmness and low scars.
- Patients use photo sets to judge surgeon style and consistency.
- Clinical context and 24/7 aftercare at reputable clinics boost confidence.
- Outcomes vary with skin elasticity, tissue distribution and weight history.
See extended tummy tuck before and after results at a glance
A well-selected photo set helps viewers spot consistent improvements in waist shape and skin quality. Curated galleries give a clear, visual summary of what abdominoplasty can achieve for the whole body.
What our tummy tuck photos reveal about real patient outcomes
Look for quick wins: refined waist, low scar lines, improved umbilical appearance and smoother abdominal planes with balanced proportion. Standardised poses and lighting make these changes obvious in like-for-like comparisons.
Galleries that show diverse ages and body types let a viewer estimate how results may translate to their own skin and anatomy. Photos also reveal subtle contour gains around the flanks and lower back after an extended approach.
From initial consultation to aftercare: how results are achieved
The initial consultation uses reference images so a patient can point to desired outcomes or features to avoid. This refines the surgical plan and sets realistic goals.
On the day of surgery a clear pathway and a 24/7 nurse-led aftercare team support recovery. Images that include early swelling, bruising and later scar evolution help manage expectations and reduce anxiety.
- Check portfolio consistency across multiple cases for repeatable quality.
- Review scar placement to see if lines sit low and fade well over time.
- Bring questions from gallery observations to make the most of the consultation.
What is an extended tummy tuck (extended abdominoplasty)?
An extended abdominoplasty is a comprehensive operation that aims to remove excess skin and tissue across the lower abdomen, the flanks and often the lower back. It reshapes the midriff to create smoother lines and improved waist definition.
How it differs from a full tummy tuck and mini abdominoplasty
Incision length and scope
The key difference lies in reach. A full tummy tuck addresses the central abdomen with a long low incision. A mini option treats limited lower abdomen laxity with a shorter cut and no extensive muscle repair. The wider approach uses a longer incision that extends toward the hips to treat lateral tissues.
Typical steps and adjuncts
Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon elevates the abdominal flap, repairs the rectus muscles when needed and re-drapes skin to remove excess. Liposuction is often added to refine stubborn fat around the waist and flanks for a balanced contour.
Areas treated and expected outcomes
Treated areas include the lower abdomen, love-handle regions and sometimes the lower back to deliver a cohesive shape. Results depend on skin quality, thickness of subcutaneous tissue, prior weight loss and the surgeon’s technique. Many patients seeking correction after weight change or pregnancy find functional and cosmetic benefit.
| Approach | Incision | Muscle repair | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini abdominoplasty | Short, lower abdomen | Rare above umbilicus | Minor lower excess |
| Full tummy tuck | Low, hip-to-hip | Common | Central abdominal laxity |
| Extended abdominoplasty | Long, extends to flanks | Common | Wider redundant skin and contouring |
How to assess extended tummy tuck before and after photos
Careful scrutiny of surgical photo sets helps viewers judge consistent quality rather than isolated highlights. Look for multiple cases from the same surgeon to confirm repeatable outcomes.
Consistency, scar placement and belly button aesthetics
Low, well concealed scars that sit inside underwear or bikini lines are a good sign. Scar maturation matters; older images show true fading.
Check the umbilicus for natural oval shape, subtle shadowing and minimal visible scarring.
Patient positioning, lighting and surgeon’s aesthetic sense
Photos should use the same poses and lighting so results are honest. Inconsistent angles can exaggerate change.
Waist definition, symmetry and skin tightening indicators
Healthy tightening shows smooth abdominal planes without an over-pulled look. Symmetry of the midline and balanced transitions to the flanks signal precise tissue handling.
- Review lateral silhouette for improved flank definition versus standard full tummy examples.
- Scan for balanced upper and lower abdomen outcomes and consistent hip contouring.
- Compare early recovery images with long-term shots to distinguish swelling from final results.
Quick checklist
Consistent portfolio, low scar lines, natural umbilicus, comparable photos, balanced contouring.
Who is a good candidate after weight loss or pregnancy?
A practical starting point for anyone thinking about body contour surgery is confirming steady weight and overall fitness for operation. Candidates typically hold a stable weight for at least six months and aim for a BMI under 30 to reduce complication risk.
Suitability criteria: stable weight, BMI guidance and health status
Good general health and realistic expectations are essential. Prospective patients must disclose medications; aspirin or similar drugs raise bleeding risk and should be discussed with the surgeon.
Smokers should stop at least four weeks before the procedure to improve healing and lower wound problems.
Common concerns: excess skin folds, rashes, stretchmarks and love handles
Typical presentations after weight loss or childbirth include redundant lower abdominal folds, flank bulges, persistent stretchmarks and irritation beneath skin folds. These issues often lead people to seek surgical correction.
- Both men and women may be suitable; anatomy and symptoms guide the choice.
- Where lateral skin excess is marked, a longer incision and wider contour work may be recommended over a central-only approach.
- If diastasis recti is present, repair can improve abdominal support and overall appearance.
Candidacy is confirmed during a consultation where medical history, lifestyle and goals are reviewed and a tailored plan is proposed. Stable long-term weight maintenance is important to preserve results.
What to expect during tummy tuck surgery
Patients receive a clear plan at consultation that outlines the operation, anaesthetic and recovery pathway. The team explains how the surgical approach is tailored to remove excess skin and reshape the waist, flanks and lower abdomen for balanced contour.
Anaesthesia, incision design and muscle repair
General anaesthesia is commonly used so the person is comfortable throughout. On the day there is admission, marking of incision lines and a final check with the anaesthetist.
The incision runs low across the lower abdomen and curves towards the hips to access lateral tissue. The surgeon elevates the skin and fat layer, inspects the rectus muscles and repairs diastasis when needed. The umbilicus is repositioned for a natural appearance.
Excess skin and fat are removed, and layers are closed with dissolvable sutures. Drains may be used selectively, depending on surgeon preference and the amount of tissue treated.
Combining liposuction or breast lift for enhanced contour
Liposuction is often added to refine fat on the waist and flanks. This improves transitions and helps the overall shape where skin excision alone cannot address isolated fat deposits.
Where safe, a breast lift can be combined in the same session to achieve a coordinated result for the upper and lower body. Many UK centres follow day-case pathways and will discharge a patient the same day when criteria are met, with clear instructions and a direct contact route for any immediate concerns.
- Expect: pre-op marking, general anaesthesia and theatre monitoring.
- Incision: low, hip-curving line to conceal scarring in underwear.
- Adjuncts: selective liposuction and optional breast lift when suitable.
- Safety: infection control, DVT prophylaxis and anaesthetist-led care.
Recovery, healing and scar maturation timeline
The first fortnight after an abdominoplasty sets the pattern for healing and final results. The early days focus on protection of the repair, pain control and careful mobility to reduce risks. Patients must follow clinic guidance on posture, short walks and garment use to support tissues while swelling begins to fall.
Days one to five: mobility, garments and pain control
Short, frequent walks help circulation while an abdominal binder limits movement that strains the incision. Pain is commonly managed with prescribed analgesics; tightness with coughing or standing is normal. Dressings and any drains need daily checks and prompt reporting of increasing redness or unusual fluid.
Weeks two to six: activity limits, driving and gym
No driving for two weeks is standard. Gradual household tasks can begin after two weeks, but heavy lifting and gym work should wait until cleared at the six-week review. Many return to low-impact desk work within two to four weeks, while manual roles need longer restriction to protect the repair.
Swelling resolution and scar visibility over time
Swelling usually improves over 3–6 months as contour refines and weight stabilises. Scars start pink and gradually fade; maturation continues beyond six months. Adherence to compression, scar care and scheduled reviews—particularly the six-week assessment—helps achieve predictable outcomes.
| Phase | Key actions | Typical timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate | Compression, short walks, pain control | Days 1–5 |
| Early recovery | Gradual activity, no driving, wound checks | Weeks 2–6 |
| Medium term | Swelling reduction, scar care, six-week review | 3–6 months |
Results, longevity and maintaining your new contour
The most striking outcome is a more defined silhouette when weight is steady. An extended abdominoplasty often delivers a flatter abdomen, cleaner waist transitions and a better fit for tailored clothing.
These cosmetic results are durable if a patient avoids major weight fluctuations. Once excess skin is removed, the new contour remains stable with sensible diet and regular activity.
Functional gains include reduced irritation beneath skin folds and easier movement for exercise. Some patients report improved confidence and comfort in daily life.
- Scar maturation continues for months; compression, scar creams and sun protection help optimise appearance.
- Fat cells can grow with weight gain, so healthy habits preserve the surgical contour.
- Some choose later complementary treatments, such as targeted liposuction or a breast lift, to refine results.
Routine follow-up appointments allow tailored maintenance advice. Results vary with baseline anatomy, skin behaviour and adherence to post-operative guidance. Reviewing late-stage images helps set realistic expectations as swelling subsides.
| Outcome | Typical benefit | Timeframe | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flatter abdomen | Reduced excess skin and smoother plane | Visible at 3–6 months | Stable weight, core exercise |
| Improved waistline | Cleaner hip transitions and proportion | Refines over 6–12 months | Liposuction if minor residual fat |
| Functional relief | Less rubbing, easier activity | Within weeks to months | Skin care, gradual exercise |
| Scar evolution | Fades but matures slowly | 12–18 months | Compression, topical care, sun avoidance |
Costs, finance and what’s included in your quotation
A transparent quote removes surprises and clarifies what post-operative support is included. Prices vary with the scope of surgery, the need for liposuction, and a patient’s general health.
What a typical UK quotation covers
- Surgeon fee, anaesthetist fee and operating facility charges.
- Nursing care, routine dressings and scheduled post-op visits.
- Use of hospital-grade recovery spaces and standard equipment.
Surgeon, anaesthetist, facility and aftercare fees
Quotations should list each element clearly so a patient can compare clinics. Comprehensive aftercare and 24/7 clinical support are integral to a quality package, not optional extras.
Finance options available in the UK
Many clinics offer staged payments or third-party plans. Providers such as Chrysalis Finance often supply 0% options for eligible applicants, which help spread cost without added interest.
| Cost element | Typical inclusion | Why it matters | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surgeon fee | Pre-op planning, operation time | Experience affects safety and results | Ask about surgeon volume and outcomes |
| Anaesthesia & facility | Anaesthetist, theatre, recovery | Hospital-grade care reduces complication risk | Check if overnight stay is included |
| Aftercare | Follow-ups, dressings, nurse access | Supports recovery and scar monitoring | Ensure emergency contact details provided |
| Adjuncts | Liposuction, drains, compression garments | Alters complexity and price | Clarify if these are itemised |
Practical tips: request an itemised quote, review cancellation and revision terms, discuss single‑session combinations versus staging, and seek insurance guidance for complication cover. Book a consultation early to align budget with clinical advice.
Why choose a specialist UK clinic for tummy tuck procedures
Experienced surgical teams and purpose-built hospitals in the UK support safer, predictable tummy contour surgery. Leading centres combine consultant-led pathways with high surgical volumes to improve outcomes and patient confidence.
Dedicated facilities use hospital-grade theatres, modern equipment and strict infection-control measures. This reduces complication risk and supports complex abdominoplasty work when tailoring contour across the waist and flanks.
Experienced surgeons, state-of-the-art facilities and patient-centric care
Surgeons work with anaesthetists and specialist nurses to plan each procedure. Comprehensive consultations set realistic expectations about scars, timelines and likely results.
Safety protocols and comprehensive post-operative support
Pre-assessment, DVT measures and close anaesthetic monitoring are standard. Many clinics, such as the Cadogan Clinic and Centre for Surgery, offer 24/7 nurse access for early recovery reassurance.
Prospective patients should check surgeon credentials, clinic accreditation and published photo portfolios to confirm consistent standards across different body shapes and weight histories.
| Feature | What to expect | Why it matters | Clinic example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Consultant-led care | Senior surgeon oversight | Safer decision-making, better results | Centre for Surgery |
| Hospital facilities | Theatre, recovery bays, infection control | Lower complication rates | Cadogan Clinic |
| Aftercare | 24/7 nurse access, follow-ups | Faster issue resolution, supported recovery | Local specialist centres |
Conclusion
A final overview ties surgical aims, recovery needs and long‑term maintenance into one practical summary.
An extended tummy tuck offers wider correction of lax tissue across the lower abdomen and flanks to refine the waistline. Standardised photo galleries remain useful for judging a surgeon’s consistency and setting realistic expectations.
Candidacy rests on stable weight, good general health and willingness to follow pre‑op and post‑op guidance. The procedure typically uses general anaesthesia, a long low incision, routine muscle repair when needed and selective liposuction to refine transitions.
Recovery milestones include compression, staged activity increases and scheduled reviews to monitor healing. Results last best with weight maintenance and sensible lifestyle habits.
Patients are advised to choose UK centres with experienced teams, robust aftercare and clear finance options, and to arrange a consultation to personalise the plan and review relevant galleries.
