Abdominoplasty and Hernia Repair

For patients after weight-loss surgery, injectables, or post-pregnancy

Many people experience loose skin, separated abdominal muscles (divarication), or small abdominal wall hernias after significant weight loss or pregnancy.

In these situations, an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is not a cosmetic operation—it is a medically indicated reconstructive procedure designed to restore function, reduce discomfort, and repair the abdominal wall.

What an Abdominoplasty Involves?

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Removing excess skin and soft tissue
After major weight loss or pregnancy, the skin and underlying fatty tissue may not retract. This can cause rashes, discomfort, difficulty with exercise, and hygiene issues. During surgery, I remove the redundant lower abdominal skin and reshape the abdominal wall to restore comfort and function.

Repairing separated abdominal muscles (divarication)
Pregnancy and significant weight changes can stretch the rectus muscles apart. This creates abdominal bulging, weak core strength, back pain, and posture issues. The operation brings these muscles back together in the midline, creating a stronger, flatter abdominal wall.

Repairing abdominal wall hernias
Small hernias—especially para-umbilical or umbilical hernias—are common after pregnancy or weight change. During your abdominoplasty, I repair the hernia at the same time, reinforcing the weakened area so it does not recur.

Understanding the Anatomy

The abdomen is made of layers of muscle, fascia, and skin. When the central line (linea alba) stretches or tears, the muscles separate—this is divarication.

What Happens in Muscle Repair

During the operation, the muscles are gently brought back together and secured in their natural position. This improves core stability, posture, and abdominal strength.

Hernia Repair

A hernia is a weakness in the abdominal wall. It may cause a bulge, discomfort, or pain. Repairing it during the abdominoplasty means one operation, one recovery, and a stronger long-term result.

How the Procedure is Performed

Step 1 — Careful planning

Incision design is tailored to minimise visibility and suit your body shape, usually sitting low on the abdomen.

Step 2 — Skin and tissue reshaping

Redundant skin is removed, and the remaining tissues are tightened to create a natural contour.

Step 3 — Muscle and hernia repair

Separated muscles are repaired, and any hernia is fixed securely at the same time.

Step 4 — Reconstruction

The belly button is preserved and repositioned naturally.
Drains may be used for a short period to prevent fluid accumulation.

Who This Procedure Helps Most

Patients who have lost weight through bariatric surgery, injectables, or structured programs
Women after pregnancy with muscle separation
Individuals with abdominal bulging, rashes, or discomfort
Patients with a medically indicated hernia repair required at the same time
Those who want to restore functional strength, core stability, and confidence

This is not a cosmetic procedure in these situations—it is reconstructive, medically necessary surgery for many patients.

Your Journey With Us

We know that choosing surgery is a significant decision. Our entire team is here to support, encourage, and guide you through each step—before, during, and after the operation. You will have ongoing contact with our multidisciplinary team including bariatric GPs, psychologists, dietitians, and our surgical team.

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule a free 30-minute appointment with our Bariatric Navigator to find out more or book a specialist consult if you are ready to take the next step.

Free Consult

Book a complimentary session with our Bariatric Navigator to get all your questions answered – no obligations.

Surgery or treatment

Call us to schedule an appointment with a surgeon or discuss weight loss medication with our GP.