You have done the hard part and lost the weight. But for a lot of people, what is left behind is an apron of loose skin and fat across the lower tummy that no amount of diet or exercise will shift. It can rub and cause rashes, make day-to-day hygiene difficult, get in the way of exercise, and chip away at your confidence.
What many patients do not realise is that underneath that skin, there is often a hernia they never knew they had.
In this situation a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is not a cosmetic operation. It is a medically indicated, reconstructive procedure that removes the excess skin, repairs the muscle wall, and fixes any hernia at the same time, so you can feel comfortable and supported in your body again.
1. Removes the apron of loose skin and fat After major weight loss the skin often will not shrink back on its own. I remove the redundant lower abdominal skin and tissue that causes rubbing, rashes and discomfort and gets in the way of everyday movement.
2. Repairs the separated stomach muscles Big changes in weight, and pregnancy, can stretch the abdominal muscles apart. This separation is called divarication. I bring these muscles back together in the midline, which rebuilds the strength and support in your core. Many patients find they are able to do things like sit-ups again once they have fully healed.
3. Repairs the hidden hernia Most patients are surprised to learn they have a hernia at all. Because I am a general surgeon, I can repair it during the same operation, reinforcing the weak area so it is far less likely to come back.
A hernia is a weak spot in the abdominal wall where tissue can push through. It can cause a bulge, discomfort or pain, and it often sits hidden beneath loose skin, so it goes unnoticed until it is examined. Finding and repairing it is one of the most important parts of this operation, and one of the reasons it is so much more than a cosmetic procedure. Doing everything in one operation also means one anaesthetic, one recovery, and a stronger long-term result.
The muscle repair is what really sets this apart from a tummy tuck done for appearance alone. Bringing the stomach muscles back together restores support to your core, which can help with posture, back comfort and everyday strength, not just the way things look.
A cosmetic tummy tuck is focused on appearance. This procedure is focused on function and comfort. Alongside removing the excess skin, I repair the muscle wall and any hernia, so the operation deals with the underlying problem rather than just the surface. For many patients that makes it a medically indicated procedure rather than an elective cosmetic one.
Step 1 — Careful planning
The incision is planned to sit low on the abdomen and to be as discreet as possible for your body shape.
Step 2 — Removing and reshaping
The excess skin and tissue is removed, and the area is reshaped to restore comfort and a natural contour.
Step 3 — Muscle and hernia repair
The separated muscles are brought back together, and any hernia is repaired securely at the same time.
Step 4 — Recovery and support
Small drains may be used for a short period to prevent fluid building up, and you will be given clear aftercare instructions and follow-up reviews.
As with any surgery there will be a scar, which sits low and settles over time, along with a recovery period. I will talk you through all of this honestly at your consultation so you know exactly what to expect.
For many patients this is not a cosmetic procedure. It is reconstructive surgery that improves comfort, function and long-term health.
Choosing surgery is a big decision, and you will not make it on your own. Our team is with you before, during and after the operation, including our bariatric GPs, dietitians, psychologists and surgical team. We will make sure you understand every step and feel supported the whole way through.
If you have been left with loose skin or an apron after weight loss and you are not sure whether a tummy tuck with hernia repair could help, the first step is a simple, no-obligation chat. We can talk through your situation, check for a possible hernia, and explain your options.
Book a complimentary 30-minute session with our Bariatric Navigator to ask your questions and find out if you may be a candidate, with no obligation.
Ready to go further? Call us to arrange a consultation with Dr Baxter to assess your abdomen and discuss the procedure in detail.
Closing: Monday 23rd December at 12:00 PM
Reopening: Monday 6th January at 8:30 AM
Wishing you and your loved ones a wonderful Christmas and a healthy, happy New Year! Thank you for trusting us with your health journey in 2024. We look forward to supporting you in achieving your wellness goals in 2025.
