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Full tummy tuck abroad

A full tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes loose skin and fat from above and below the navel, tightens separated abdominal muscles and moves the navel to a new opening, through a low scar from hip to hip. It reshapes the abdomen but is not a way to lose weight. This page explains when the full operation fits better than a mini tummy tuck, and what having it abroad involves: the stay, the flight home and aftercare.

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Medically reviewed by Op. Dr. Arda Akgün. Written by Abdulaziz Ali.
Updated 31 August 2026 · Editorial standards

Full tummy tuck abroad at a glance

starting price, 17 June 2026from €3,150Treatment only
trips abroad1
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In this article

  1. Full tummy tuck abroad
  2. Full, mini or extended: which operation fits?
  3. Who a full tummy tuck suits
  4. What happens during the operation
  5. Risks and who treats a complication after you fly home
  6. How long to stay and when to fly home
  7. Recovery after a full tummy tuck
  8. What a full tummy tuck costs abroad and what the price covers

Full tummy tuck abroad

Comparing countries, prices and clinics for any type of tummy tuck? Start with tummy tuck abroad, which covers how destinations compare on cost and care. If you have already chosen Turkey, see full tummy tuck in Turkey.

Full, mini or extended: which operation fits?

  • Full tummy tuck. Loose skin above and below the navel, often with separated muscles; the navel is moved and the scar runs from hip to hip.
  • Mini tummy tuck. Loose skin below the navel only; the navel stays where it is and the scar is shorter. See mini tummy tuck.
  • Extended tummy tuck. Loose skin that also wraps round the hips or flanks; the scar runs further round the sides.
  • Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck. Adds a vertical scar to remove skin across the width of the abdomen, usually after major weight loss. See fleur-de-lis tummy tuck.

Your surgeon confirms the type after examining you.

Who a full tummy tuck suits

A full tummy tuck is meant for loose skin that exercise cannot remove, for example after pregnancy or after losing a lot of weight, often with stomach muscles that have separated. The NHS notes that it is usually only recommended for people with a healthy body mass index, and it is not a way to lose weight. If you plan more pregnancies or expect your weight to change a lot, ask your surgeon whether to wait, because both can undo the result.

What happens during the operation

The operation is done under general anaesthetic and usually takes between 2 and 5 hours. The surgeon makes a cut across the lower tummy from hip to hip, just above the pubic area, frees the navel with a second cut around it, lifts the skin from the abdominal wall, stitches the separated muscles together, removes excess skin and fat, and brings the navel out through a new opening. The NHS says most people stay in hospital for a few nights.

Risks and who treats a complication after you fly home

How long to stay and when to fly home

Plan to stay near the clinic until your surgeon has checked the wound and removed any drains, and do not book the flight home until your surgeon confirms you are fit to fly. Air travel and major surgery both raise the risk of blood clots, and NHS advice is not to fly for 7 to 10 days after a tummy tuck. Ask what the clinic advises for the journey, such as walking, compression stockings or injections to thin the blood. General travel advice is on our tummy tuck abroad page.

Recovery after a full tummy tuck

According to the NHS, you will need about 4 to 6 weeks off work and exercise, and you will usually wear a corset or support garment for about 6 weeks. It is normal to find it hard to stand up straight at first, and numbness of the tummy can last for months. Driving waits a few weeks; your surgeon and insurer can advise. Arrange a check of the wound with a doctor at home, and keep the clinic's notes on what was done.

What a full tummy tuck costs abroad and what the price covers

The starting price at the top of this page is marked Treatment only. Ask each clinic in writing what it covers: surgeon, anaesthesia, hospital nights, compression garments and check-ups. Flights are never included. Budget for extra hotel nights while you recover, medicines after discharge and, if a problem needs treatment, a second trip.

Disclosure: Op. Dr. Arda Akgün, who medically reviewed this page, is listed as lead doctor at Luna Clinic Turkey and Istanbul European Clinic, two clinics shown on it. Flymedi is a marketplace; the order of the clinic list is set by Flymedi and explained under How ranking works.

Real results: before and after

Photos supplied by the clinics that performed the treatment, with patient consent. Each photo is credited to its clinic.

See all 11 results

What patients say How we collect reviews

Reviews left by patients treated through Flymedi for this treatment. Each one is written in the patient's own language.

H.· Full tummy tuck✓ Verified

5.0 · 8 March 2025

I had a full tummy tuck after a massive weight loss journey. There was loose skin that no amount of gym time would fix, and this surgery was the final step for me. Recovery was a bit of a process, but the support I got from the clinic made it easier. I’m finally proud of my body

O.· Full tummy tuck✓ Verified

5.0 · 20 May 2023

The Flymedi doctors were great, the clinic was very clean. Happy with the resullts

E.· Full tummy tuck✓ Verified

5.0 · 9 May 2023

Can't praise Flymedi enough. Surgeon was amazing, and thanks to this beautiful crew

N. from Hungary· Full tummy tuck✓ Verified

5.0 · 26 November 2022

Even though I was healthier last year after losing a lot of weight, my skin never fully recovered. That's why I came for this surgery, I found Flymedi when I thought it wasn't happening anymore. Loves from here, and I'd like to thank my flymedi consultant for answering all of my questions and for the amazing operation we had with my doctor!

10 reviews

Frequently asked questions

Answers from the medical content team, reviewed by the medical reviewer named on this page.

How is a full tummy tuck surgery performed?
The surgery is performed under general anaesthetic. Your surgeon makes a horizontal incision between your pubic hairline and belly button, and a second incision around the navel to reposition it. The surgeon then tightens the underlying abdominal muscles and removes excess skin and fat before closing the incisions with stitches.
How long is the full tummy tuck procedure?
The surgery typically takes between 2 and 5 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
How many days will I spend in the hospital?
Most people stay in hospital for a few nights after a full tummy tuck. Your surgeon decides when you are ready to leave.
What is the recovery timeline for a full tummy tuck?
Plan on about 4 to 6 weeks off work and exercise. It takes about 6 weeks to recover fully, and you will usually wear a support garment for that time. Avoid heavy lifting until your surgeon says it is safe.
When can I return to work after the surgery?
Most people need about 4 to 6 weeks off work after a full tummy tuck; a physically demanding job can take longer.
What should I avoid before the surgery?
Stop smoking well before and after your operation, as your surgeon advises. Also avoid medicines such as aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs that can increase bleeding. Your surgeon will provide a detailed list.
Will I have a scar after a full tummy tuck?
Yes, a full tummy tuck leaves a permanent scar across the lower tummy and a scar around the belly button. It is placed low so it can usually be hidden by underwear or a bikini bottom, and it fades over 12 to 18 months.
Is a full tummy tuck painful?
You will experience some pain, soreness and discomfort after the surgery, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. The most significant discomfort usually subsides within the first week.
What are the potential side effects?
Swelling, bruising, soreness and numbness of the tummy are common after a full tummy tuck. The risks, from blood clots to slow wound healing, and who treats them once you are home, are explained in the risks section of this page.
How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?
The results can last for many years, provided you maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. Future pregnancies or significant weight gain can alter the results.
What affects how satisfied people are with a full tummy tuck?
Results depend on realistic expectations, a stable weight before surgery and after it, not smoking, and whether you plan more pregnancies. Your surgeon should show you how much change is possible for your body at consultation.
What is the difference between a full and a mini tummy tuck?
A full tummy tuck addresses excess skin and muscle laxity above and below the belly button and involves repositioning the navel. A mini tummy tuck is less invasive and only targets the area below the belly button.
Can I combine a tummy tuck with other procedures?
Yes, a tummy tuck is often combined with other procedures such as liposuction or a breast lift in a mummy makeover.
What kind of garment will I need to wear after surgery?
You will usually wear a special compression garment, corset or abdominal binder for about 6 weeks. This helps reduce swelling, supports the healing tissues and helps your skin settle into its new shape.
When will I see the final results?
You will notice a flatter tummy straight away. The NHS says it takes about 6 weeks to recover fully and see the full effect, and the scar keeps fading for 12 to 18 months.
When can I fly home after a full tummy tuck?
Only when your surgeon has checked the wound, removed any drains and confirmed you are fit to fly; NHS advice is not to fly for 7 to 10 days after a tummy tuck. Ask what to do on the flight to lower the risk of blood clots.

Related Flymedi pages

TechniquesMini tummy tuck
Pre-op guidePlastic surgery
Other locationsColombiaSpainHungaryMexicoPolandThailandTurkey

References

  1. NHS. Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). Page last reviewed 29 September 2023.
  2. NHS. Cosmetic surgery abroad. Page last reviewed 14 December 2022.
  3. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Tummy tuck risks and safety.
  4. British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS). Cosmetic surgery abroad.

About this page

Written by Abdulaziz Ali, Leading Medical Writer & Strategist at Flymedi. Medically reviewed by Op. Dr. Arda Akgün. Content updated 31 August 2026. Next scheduled review 31 August 2027.

This page is general information, not personal medical advice. It does not diagnose you and it does not replace an individual assessment by a doctor who has examined you.

Found something wrong or out of date on this page? Tell us and we will check it. Editorial standards and reviewer list: authors and reviewers.

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