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Short answer: A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal wall after major weight loss or pregnancy. In Istanbul it is performed by plastic surgeons in licensed hospitals; patients usually stay 7–10 days. Buşra Nur Özger (BNÖ Health) specialises in post-bariatric body contouring and plans the surgeon, hospital, stay and recovery for you.
Full tummy tuck or fleur-de-lis (FDL)?
A full abdominoplasty removes horizontal excess skin below the navel through a low hip-to-hip incision and tightens separated abdominal muscles. After large weight loss (typically 30 kg or more) there is often vertical excess too; a fleur-de-lis (FDL) abdominoplasty adds a vertical incision so skin can be removed in both directions. The surgeon decides which technique suits you after examining skin quality and the amount of excess tissue.
Who is a good candidate?
- Weight has been stable for at least 6–12 months (12–18 months after bariatric surgery)
- BMI generally under 32–35 for safe surgery and good results
- Non-smoker or willing to stop 4 weeks before and after surgery
- No uncontrolled medical conditions; nutrition levels (protein, iron, vitamins) corrected after bariatric surgery
The procedure and hospital stay
The operation takes 2–4 hours under general anaesthesia and is often combined with liposuction of the flanks. You stay 1–2 nights in hospital and wear a compression garment for about 6 weeks. Drains, if used, are removed before you fly.
Your journey with Buşra Nur Özger
- Photo-based pre-assessment and surgeon review
- Written plan: technique, dates, inclusions
- VIP transfer, hotel near the hospital, patient assistant
- Surgery and hospital stay, daily dressing checks
- Fit-to-fly check and aftercare plan at home
Recovery timeline
- Week 1: walking slightly bent, rest, dressing checks
- Weeks 2–3: back to light desk work; swelling is normal
- Week 6: most daily activity, garment removed on surgeon advice
- 3–6 months: scar matures and fades; final shape settles up to 12 months
Combining procedures (post-bariatric body contouring)
Many patients combine a tummy tuck with a breast lift, arm lift or thigh lift in staged sessions. Staging is decided with the surgeon for safety; we plan the sequence and the timing between trips.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I stay in Istanbul for a tummy tuck?
Usually 7–10 days, including 1–2 nights in hospital and follow-up checks before you fly home.
Does a tummy tuck remove stretch marks?
Stretch marks on the skin that is removed (below the navel) disappear with it; marks above the navel are moved lower but remain.
When can I fly after abdominoplasty?
Typically 7–10 days after surgery, once the surgeon confirms wound healing and drains are removed.
Is a tummy tuck painful?
Discomfort is strongest in the first 3–4 days and is controlled with medication; muscle repair makes the first week the most tender.
How visible is the scar?
The incision is placed low so it sits under underwear or swimwear; FDL adds a vertical scar that fades over 12–18 months with scar care.
Want a personalised assessment? Send a few photos and your medical history through our online consultation form; our team reviews it with the surgeon and calls you back with a plan.