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Weight fluctuations, pregnancy, ageing or genetics can stretch the abdominal muscles, loosen the skin and create stubborn areas of fullness that do not improve with diet or exercise. These changes may lead to abdominal bulging, skin laxity, or discomfort, affecting both body confidence and core support.
A tummy tuck is a targeted surgical procedure designed to address these concerns by removing excess loose skin, tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) and refining the surrounding tissues. Unlike liposuction, which only removes fat, a tummy tuck corrects both skin laxity and muscle separation to achieve a smoother, stronger and more contoured abdominal profile.
At Paul Wilson Aesthetics, Mr. Paul Wilson combines advanced surgical techniques with a personalised approach, tailoring each treatment to suit your unique needs.
About
What is an abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying abdominal muscles to create a firmer, flatter and more defined midsection.
Pregnancy, weight changes, ageing and genetics can lead to stretched skin, weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) and stubborn areas of fat that do not respond to diet or exercise. A tummy tuck addresses all of these concerns by restoring abdominal strength, smoothing the skin and enhancing overall contour.
The procedure is tailored to each patient, allowing your surgeon to focus on the specific areas that concern you most and achieve a natural, balanced result that aligns with your aesthetic goals.
Types
Types of tummy tuck surgery
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck focuses on the lower abdomen below the belly button. It removes a smaller amount of excess skin and tightens the lower abdominal muscles. This option is suitable for patients with mild skin laxity and minimal muscle separation.
Full (Standard) Tummy Tuck
Removes excess skin and fat from the upper and lower abdomen while tightening the full length of the abdominal muscles. The belly button is repositioned for a natural appearance. This is the most common approach for post-pregnancy or post-weight-loss patients.
Extended Tummy Tuck
Addresses the abdomen, flanks and lateral waist. By extending the incision laterally along the hips, this technique improves contour across the entire midsection and is ideal for patients with more significant skin laxity or excess tissue.
Fleur-de-Lis Tummy Tuck
Removes excess skin both vertically and horizontally, creating a more dramatic tightening effect. It is often recommended for patients who have lost a large amount of weight and have significant skin redundancy in the central abdomen.
360 Degree Tummy Tuck (Circumferential Body Lift)
This technique provides contouring of the abdomen, waist, lower back and buttock region. It lifts and tightens the entire midsection and is especially beneficial after major weight loss when extensive skin laxity is present.
Panniculetomy
A panniculectomy removes the “pannus,” or overhanging apron of skin and fat that hangs below the lower abdomen. Unlike a tummy tuck, it does not routinely tighten the abdominal muscles or reshape the upper abdomen. It is often performed for functional reasons, such as improving mobility, hygiene, or comfort and can be combined with a standard tummy tuck if aesthetic enhancement is also desired.
benefits
What are the benefits of tummy tuck surgery?
Abdominoplasty offers a range of aesthetic and functional benefits, including:
- A flatter, firmer abdominal contour
- Repair of weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), improving core strength and posture
- Reduction of bulging or abdominal laxity that cannot be improved with diet or exercise
- Smoother, tighter skin across the midsection
- Improved fit and comfort in clothing, especially around the waistline
- Relief from skin irritation or hygiene issues associated with a significant overhang
- Enhanced overall body proportions following pregnancy, weight loss, or ageing
- Increased confidence from achieving a more toned and refined abdominal appearance
candidates
Who is a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery?
A tummy tuck may be suitable for individuals who:
- Are in good overall health and at or near their ideal, stable weight
- Have loose or excess abdominal skin that does not respond to weight loss or exercise
- Experience muscle separation (diastasis recti) following pregnancy or weight changes
- Wish to improve abdominal contour and achieve a flatter, more supported midsection
- Are non-smokers or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
- Understand that abdominoplasty is not a weight-loss procedure, but a contouring surgery
- Have realistic expectations about the results, recovery and scar placement
- Do not plan future pregnancies, as this may affect long-term results
What to expect
What to expect during an abdominoplasty?
Consultation
During your consultation, your surgeon will carefully assess the abdomen, examining skin laxity, muscle tone, the presence of rectus muscle separation (diastasis recti) and the distribution of excess fat. Your medical history, lifestyle factors and aesthetic goals will be reviewed to determine which type of tummy tuck best suits your needs.
Your surgeon will explain how the procedure works, where incisions are likely to be placed, how the navel may be repositioned and what results you can expect. The recovery process, scar locations and postoperative care will also be discussed. Clinical photographs may be taken to assist with planning and guide the surgical approach.
This appointment is your opportunity to ask questions and feel fully informed and confident before moving forward.
Anaesthesia and Procedure Time
Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia. The length of the procedure depends on the type of tummy tuck being performed, whether muscle repair is required and whether liposuction is added to enhance contour.
A mini tummy tuck generally takes around one to two hours, while a full or extended abdominoplasty may take two to four hours. More complex procedures, such as a fleur-de-lis or 360° tummy tuck, may take longer due to the additional skin removal and reshaping involved. Your surgeon will confirm the expected duration based on your personalised treatment plan.
Surgery
During an abdominoplasty, a low, curved incision is made along the bikini line to keep scarring discreet. In a mini tummy tuck, the navel is left untouched, but in most full procedures, a second incision is placed around the belly button so it can be repositioned once excess skin is removed. This results in a small scar around the navel in addition to the lower abdominal scar.
If muscle separation (diastasis recti) is present, the rectus (“six-pack”) muscles are stitched back together to restore support and improve abdominal firmness. While the procedure flattens the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat, long-term muscle tone still depends on postoperative exercise.
Once the muscle repair is complete, the surgeon removes loose skin and fat and may use liposuction to refine the waistline or upper abdomen. The remaining skin is gently redraped, and the incisions are closed, creating a smoother, flatter abdominal contour.
Closure
Once the abdominal reshaping is complete, the incisions are closed using fine, absorbable sutures to support a smooth, precise finish. If the navel has been repositioned, a new opening is created to ensure it sits naturally within the tightened skin.
Dressings and a supportive compression garment are applied to minimise swelling and help the abdomen settle into its new contour. In some cases, temporary drains may be placed to prevent fluid build-up during the early stages of healing.
Recovery
Recovery and results of a rhinoplasty
Recovery varies from person to person and depends on the extent of surgery and whether the procedure was focused on cosmetic reshaping, functional breathing correction, or both.
What to expect
When you wake from surgery, small internal nasal packs may be in place to support the tissues during the early stages of healing.
If the nasal bones have been repositioned, a protective splint or cast will be fitted over the nose to support healing and maintain the newly refined shape. This is typically worn for around one week.
Swelling and bruising are most noticeable for the first few days and usually peak by day two or three. Bruising around the eyes is common and usually fades within 10 to 14 days.
Swelling resolves gradually in stages. Most of the swelling settles within the first three to four weeks, allowing the new shape of the nose to become clearly visible. However, finer swelling, particularly at the tip of the nose, can take several months to fully subside. The final definition continues to refine subtly over time as healing progresses.
Activity and movement
Light walking is encouraged soon after surgery to support circulation and reduce the risk of complications. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, bending and activities that significantly raise your heart rate should be avoided for at least two weeks, or as advised by your surgeon. Contact sports and any activity that risks nasal impact should be avoided for several weeks.
Follow-up care and long-term results
Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing and remove splints or sutures if required. As swelling continues to resolve, the nose’s shape becomes more refined over the following months.
Final rhinoplasty results are typically visible between three and six months, with continued subtle refinement for up to 15 months. Results are long-lasting and permanent once healing is complete.
Risks & complications
Risks and potential complications of tummy tuck surgery
As with any major surgical procedure, an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) carries certain risks. Potential risks may include:
- Infection
- Bleeding or haematoma (blood collection under the skin)
- Seroma (fluid build-up)
- Delayed wound healing
- Scarring, including hypertrophic or widened scars along the lower abdomen or around the navel
- Contour irregularities or asymmetry
- Complications related to muscle repair, such as tension or prolonged tightness
Your surgeon will discuss all potential risks with you during your consultation to ensure you are fully informed before making any decisions.
Fees
What is the cost of tummy tuck surgery in the UK?
The cost of tummy tuck surgery in the UK varies depending on the type of abdominoplasty performed, whether muscle repair is required, the amount of excess skin and fat being removed and the overall complexity of achieving a smooth, balanced result. Additional factors, such as hospital fees, anaesthesia and whether liposuction is incorporated, may also influence the total price.
A personalised quote will be provided after your consultation and once your surgeon has determined the most suitable surgical approach to achieve your goals.
Results
Tummy tuck surgery before and after photos
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any follow-up aftercare I need to do?
Yes. After your tummy tuck, you will attend scheduled follow-up appointments so your surgeon can monitor healing. Once you are fully healed and have returned to normal activities, maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise is recommended. Strengthening your core muscles through exercises such as Pilates or gentle abdominal workouts can help support long-term results and enhance abdominal tone.
Can you get a tummy tuck on the NHS?
In most cases, tummy tuck surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not routinely available on the NHS. Exceptions may be made in rare situations, such as significant skin overhang that causes persistent infections, hygiene issues, or functional impairment after major weight loss. Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis, and strict criteria apply.
How long do results from a tummy tuck last?
Tummy tuck results are long-lasting when supported by a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. The tightening of muscles and removal of excess skin is permanent, but future weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or significant changes in fitness can alter the outcome.
Do I have to wear a garment following my tummy tuck?
Yes, a compression garment is essential following a tummy tuck to ensure a safe and successful recovery. It serves several critical roles: it minimises swelling and bruising, prevents the formation of fluid pockets (seromas), and provides vital support to your repaired abdominal muscles. Furthermore, the constant pressure helps your skin adhere smoothly to its new contours, ensuring the flattest possible result. We suggest you wear it 24/7 for the first three to four weeks, only removing it to shower, followed by several weeks of part-time wear as your body continues to heal and “set” into its new shape.
Do I need Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) following my tummy tuck?
While not strictly mandatory, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is highly recommended to accelerate recovery and optimise the aesthetic results of a tummy tuck. By using a specialised, light-touch technique to move stagnant fluid toward healthy lymph nodes, MLD significantly reduces post-operative swelling, prevents the formation of “lumpy” scar tissue (fibrosis), and lowers the risk of fluid pockets called seromas. Most patients begin sessions within the first week of surgery to alleviate that “tight” feeling and promote smoother skin adhesion, though it is critical to use a therapist specifically certified in post-surgical care rather than a standard massage therapist.
Schedule your consultation
Book a consultation with Paul Wilson Aesthetics
Patients choose Paul Wilson Aesthetics not only for the team’s surgical expertise, but also for their thoughtful, honest and patient-centred approach to aesthetic care. To get started, book a consultation where our team will discuss your concerns, outline your goals and determine if a deep plane facelift is the right option for you.
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Precision in every detail. 👨⚕️✨
When it comes to Hairline Lowering Foreheadplasty, patients choose Mr. Paul Wilson for his advanced surgical expertise and dedication to natural-looking results.
How it works: 1️⃣ Personalised Planning: Mr. Wilson evaluates your facial structure and marks the new position for an aesthetically pleasing result. 2️⃣ Strategic Incision: Placed along the natural hairline to ensure minimal visibility, blending seamlessly into the surrounding hair. 3️⃣ Advanced Anchoring: The scalp is repositioned and anchored with the Endochor device (carpet gripper) to prevent tension and ensure long-lasting results. 4️⃣ Follicle Protection: Special care is taken to avoid disrupting hair follicles, maintaining healthy hair growth.
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✨ Creating Facial Harmony with Hairline Lowering ✨
Did you know that a high or receding hairline can make the forehead appear disproportionately large? Hairline lowering surgery, also known as forehead reduction, is a highly effective procedure designed to shorten the distance between the hairline and the eyebrows.
The goal? A more balanced, youthful, and proportional facial appearance. 🤝
At a Glance: ⏱ Treatment Time: 2 hours 💤 Anaesthesia: General anaesthetic 🏠 Recovery: 1 week 💼 Return to Work: 10 days ✨ Results: Long-term and transformative
By combining artistry with precision, Mr. Paul Wilson helps patients enhance their confidence through a seamless, satisfying journey.
🔗 Tap the link in our bio to learn more about this procedure or to book your consultation.
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Your home away from home during recovery. ☁️
We understand that for many patients, the environment is just as important as the procedure itself. Surgery can be a nerve-wracking experience, and the last thing you want is to wake up in a space that feels cold, clinical, or chaotic.
At Northwood Hospital, we have curated a space that prioritizes your peace of mind. 🌿
Take a walk through our patient wards with us: ✨ Private Sanctuaries: You’ll be staying in one of our 8 private rooms, designed with warm, neutral tones to keep you calm and relaxed. 🚿 Hotel-Style Comfort: With a pristine en-suite bathroom and luxury touches like @bramleyproducts pillow sprays and toiletries, you can freshen up in total privacy. 👩⚕️ Safety First: As you can see, the Nurses Station is located right in the heart of the ward. Our dedicated medical team is always just steps away from your door, monitoring your recovery 24/7.
It’s the perfect blend of medical excellence and boutique comfort. We want you to feel safe, supported, and completely looked after from the moment you check in to the moment you head home.
Have questions about the admission process or the facilities? Send us a DM or email info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk 📩
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“Not many people noticed... unless I told them.” 🤫✨
The goal of Hairline Lowering Foreheadplasty? Natural, balanced results that boost your confidence without shouting “surgery.”
We loved catching up with this patient to hear about her experience: ✨ Smooth recovery (even with two kids!) ✨ Discreet scarring ✨ Professional and calm care from Paul Wilson
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Precision in the O.R. with Mr. Paul Wilson 👨⚕️✨
Performing a complex Implant Exchange and Capsulectomy at Northwood Hospital, Bristol.
Surgery is often about problem-solving. In this specific case, we addressed a calcified implant within the right breast cavity. You can see the rigidity of the old device, which is ruptured upon removal, compared to the pristine nature of the new implants being inserted.
✅ Old implants removed ✅ Calcified capsule treated ✅ New implants placed via funnel technique
Restoring comfort and confidence.
For consultations in Bristol, click the link in bio. 🏥
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Precision in the O.R. with Mr. Paul Wilson 👨⚕️✨
Performing a complex Implant Exchange and Capsulectomy at Northwood Hospital, Bristol.
Surgery is often about problem-solving. In this specific case, we addressed a calcified implant within the right breast cavity. You can see the rigidity of the old device, which is ruptured upon removal, compared to the pristine nature of the new implants being inserted.
✅ Old implants removed ✅ Calcified capsule treated ✅ New implants placed via funnel technique
Restoring comfort and confidence.
For consultations in Bristol, click the link in bio. 🏥
#PlasticSurgeonUK #Bristol #NorthwoodHospital #BreastSurgery #SurgicalVideo #MedEd #SurgeonLife #ImplantRevision #paulwilsonaesthetics #breastimplant #Silimed #capsulectomy #breastaugmentation
Restoring shape, volume, and confidence.
Augmentation Mastopexy (often called a breast uplift with implants) is a dual-benefit procedure designed for patients who have lost breast volume—often due to weight loss, pregnancy, or breastfeeding—and require both lifting and refilling.
The Goal: Many patients come to me feeling their breast tissue has become “empty” or sits lower on the chest wall. A standard implant alone often isn’t enough to correct significant drooping (ptosis), and an uplift alone may not provide the upper-pole fullness many desire. By combining these techniques, we can: 1️⃣ Remove excess skin to lift the breast position. 2️⃣ Insert an implant to restore lost volume and firmness.
The Result: As seen in these before and afters, the outcome is a rejuvenated, natural silhouette that looks proportionate to the patient’s frame.
We plan every surgery with precision using Vectra 3D imaging during your consultation, allowing us to visualize the potential outcome together before you ever step into theatre.
— 👨⚕️ Consultant Plastic Surgeon: Mr. Paul Wilson 🏥 Location: Northwood Hospital, Bristol 📅 Consultations: Link in bio or DM to enquire —
Patient consent has been obtained for the use of these images. Individual results vary. Surgery requires downtime and carries risks which will be discussed in your consultation.
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Restoring form and volume in the OR today. 🏥
POV: You’re in the OR for a Breast Lift + Implant (Aug Mastopexy).
From the initial markings to the final dressing, precision is everything. We used a funnel insertion for maximum safety and minimal problems. The immediate on-table result shows a restored upper pole and a lifted profile. 🙌
Ready to reclaim your confidence? Click the link in bio to book your consultation. 📲. #paulwilsonaesthetics #plasticsurgery #breastaugmentation #breastlift #mommymakeover #cosmeticsurgery #surgeonlife #operatingroom
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Welcome to Northwood Hospital, Bristol! 🏥 We’re thrilled to introduce you to our state-of-the-art private hospital, nestled in the heart of Bristol.
At Northwood, we specialize in aesthetic surgery, offering a serene and luxurious environment for your journey. Our facilities boast 8 comfortable bedrooms, a dedicated daycase unit for minor procedures, and two advanced operating theatres, all designed with your comfort and safety in mind.
We are committed to providing exceptional care and personalized experiences, ensuring you feel supported and confident every step of the way. Discover the Northwood difference, where expertise meets elegance.
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🎥 Inside the OR with Dr. Paul Wilson
Watch as Consultant Plastic Surgeon Dr. Paul Wilson expertly places premium Silimed breast implants at Wood MediSpa — where precision meets artistry in a beautiful landscape.
Using state-of-the-art techniques and trusted implant technology, Dr. Wilson tailors every procedure to enhance natural shape and symmetry, always prioritizing patient safety and aesthetic excellence.
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🔹 Abdominoplasty – Functional and Reconstructive Benefits 🔹
This case highlights the functional benefits of abdominoplasty beyond aesthetic improvement. Abdominoplasty can significantly enhance core stability by repairing rectus diastasis, improve posture, and alleviate lower back discomfort associated with weakened abdominal musculature.
Patients may also experience improved mobility and tolerance for physical activity following reduction of excess abdominal tissue, which can lead to enhanced overall quality of life.
I am very grateful to this patient for kindly allowing me to share her clinical photographs. Her case exemplifies the reconstructive potential of abdominoplasty in the appropriate clinical context.
#Abdominoplasty #TummyTuck #RectusDiastasis #FunctionalSurgery #PostureImprovement #CoreReconstruction #PlasticSurgery #PatientOutcomes #SurgicalRestoration #ReconstructiveSurgery #paulwilsonaesthetics #NorthwoodHospital
✨ Breast Reduction Transformation ✨ This lovely patient kindly allowed me to share her results following breast reduction surgery. Reducing the size and weight of the breasts can dramatically improve posture, relieve neck and back pain, and restore confidence in everyday life. I’m incredibly grateful to her for allowing me to post these images and help others considering this procedure. Every patient’s journey is unique, and it’s always a privilege to be part of it. Performed by👨⚕️ Consultant Plastic Surgeon: Mr Paul Wilson #BreastReduction #ReductionMammoplasty #BeforeAndAfter #PlasticSurgeryUK #NorthwoodHospital #BristolSurgeon #BreastSurgery #ConfidenceBoost #BodyConfidence #RelieveBackPain #PostureRelief #PaulWilsonAesthetics #GratefulPatient #SurgicalResults #ConsultantPlasticSurgeon #LifeChangingSurgery #paulwilsonaesthetics
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