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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 tummy tuck surgery
Recovery from abdominoplasty varies from person to person and depends on the extent of muscle repair, the amount of skin removed and whether additional procedures such as liposuction were performed at the same time. Your surgeon will provide personalised guidance based on your surgical plan and overall health.
What to expect
In the first few days after surgery, swelling, bruising and a sense of tightness across the abdomen are common. Many patients describe the discomfort as similar to strong muscle soreness due to the underlying muscle repair. Pain is generally well controlled with prescribed medication, and additional pain relief may be used at home if advised by your surgeon.
A compression garment or support corset is applied immediately after surgery. It must be worn for several weeks to reduce swelling, protect the muscle repair and support abdominal healing.
Most patients remain in the hospital for one to two nights so the surgical team can closely monitor early healing. Drainage tubes or an IV drip may be used initially and are typically removed before discharge.
As the abdomen has been tightened, you may naturally walk slightly bent at the waist for several days. Resting with your knees bent, such as using pillows beneath your thighs, helps reduce tension on the incision and improves comfort.
Swelling improves gradually, with most patients noticing substantial improvement within four to six weeks. Ongoing refinement occurs over the following months as the tissues soften and scars mature. Final results are typically visible between three and six months.
Activity and Movement
Light walking is encouraged soon after surgery to promote circulation and support recovery. However, strenuous exercise, running, core workouts, heavy lifting, and any activity that increases abdominal pressure should be avoided for at least four to six weeks, or until your surgeon advises otherwise.
Most patients can return to light work within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on their comfort level and the physical demands of their job.
Follow-up Care and Long-Term Results
Your surgeon will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing, remove drains if used and provide guidance on scar care, garment wear and safe progression of activity.
As the swelling continues to settle, your abdomen will appear flatter, firmer and more defined. With a stable weight and healthy lifestyle, results from a tummy tuck are long-lasting, often restoring comfort, core support and confidence in your appearance.
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?
PRICES STRAT FROM
£11,445
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 tummy tuck is the right option for you.
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Sometimes, the first signs of ageing appear around the eyes.
Excess skin or heaviness in the upper eyelids, or puffiness beneath the eyes, can make the face look more tired than it feels. Blepharoplasty is designed to address these changes with a careful, tailored approach to the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both.
The aim is not to change the eyes` appearance, but to restore a fresher, more open look while ensuring the result is natural and in harmony with the rest of the face.
As always, the most suitable surgical plan depends on the individual, their anatomy, and the underlying cause of their concerns.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
Foreheadplasty | Before & After
This type of surgery is less about changing a feature and more about restoring balance.
Where the forehead feels too dominant, lowering the hairline can alter the proportions of the upper face in a meaningful way. The procedure, often referred to as forehead reduction or hairline lowering, advances the scalp to reduce forehead height, with the plan carefully tailored to the individual.
As always, what matters most is choosing the right operation for the right reason, then allowing time for healing and scar maturation afterwards.
See the results for yourself.
Patient images shown with consent.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
The setting matters, but so do the people within it.
At Northwood Hospital, patients are supported by a team whose role goes far beyond logistics. Their priority is to create an environment that feels calm, professional, and reassuring from the moment you arrive.
Excellent surgical care is never delivered by one person alone. It depends on experienced theatre staff, nursing teams, hospital support, and clear communication at every stage.
This is the team that helps make that positive experience possible.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
Augmentation Mastopexy | Before & After
Over time, she felt her breasts had lost fullness, shape, and position. Her main concern was not simply size, but the way her breasts sat and the lack of support in the upper part of the breast.
We discussed the changes she had noticed and the type of result that would feel balanced for her figure. The plan was to restore upper fullness and improve breast position in a way that looked proportionate and in keeping with her frame. To achieve this, I combined a breast lift with implants, allowing both shape and volume to be addressed in the same operation.
Augmentation mastopexy is a procedure that requires precision and judgement. The tissues need to be managed carefully, and the surgical plan must be tailored to the individual anatomy, rather than following a standard formula.
The early result is only part of the process. The breasts will continue to settle, soften, and refine as they heal over time.
Patient images shown with consent.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
Abdominoplasty | Before & After
Changes to the abdomen can involve multiple concerns simultaneously. Excess skin, reduced abdominal wall support, and an altered overall contour can all affect how this area sits in relation to the rest of the body.
In this case, the aim of surgery was to improve the abdominal contour in a way that looked balanced and suited the individual. As always, this begins with a careful assessment, a clear plan, and an honest discussion about what surgery can realistically achieve.
Healing takes time. Swelling settles gradually, scars continue to mature, and the result refines over the following months.
Take a closer look at the result.
Patient images shown with consent.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
Not all facelift techniques work in the same way.
A deep plane facelift goes beyond the surface, releasing and repositioning the deeper facial tissues that have shifted with age. This allows the cheeks, jawline, and neck to be addressed more comprehensively, with results designed to look balanced and long-lasting.
The goal is not to create a different face, but to restore support, contour, and harmony while respecting the individual features already there.
The following facial rejuvenation procedures are available:
* Minimal incision browlift
* Deep plane facelift
* Deep neck lift
* Lower eyelid bleapharoplasty
* Upper eyelid bleapharoplasty
* Chin implant
* Cheek implants
* Lip lift
* Earlobe reduction
* Buccal fat reduction
* Fat transfer
* Full face CO2 resurfacing
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
Augmentation Mastopexy | Before & After
She consulted me because her breasts had lost shape, upper fullness, and position over time. Volume was a concern, but the main issue was that her breasts sat lower on her chest and no longer felt in proportion with her figure.
We discussed these changes and the kind of result that would feel right for her. The aim was not simply to increase size, but to restore better shape and support, while improving fullness in a balanced way. During surgery, I combined a mastopexy with implants to address both the position of the breast tissue and the loss of volume.
This type of surgery requires careful planning. Skin quality, tissue weight, implant choice, and breast position must all be considered to achieve a result that heals well and settles naturally.
Recovery requires patience. The breasts will continue to soften and settle over time, and scars will mature gradually over the following months.
No two patients have the same anatomy, which is why a detailed assessment and a clear surgical plan are always the first steps.
Patient images shown with consent.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#paulwilsonaesthetics #augmentationmastopexy #breastliftwithimplants #breastsurgerybristol #northwoodhospital
#HairlineLowering #BeforeAndAfter #paulwilsonaesthetics #northwoodhospital #hairlineloweringforeheadplasty
Happy Easter from Paul Wilson Aesthetics.
Taking a quiet moment to wish you a peaceful Easter weekend and a lovely break.
#paulwilsonaesthetics #happyeaster #northwoodhospital
Breast augmentation has been performed for decades and remains one of the most requested procedures in plastic surgery.
In the clinic, the reasons women seek breast augmentation are often very personal. Sometimes it`s about restoring lost volume after pregnancy or weight change. Sometimes it`s about feeling that proportions have never quite felt right.
It`s rarely just about choosing a size. We spend time looking at your natural shape, skin quality and overall balance. Small decisions during planning can make a significant difference to how everything settles over time.
I`m always make it clear that implants are not lifetime devices and that surgery should never feel rushed. The consultation is where we talk things through properly, including risks, recovery and what is realistically achievable.
For some patients, surgery is appropriate; for others, it may not be. That judgement matters.
If you`re considering breast augmentation and would like to have an open conversation about your options, please contact the clinic to arrange a consultation.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital | Wood MediSpa | St Joseph`s Hospital
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#breastaugmentationbristol
#bristolplasticsurgeon
#consultantplasticsurgeonuk
#breastsurgeryuk
#paulwilsonaesthetics
Behind the Treatment | Hairline Lowering
Hairline lowering is about proportion and balance.
For some patients, the concern isn`t hair loss, it`s simply that the forehead feels slightly longer than they would like. The procedure allows the hairline to be advanced in a controlled way so that it sits more comfortably within the overall facial structure.
The video shows the result immediately after surgery. At this stage, there will still be swelling, and the appearance continues to refine gradually as healing settles over the coming months.
Careful planning happens before any surgery takes place. We discuss the new hairline position in detail to ensure it suits the individual`s features and looks natural over time.
It`s not about dramatic change, it`s about subtle adjustment that brings everything into better proportion.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital | Wood MediSpa | St Joseph`s Hospital
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#hairlinelowering
#foreheadreduction
#bristolplasticsurgeon
#consultantplasticsurgeonuk
#paulwilsonaesthetics
Meet the Team | Karen
Karen is often the first person you`ll speak to when you contact the clinic.
She plays a central role in coordinating consultations and guiding patients through each stage of their journey. From arranging appointments to answering practical questions, Karen ensures the process feels organised and clear from the start.
Surgery can feel like a significant step, and having someone experienced and approachable at the other end of the phone can make all the difference. Karen works closely with Mr Wilson to ensure communication remains consistent and patients feel supported throughout.
🏥 Paul Wilson Aesthetics
📍 Northwood Hospital, Bristol, UK
📞 0117 332 1585 | 07480 125 890
📧 info@paulwilsonaesthetics.co.uk
#paulwilsonaesthetics #bristolplasticsurgeon #consultantplasticsurgeonuk #meettheteam #bristolclinic
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