Treatment Overview
Extended Tummy Tuck in Korea, also known as an extended abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat not only from the front abdomen but also from the flanks and sides of the waist. It is especially effective for patients who have undergone significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging, resulting in skin laxity that extends beyond the midsection.
Korean plastic surgeons are internationally recognized for their skill in body contouring and scar-minimizing techniques. By combining an extended tummy tuck with liposuction or even a buttock lift, Korean clinics provide comprehensive reshaping that enhances both the front and sides of the torso for a slimmer, more youthful silhouette.
Purpose & Benefits
- Removes Excess Skin: Targets sagging skin across the abdomen and flanks.
- Muscle Tightening: Repairs weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti).
- Extended Contouring: Improves waistline, hips, and lower belly in one procedure.
- Better Posture & Comfort: Strengthens abdominal wall for core stability.
- Boost in Confidence: Improves body proportions and clothing fit.
- Long-Lasting Results: Skin and fat removal is permanent with stable weight.
Ideal Candidates
- Men or women with loose abdominal skin extending to the sides or flanks.
- Patients after pregnancy, major weight loss, or bariatric surgery.
- Individuals with weakened abdominal muscles.
- Adults in good health and stable weight.
- Non-smokers with realistic expectations.
Possible Risks & Complications
- Swelling, bruising, and temporary tightness in abdomen and flanks.
- Visible scarring (though placed low along the bikini line).
- Fluid accumulation (seroma).
- Numbness or altered sensation in treated areas.
- Delayed healing or infection (rare with proper care).
- Blood clots (prevented with post-op mobility).
Surgical Techniques Used
- Extended Incision: Longer horizontal incision running from hip to hip, extending to the flanks.
- Skin & Fat Removal: Excises loose tissue from abdomen and waistline.
- Muscle Tightening: Sutures used to strengthen abdominal wall.
- Lipo-Abdominoplasty (optional): Liposuction added for enhanced sculpting.
- Scar-Minimizing Closure: Fine sutures placed low for discreet bikini-line scars.
Recovery & Aftercare
- 2–3 weeks: Bruising and swelling gradually improve.
- Compression garment worn for 4–6 weeks to reduce swelling and support healing.
- 1–2 weeks: Return to light daily activities.
- 4–6 weeks: Resume exercise and heavy lifting.
- 3–6 months: Final results visible as scars mature and swelling subsides.
Aftercare Guidelines:
- Sleep with torso slightly elevated for 1–2 weeks.
- Avoid stretching or twisting waist excessively during recovery.
- Use scar care treatments (silicone sheets, creams, or laser therapy).
Results & Longevity
- Flatter, tighter abdomen with smoother waistline.
- Improved body proportions and silhouette.
- Long-lasting results with stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
- Permanent removal of excess skin and fat.
- Scars fade significantly with proper care and time.
Treatment Process in Korea
1. Initial Consultation & Assessment
- Surgeons evaluate abdominal and flank laxity.
- Discussion of whether extended or full abdominoplasty is needed.
2. Surgical Planning & Preparation
- Marking of incision lines across abdomen and sides.
- Choice of anesthesia: general anesthesia.
3. Surgery Day
- Extended incision made along lower abdomen and flanks.
- Excess skin and fat removed.
- Abdominal muscles tightened.
- Optional liposuction for refined contouring.
- Scar carefully sutured low for discreet placement.
4. Post-Operative Monitoring
- Compression garment applied immediately.
- Drains may be placed temporarily to prevent fluid buildup.
- Hospital stay: usually 1 night for monitoring.
5. Follow-Up & Refinement
- Follow-ups at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months.
- Scar management treatments available for best results.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Surgeons with expertise in extended abdominoplasty and body contouring.
- Advanced scar-reduction and tension-reducing suturing techniques.
- Use of liposuction-assisted abdominoplasty for smoother results.
- Internationally accredited clinics with English-speaking staff.
- Affordable compared to Western countries, with world-class safety standards.
Cost Range
The cost of Extended Tummy Tuck in Korea depends on extent of correction and whether liposuction is included.
- Standard Extended Tummy Tuck: USD $7,000 – $9,500
- Extended Tummy Tuck + Liposuction: USD $9,000 – $12,500
- Post-Weight Loss Patients (extensive correction): USD $10,000 – $13,500
- Premium Clinics (3D Imaging, VIP Aftercare, Scar Management): USD $12,000 – $16,000
Additional Costs:
- Consultation & imaging: USD $100 – $300
- Compression garment: USD $100 – $200
- Medications & aftercare: USD $100 – $300
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Specialists in extended abdominoplasty and liposuction.
- ID Hospital (Seoul): Known for post-weight loss extended tummy tuck procedures.
- JK Plastic Surgery Center (Seoul): JCI-accredited, focusing on natural body reshaping.
- View Plastic Surgery Clinic (Seoul): Experts in extended tummy tucks with scar refinement.
- JW Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Customized extended abdominoplasty with liposuction.
