Treatment Overview
Reverse Tummy Tuck in Korea, also called reverse abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the upper abdomen (above the belly button). Unlike a traditional tummy tuck that focuses on the lower abdomen, a reverse tummy tuck tightens and lifts the upper abdominal skin, often through incisions placed discreetly under the breasts or along the breast crease.
This procedure is ideal for patients with loose skin in the upper stomach area due to weight loss, aging, or previous surgeries. Korean plastic surgeons are highly skilled in combining a reverse tummy tuck with other contouring techniques, such as breast lift, breast augmentation, or liposuction, for more comprehensive results.
Purpose & Benefits
- Upper Abdominal Tightening: Targets loose or sagging skin above the navel.
- Improved Contour: Creates a smoother, firmer upper abdomen.
- Hidden Scarring: Incisions placed in natural breast creases.
- Combination Options: Can be paired with breast surgery or liposuction for 2-in-1 results.
- Post-Weight Loss Solution: Removes stretched skin that diet and exercise cannot fix.
- Confidence Boost: Improves clothing fit and restores youthful body proportions.
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with loose or sagging skin in the upper abdomen.
- Individuals after significant weight loss who have excess skin above the belly button.
- Women seeking a combined reverse tummy tuck + breast lift/augmentation.
- Adults in good health with stable weight.
- Non-smokers with realistic expectations.
Possible Risks & Complications
- Swelling, bruising, or soreness in treated areas.
- Scarring under the breasts (though well-hidden).
- Temporary numbness or skin sensitivity changes.
- Fluid buildup (seroma) or minor asymmetry.
- Delayed wound healing or infection (rare with proper care).
Surgical Techniques Used
- Incisions Under Breast Crease: Hidden in natural folds beneath breasts.
- Skin & Fat Removal: Excises sagging skin from upper abdomen.
- Tightening: Skin re-draped upward for firmer results.
- Optional Liposuction: Contours flanks or midsection for enhanced definition.
- Combination with Breast Surgery: Often performed with breast lift/augmentation for balanced results.
Recovery & Aftercare
- 1–2 weeks: Swelling and bruising improve.
- Compression garment or supportive bra may be worn for healing support.
- 1 week: Resume office work and light daily activities.
- 4–6 weeks: Return to full physical activity and exercise.
- 3–6 months: Final results visible as swelling subsides and scars mature.
Aftercare Guidelines:
- Keep upper abdomen supported during healing.
- Avoid lifting arms excessively in the first weeks.
- Follow scar care protocols (silicone sheets, creams, or laser).
Results & Longevity
- Flatter, smoother, and firmer upper abdomen.
- Youthful contour, especially when combined with breast surgery.
- Long-lasting results with stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
- Discreet scars hidden under breasts.
- Boost in body confidence and comfort.
Treatment Process in Korea
1. Initial Consultation & Assessment
- Surgeons assess upper abdominal skin laxity.
- Discussion of combining reverse tummy tuck with breast surgery or liposuction.
2. Surgical Planning & Preparation
- Incision placement planned along breast creases.
- Anesthesia chosen: typically general anesthesia.
3. Surgery Day
- Incisions made under breasts.
- Excess skin and fat removed.
- Skin tightened upward.
- Optional liposuction or breast surgery performed.
4. Post-Operative Monitoring
- Supportive bra or compression applied.
- Same-day discharge or short hospital stay.
- Aftercare instructions provided.
5. Follow-Up & Refinement
- Follow-ups at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months.
- Scar care treatments offered for refinement.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Surgeons specialized in scar-minimized abdominal surgery.
- Expertise in combined reverse tummy tuck + breast surgery.
- Use of advanced liposuction and skin-tightening methods.
- Clinics with state-of-the-art technology and international patient services.
- More affordable pricing compared to Western countries with premium standards.
Cost Range
The cost of Reverse Tummy Tuck in Korea depends on the extent of correction and whether it’s combined with other surgeries.
- Basic Reverse Tummy Tuck: USD $5,500 – $7,500
- Reverse Tummy Tuck + Liposuction: USD $7,000 – $9,500
- Reverse Tummy Tuck + Breast Lift/Augmentation: USD $9,000 – $13,000
- Premium Clinics (3D Imaging, VIP Aftercare, Scar Management): USD $10,000 – $15,000
Additional Costs:
- Consultation & imaging: USD $100 – $300
- Compression garment or supportive bras: USD $50 – $200
- Medications & aftercare: USD $100 – $300
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Specialists in body contouring and breast + abdominal surgery.
- ID Hospital (Seoul): Known for combined reverse tummy tuck with breast lift procedures.
- JK Plastic Surgery Center (Seoul): JCI-accredited, focusing on scar-minimized contouring.
- View Plastic Surgery Clinic (Seoul): Experts in upper abdominal tightening with liposuction.
- JW Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Offers customized reverse tummy tuck with natural breast shaping.
