Treatment Overview
Vertical Tummy Tuck in Korea, also known as a Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty, is a specialized tummy tuck procedure designed for patients with significant excess skin in both vertical and horizontal directions. Unlike the standard tummy tuck, which uses only a horizontal incision, the vertical tummy tuck involves a vertical incision along the midline in addition to the lower abdominal incision. This allows surgeons to remove larger amounts of skin, tighten the abdominal wall, and dramatically reshape the waistline and torso.
Korean plastic surgeons are highly experienced in post-weight loss and body contouring procedures, using scar-minimizing and tension-reducing suturing techniques. Many patients who undergo this surgery have had massive weight loss from bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes and are left with loose, hanging abdominal skin.
Purpose & Benefits
- Removes Large Amounts of Excess Skin: Ideal after massive weight loss.
- Two-Dimensional Tightening: Corrects both vertical and horizontal skin laxity.
- Flatter & Firmer Abdomen: Eliminates folds and sagging skin.
- Muscle Repair: Strengthens abdominal wall by suturing weakened or separated muscles.
- Improved Waistline Contour: Creates a slimmer, balanced silhouette.
- Boosts Confidence: Restores comfort in clothing and improves body image.
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with massive weight loss who have loose, hanging skin.
- Individuals with skin redundancy in both vertical and horizontal directions.
- Patients with sagging abdominal tissue extending above and below the belly button.
- Adults in good health and stable weight.
- Non-smokers with realistic expectations.
- Patients who have not achieved desired contour with a standard tummy tuck.
Possible Risks & Complications
- Visible scarring (vertical + horizontal), though managed with advanced Korean scar care.
- Swelling, bruising, and temporary tightness.
- Numbness or altered sensation in abdominal skin.
- Fluid accumulation (seroma).
- Delayed wound healing or infection (rare with proper care).
- Blood clots (prevented with early mobility and compression).
Surgical Techniques Used
- Horizontal Incision: Placed low along the bikini line.
- Vertical Midline Incision: Extends from the lower abdomen to above the belly button.
- Skin & Fat Removal: Excises large amounts of excess tissue.
- Muscle Tightening: Abdominal wall strengthened for firmness.
- Umbilical Repositioning: Natural belly button placement for proportionate results.
- Scar-Minimizing Closure: Fine sutures and advanced closure methods to reduce scar visibility.
Recovery & Aftercare
- 2–3 weeks: Bruising, swelling, and soreness improve.
- Compression garment worn for 6–8 weeks.
- 2 weeks: Resume office work and light daily activities.
- 6–8 weeks: Return to strenuous exercise and heavy lifting.
- 6–12 months: Scars mature and fade significantly with proper care.
Aftercare Guidelines:
- Sleep with torso elevated for 1–2 weeks.
- Avoid stretching incision areas early in recovery.
- Use silicone scar sheets or creams to minimize scar appearance.
- Regular follow-ups to monitor healing.
Results & Longevity
- Dramatic improvement in abdominal contour.
- Removal of large folds of skin for a smooth, toned look.
- Long-lasting results with stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
- Improved posture, comfort, and confidence.
- Scars fade over time but remain as a trade-off for major skin removal.
Treatment Process in Korea
1. Initial Consultation & Assessment
- Surgeons evaluate skin laxity and abdominal wall condition.
- Determine whether a standard, extended, or vertical tummy tuck is most appropriate.
2. Surgical Planning & Preparation
- Incision lines marked (horizontal + vertical).
- Choice of anesthesia: general anesthesia.
3. Surgery Day
- Horizontal and vertical incisions made.
- Excess skin and fat excised.
- Abdominal muscles repaired and tightened.
- Umbilicus repositioned naturally.
- Skin re-draped for smooth contour.
4. Post-Operative Monitoring
- Compression garment applied.
- Drains may be used to prevent fluid buildup.
- 1–2 night hospital stay is common.
5. Follow-Up & Refinement
- Follow-ups at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months.
- Scar management therapies (laser, microneedling) available.
Why Korea is a Top Destination
- Surgeons experienced in post-weight loss body contouring and vertical tummy tucks.
- Use of scar-minimizing techniques and advanced closure methods.
- Integration of liposuction with abdominoplasty for natural results.
- Internationally accredited clinics with English-speaking staff.
- Affordable compared to Western countries while maintaining premium safety standards.
Cost Range
The cost of Vertical Tummy Tuck in Korea varies depending on the extent of correction and clinic reputation.
- Standard Vertical Tummy Tuck: USD $9,000 – $12,000
- Vertical Tummy Tuck + Liposuction: USD $11,000 – $14,000
- Massive Weight Loss Patients (extensive correction): USD $12,000 – $16,000
- Premium Clinics (3D Imaging, VIP Aftercare, Scar Management): USD $14,000 – $18,000
Additional Costs:
- Consultation & imaging: USD $100 – $300
- Compression garments: USD $100 – $200
- Medications & aftercare: USD $100 – $300
Popular Clinics
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Specialists in post-weight loss abdominoplasty.
- ID Hospital (Seoul): Known for advanced vertical and extended tummy tucks.
- JK Plastic Surgery Center (Seoul): JCI-accredited, focusing on scar minimization.
- View Plastic Surgery Clinic (Seoul): Experts in tummy tuck + liposuction contouring.
- JW Plastic Surgery (Seoul): Customized Fleur-de-Lis abdominoplasty for natural results.
