In this guide7 sections
An hourglass tummy tuck — also known as hourglass abdominoplasty — is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to achieve a more defined waistline and hourglass figure. It involves removing excess fat and skin from the abdomen, tightening the abdominal muscles, and shaping the hips and waist with fat transfer to create an hourglass shape. The procedure is performed under TIVA (total intravenous anaesthesia) and takes several hours to complete. Recovery time can vary, but patients are typically able to return to work and light activities within a few weeks. As with any surgery, there are risks and benefits to consider before undergoing an hourglass tummy tuck.
It is essential to discuss these with a qualified plastic surgeon at Centre for Surgery to determine if this procedure is right for you. An hourglass tummy tuck is similar to a Brazilian tummy tuck, which involves 360 liposuction and a full tummy tuck. An hourglass tummy tuck goes one step further with the addition of fat transfer to the hips to achieve bigger hips and a smaller waist.
Benefits of Hourglass Tummy Tuck
The core aim of hourglass tummy tuck (hourglass abdominoplasty): a defined waist-to-hip contour rather than simple fat and skin removal — Centre for Surgery, London.
An hourglass tummy tuck offers numerous benefits to those seeking to improve the contour and appearance of their midsection. This specialised cosmetic procedure not only targets excess fat and skin but also aims to achieve a more defined waistline and enhanced overall body proportions. Here are the key benefits:
Enhanced Waistline Contour
One of the most notable benefits of an hourglass tummy tuck is the creation of a more defined and aesthetically pleasing waistline. The procedure is designed to sculpt the waist, giving it a more pronounced hourglass shape. By removing excess fat and skin from the abdomen and cinching the waist, the result is a more attractive and balanced body contour.
Improved Abdominal Tightness
During an hourglass tummy tuck, the surgeon tightens the abdominal muscles. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced muscle separation due to pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations. Tightened abdominal muscles provide better core strength and support, improving posture and reducing the likelihood of back pain.
Reduction of Excess Skin and Fat
The procedure effectively removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. This is especially advantageous for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight or have excess skin from multiple pregnancies. The removal of this excess tissue results in a smoother and flatter abdominal profile.
Enhanced Overall Body Proportion
An hourglass tummy tuck not only focuses on the abdomen but also considers the overall body proportion. By creating a more defined waist, the procedure helps enhance the curves of the hips and buttocks, leading to a more balanced and proportional figure. This can significantly improve the overall silhouette and boost body confidence.
Increased Confidence and Self-Esteem
Achieving a more toned and attractive midsection can have a profound impact on an individual’s self-confidence and self-esteem. Many patients report feeling more comfortable in their clothing and more confident in social and intimate settings. The positive change in body image can also encourage a healthier lifestyle and greater motivation to maintain the results.
Long-Lasting Results
When combined with a healthy lifestyle, the results of an hourglass tummy tuck can be long-lasting. Maintaining a stable weight, following a balanced diet, and engaging in regular exercise can help preserve the contour and tightness achieved through the procedure. The investment in an hourglass tummy tuck can provide enduring benefits that enhance one’s quality of life.
Customised Surgical Approach
An hourglass tummy tuck is tailored to meet each patient’s specific needs and goals. Surgeons take into account the individual’s body type, the amount of excess skin and fat, and the desired outcome. This personalised approach ensures that the results are natural-looking and harmonious with the rest of the body.
Compared with a traditional tummy tuck, an hourglass tummy tuck is a three-step procedure. The first step involves 360 liposuction to reduce the circumference of the waist and torso, with the elimination of excess fat affecting the flanks. After 360 liposuction, the tummy tuck step of the procedure will be performed. The fat collected during liposuction is processed and purified to remove oil and water. The processed fat is then reinjected into the hips during the third step of the procedure.
Is a Plus Size Hourglass Tummy Tuck Possible?
A plus size hourglass tummy tuck is a genuinely common enquiry, and the honest answer is: it depends on your individual BMI and health profile, assessed properly rather than by a fixed cut-off. As with any body contouring surgery, a higher BMI generally means a higher risk of complications, so your surgeon will assess your specific circumstances at consultation rather than ruling anyone out on weight alone. For some plus size patients, a staged approach — addressing weight and fitness first, or combining the procedure with more conservative fat transfer volumes — may be recommended to achieve the safest, most predictable result. If you’re considering a plus size hourglass tummy tuck, the most useful first step is an honest, in-person consultation rather than researching a generic BMI threshold online, since suitability genuinely varies by individual anatomy and health.
Hourglass Tummy Tuck Procedure
The three surgical steps that make up an hourglass tummy tuck — Centre for Surgery, London.
The hourglass tummy tuck is a multi-step procedure, performed under TIVA anaesthesia. The following is a general outline of the surgical steps involved in an hourglass tummy tuck:
- Anaesthesia: Before the procedure begins, the patient will receive TIVA (total intravenous anaesthesia) to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free during the surgery — a modern, safer approach than traditional general anaesthetic gases.
- 360 liposuction – The surgeon may perform circumferential liposuction around the torso using PAL lipo to remove excess fat from the waist to create the hourglass shape.
- Tummy tuck incision: The surgeon will make an incision near the pubic area, just above the pubic bone. The incision is usually made in a way that can be concealed by underwear or a swimsuit.
- Abdominal muscle tightening: The surgeon will then tighten the abdominal muscles, which can help improve the appearance of the abdominal area.
- Excision of excess skin: The surgeon will remove any excess skin and fat from the abdomen.
- Repositioning of the belly button: The belly button may need to be repositioned to match the new shape of the abdominal area.
- Closure of the tummy tuck incisions: The incisions will then be closed using sutures or staples.
- Fat transfer to the hips: the fat removed with liposuction is injected into the hips to enhance hip volume and improve the waist-to-hip ratio. Women can achieve the hourglass silhouette with this procedure. Hip dips can be corrected with fat transfer.
- The sterile dressings are applied, and the patient will be wrapped in a compression garment to help reduce swelling and support the surgical area.
How Will My Belly Button Look After Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Belly button repositioning during hourglass tummy tuck surgery — Centre for Surgery, London.
In full and extended abdominoplasty surgery, a new belly button will need to be created after the skin is pulled down. The original belly button will be released from its original location and secured in the new location once the surgeon has removed all the excess skin and fat. Our surgeons are well known for their specialist expertise in umbilicoplasty, using advanced methods customised to each patient to ensure natural results.
In mini tummy tucks, your original belly button will be preserved.
Hourglass Tummy Tuck Recovery
A typical hourglass tummy tuck recovery timeline — Centre for Surgery, London.
Recovering from an hourglass tummy tuck involves a period of rest and limited activity, with the duration and specifics varying from person to person. Here are detailed guidelines to help you through the recovery process:
Pain and Discomfort
After the procedure, it’s common to experience some pain and discomfort around the surgical area. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage this discomfort. It’s essential to take the medication as directed to stay comfortable and aid in your recovery. Over time, the pain will gradually decrease.
Swelling
Swelling is a normal part of the healing process following an hourglass tummy tuck. To help reduce swelling, you should wear a compression garment as recommended by your surgeon. This garment helps to support the surgical area and promote proper healing. Additionally, elevating the surgical area whenever possible can further reduce swelling.
Rest
Rest is crucial during the first few days after your surgery. Plan to take it easy, avoiding any strenuous activities or heavy lifting. Resting allows your body to heal properly and reduces the risk of complications. Ensure you have a comfortable space to relax, and follow any specific instructions your surgeon provides regarding resting positions.
Follow-Up Appointments
Attending follow-up appointments with your surgeon is essential. These appointments allow your surgeon to monitor your progress, assess your healing, and address any concerns you may have. It’s essential to keep these appointments and communicate openly with your surgeon about your recovery.
Resuming Normal Activities
Most patients can return to work and light activities within a few weeks after the procedure. However, it’s crucial to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for several weeks. Your surgeon will provide guidance on when it is safe to increase your activity level gradually. Following these recommendations helps ensure a smooth recovery and reduces the risk of complications.
Wearing a Compression Garment
Wearing a compression garment is an important part of the recovery process. You will need to wear this garment for several weeks after the procedure. It helps to reduce swelling, support the surgical area, and improve your overall comfort during the healing period. Follow your surgeon’s instructions for properly wearing and caring for the compression garment.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
While the initial recovery period is crucial, maintaining the results of your hourglass tummy tuck involves long-term care. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a stable weight are essential to preserving the benefits of the procedure. Your surgeon may provide specific recommendations for exercises or lifestyle changes to help you maintain your new body contour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an hourglass tummy tuck?
An hourglass tummy tuck (hourglass abdominoplasty) is a three-step body contouring procedure combining 360 liposuction, a full tummy tuck, and fat transfer to the hips — designed specifically to create a defined waist-to-hip contour, rather than simply removing excess skin and fat.
Is an hourglass tummy tuck the same as a Brazilian tummy tuck?
They’re closely related but not identical. A Brazilian tummy tuck combines 360 liposuction with a full tummy tuck. An hourglass tummy tuck goes one step further, adding fat transfer to the hips specifically to enhance the waist-to-hip ratio and create a more pronounced hourglass silhouette.
How much does an hourglass tummy tuck cost?
Hourglass tummy tuck cost varies by patient, since it’s a bespoke, multi-step combination procedure — the price depends on the extent of liposuction required, the amount of fat transfer, and whether any additional procedures are combined at the same time. Our tummy tuck cost page gives baseline pricing context, and your surgeon will provide a personalised quote following consultation.
Can I have a plus size hourglass tummy tuck?
Possibly — suitability depends on your individual BMI and overall health rather than a fixed weight limit. Your surgeon will assess your specific circumstances at consultation to determine whether you’re a safe candidate, and may recommend a staged approach in some cases.
Where can I see hourglass tummy tuck before and after results?
The most reliable source is directly from the clinic performing your surgery. Ask to see hourglass tummy tuck before and after photos from your own surgeon at consultation, ideally from patients with a similar starting body shape to yours.
How long is hourglass tummy tuck recovery?
Most patients return to work and light activities within a few weeks, while avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for several weeks longer. Full recovery, including the final settled contour, typically takes around 6 to 8 weeks.
Where can I get an hourglass tummy tuck in the UK?
Hourglass tummy tuck UK providers vary considerably in experience, since this is a more technically demanding, multi-step procedure than a standard tummy tuck. Centre for Surgery’s Baker Street clinic in London is CQC-regulated and rated “Good” overall, with plastic surgeons experienced specifically in this combined technique. When comparing any hourglass tummy tuck UK clinic, it’s worth confirming your surgeon’s specific experience with the full three-step procedure, not just standard abdominoplasty.
Hourglass Tummy Tuck at Centre for Surgery
Centre for Surgery is a specialist plastic surgery clinic and is home to experienced plastic surgeons in London. Our surgeons have spent many years perfecting their tummy tuck techniques. The hourglass tummy tuck is one of the more comprehensive forms of tummy tuck surgery. The procedure involves 360 liposuction, a full tummy tuck and fat transfer to the hips to achieve that beautiful hourglass silhouette you have always desired.
Call us today on 020 7993 4849 to learn more about the benefits of an hourglass tummy tuck at our modern Baker Street clinic in Marylebone, serving patients from across the UK.
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