Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)

Thinking about having an abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and repairs the separation of the abdominal muscles, which is common after pregnancy or significant weight loss.

From: 7.000 €

Cirugía de abdominoplastia
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Surgery duration:

2 to 4 hours

Recovery time:

9 to 13 days

Synapta® protocol:

Included in Barcelona

Anesthesia:

General

Hospital stay:

1 or 2 nights

Social life:

9 to 13 days

What is an abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a body surgery procedure designed to improve the contour of the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat and strengthening the abdominal muscles, especially when this area shows sagging, bulging or loss of firmness after pregnancy, weight changes or the passage of time.

This procedure helps you regain a firmer, flatter abdomen, improve your body shape and achieve a more balanced, rejuvenated look, with a natural, proportionate result that preserves each patient's own body shape.

Types of abdominoplasty

Full abdominoplasty

Indicated for patients with significant excess skin and muscle laxity. It corrects the entire abdomen, from below the chest to the pubic area, repositioning the navel and strengthening the abdominal wall.

Abdominoplastia completa

Mini abdominoplasty

Recommended when the excess skin and sagging are concentrated in the lower abdomen. It is a less invasive surgery, with a faster recovery and, in most cases, no need to move the navel.

Miniabdominoplastia

Abdominoplasty with liposuction

Combines the removal of excess skin with liposuction to improve the overall contour of the abdomen and waist, achieving a slimmer, more defined result.

Abdominoplastia con liposucción

Abdominoplasty, explained on video

What does cosmetic abdominal surgery involve?

Abdominoplasty begins with a horizontal incision just above the pubic hairline, through which the surgeon releases the skin and fatty tissue from the abdominal wall. Once the rectus abdominis muscles are exposed, internal sutures are placed to tighten the muscles (correcting the diastasis), the excess hanging skin is removed and, in many cases, a small additional incision is made to reposition the navel. Finally, the remaining skin is pulled downward to achieve a flat, firm stomach, the wound is closed with fine sutures and a compression garment is fitted to control swelling during recovery.

01

Personalized medical assessment

Valoración personalizada

Your consultation will be with the surgeon who will perform your procedure. A payment of €80 is required in advance to book the appointment. If you cannot travel, the first visit can also be done by video call with the surgeon who would operate on you: it costs €50, which is deducted if you decide to have surgery.

02

Preparing for the surgery

Preparación de la intervención

Personalized planning of the procedure to ensure a safe, balanced result tailored to your body.

03

The surgery

El Dr. Orestes Fernández operando

Surgery is performed in accredited operating rooms by the Instituto's body surgery team.

04

Comfortable recovery

Comfortable recovery

In Barcelona we apply the Synapta® protocol to make recovery after abdominoplasty easier.

05

Start seeing yourself the way you want to feel

Cirugía corporal

Once your procedure is complete, you will notice a firmer abdomen, a more defined figure and a significant boost in your confidence and well-being with your body image.

Abdominoplasty with Synapta®: an easier recovery

For years, this surgery has been associated with a recovery marked by a feeling of tightness, swelling and some discomfort in the treated area. However, advances in medical protocols now make it possible to approach recovery from a more advanced perspective.

At Instituto de Benito we apply Synapta®, a protocol designed to support the body through its recovery process after surgery, helping to make the experience more manageable and controlled.

How is recovery after surgery improved?

Beyond the conventional use of medication, this approach focuses on the body's neurophysiological response after surgery. Through specific techniques, it aims to modulate inflammation, reduce tissue tension and improve the body's adaptation to the surgical change.

  • Control of tissue tension: After surgery, the tissues reorganize and can create a feeling of tightness. The protocol helps reduce this tension, allowing a more gradual adaptation.
  • Improved tissue environment: Tissue oxygenation and drainage are promoted, which helps to reduce initial swelling and optimize the healing process.
  • Gradual, functional recovery: The goal is not to speed things up artificially, but to support the body so that recovery is more balanced, allowing you to return to your daily routine gradually and safely.
These protocols are part of a process in which post-operative well-being matters as much as the aesthetic design. Each case is assessed individually to tailor the instructions to each patient.

*Synapta® is included in surgeries performed in Barcelona.

Carlos Alsina

Preparation and recovery for an abdominoplasty

Before surgery

Before an abdominoplasty, a personalized medical consultation is essential to study your case and your state of health and to define the most suitable technique. This stage includes:

  • Full medical history and physical examination
  • Preoperative medical tests (blood tests, electrocardiogram, etc.)
  • Assessment of the abdomen and personalized surgical planning
  • Recommendations on medication, smoking and habits before surgery

You will also receive all the instructions you need to prepare for the procedure with complete safety and peace of mind.

Before surgery

After surgery

After the abdominoplasty, a period of gradual recovery begins, during which:

  • Swelling and a feeling of tightness are normal during the first few days
  • You will need to wear an abdominal compression garment for the time indicated by your surgeon
  • Medication will be prescribed to control discomfort and prevent infection
  • You will be able to gradually resume light activities; social life, between 9 and 13 days

In Barcelona we apply the Synapta® protocol to make the post-op period more manageable.

Postoperatorio de la abdominoplastia

How much does an abdominoplasty cost and what is included?

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) at Instituto de Benito starts from €7,000. The price varies depending on the type of technique (mini abdominoplasty, full abdominoplasty or abdominoplasty with liposuction), whether or not abdominal diastasis is repaired, the length of the procedure, the nights of hospital stay and the tests and follow-up included, and is tailored to each patient.

What the treatment plan includes:

  • Specialist surgeon's fees
  • Fees for the rest of the medical team and the anesthesiologist
  • Materials specified in the quote
  • Operating room and a hospital stay of 1 or 2 nights
  • General anesthesia
  • Private room stay if required
  • Medication during the hospital stay
  • Wound care with the nursing team and removal of drains when they are used
  • One Synapta® Method session for procedures performed in Barcelona
  • Follow-up visits with the specialist
  • Preoperative tests (blood work, ECG, X-ray, etc.)

What is not included:

  • Assessments or clearances from other specialists, if needed
  • Medication after hospital discharge
  • Post-surgical garments (abdominal compression garment), unless otherwise specified
  • Additional recovery treatments beyond the included session (extra Synapta® sessions, lymphatic drainage, physiotherapy, laser, etc.)
  • Costs arising from medical complications not attributable to the surgical procedure
  • Reoperations or touch-up surgeries not initially planned
  • Additional unplanned hospital stays
  • Travel, accommodation or meals for the patient and companions
  • Sick leave, certificates or additional administrative paperwork
  • Any material or procedure not expressly specified in the quote

You can finance this procedure at 0% interest for up to 12 months, with options that can be extended to 48 months. See the terms on our financing page.

*Prices valid in 2026. The exact price is given after the visit, once the surgeon has assessed your case.

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Abdominoplasty before and after photos

Resultado de una abdominoplastia
dermolipectomía antes de ser operada

Núria, 42, Madrid

Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)

Cirugía combinada mommymakeover (abdominoplastia + aumento pecho)
Cirugía combinada mommymakeover (abdominoplastia + aumento pecho)

Merche, age 51, Barcelona

Combined surgery (Breast augmentation + Tummy tuck)

El resultado tras una cirugía de abdominoplastia
El resultado antes de una cirugía de abdominoplastia

Mari, age 55, Barcelona

Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)

Antes: Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
Después: Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)

Montse, age 46, Barcelona

Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)

abdominoplastia maria despues
abdominoplastia maria antes

Maria, 39, Madrid

Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)

evolucion de una paciente tras una cirugia de abdominoplastia
evolucion de una paciente tras una cirugia de abdominoplastia

Martina, age 39, Barcelona

Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)

Are you a good candidate for abdominal surgery?

Abdominoplasty is indicated for people who want to improve the contour of the abdomen, remove excess skin and regain muscle firmness in a lasting way, when these results cannot be achieved through diet, exercise or non-surgical treatments alone.

It is especially suitable if:

  • 01

    Excess skin after pregnancy or weight loss

    When the abdomen shows significant sagging that cannot be corrected with exercise or aesthetic treatments.

  • 02

    Bulging abdomen due to muscle diastasis

    If the abdominal muscles are separated and cause a protruding belly, even in slim people.

  • 03

    Sagging and loss of abdominal firmness

    When the skin has lost elasticity and the abdomen looks droopy or saggy.

  • 04

    Difficulty defining the abdomen

    If, despite leading a healthy lifestyle, you cannot improve your abdominal contour.

  • 05

    Wanting a lasting change

    If you are looking for a real, stable improvement in the shape of your abdomen and your figure.

  • 06

    Physical or aesthetic discomfort

    When excess skin causes discomfort when getting dressed, moving or carrying out everyday activities.

Who is not a suitable candidate: contraindications for abdominoplasty

Although abdominoplasty is a safe procedure when performed by qualified surgeons and after a proper preoperative assessment, there are situations in which surgery may be contraindicated or may need to be postponed. The priority must always be the patient's safety and achieving a stable, lasting result.

ContraindicaciónMotivo
People with poorly controlled chronic diseases (cardiovascular, pulmonary, liver or kidney).The surgical and anesthetic risk may be significantly higher.
Patients with significant obesity or a weight far from their goal.Results may be less satisfactory and the risk of complications increases.
Women planning a pregnancy in the short or medium term.Pregnancy can stretch the abdominal wall again and compromise the results achieved.
Smokers who are not willing to stop smoking for at least 4 weeks before and 4 weeks after.Smoking increases the risk of wound-healing problems, infections and skin necrosis.
Patients with clotting disorders or a history of thrombosis that is not adequately controlled.There is a higher risk of bleeding and thromboembolic complications.
People with active infections or significant inflammatory conditions.Surgery must be postponed until the medical problem has fully resolved.
Patients with unrealistic expectations about the result.Abdominoplasty improves the abdominal contour, but it does not replace weight loss or guarantee aesthetic perfection.
People with uncontrolled psychological conditions that may affect how they perceive the result.It is essential to ensure appropriate expectations and emotional stability before surgery.
Patients with poorly controlled diabetes.It can increase the risk of infection and delay healing.
People who cannot follow the post-op recommendations or who lack support during the initial recovery.Following the post-op care instructions is key to a safe recovery.

Regain a firmer, more defined abdomen

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Risks and possible side effects of abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty has a well-established safety profile when performed by specialized surgeons. All our procedures are carried out in an accredited operating room, with anesthesia and monitoring by a qualified anesthesiologist and following strict safety protocols.

If, after surgery, you experience severe pain that does not improve with the prescribed medication, a fever above 38 °C, progressive redness of the wound, discharge, excessive swelling, opening of the scar, difficulty breathing, chest pain or sudden swelling in one leg, contact the clinic immediately or go to the nearest emergency department. Most serious complications can be treated effectively if they are detected early.

Expected, mild reactions

These symptoms are part of the body's normal response to surgery:

  • Moderate pain and a feeling of abdominal tightness during the first few days, which can be controlled with the prescribed pain medication.
  • Swelling and edema in the abdominal area, especially during the first few weeks.
  • Mild bruising around the treated area, which usually fades gradually.
  • A feeling of tension when sitting up or walking upright during the first few days.
  • Temporary changes in sensation in the skin of the abdomen, especially below the navel.
  • Tiredness or fatigue during the first week after surgery.
  • A scar that is initially pink or more visible, and that will gradually mature over the following months.
  • Mild asymmetries or temporary irregularities related to swelling and the healing process.

All of these reactions are part of the normal recovery process. Most patients can resume light everyday activities within one or two weeks and gradually return to their routine as advised by their doctor.

Less common effects

There is a second group of issues that, while not considered serious, can arise during recovery and are worth knowing about:

  • Seroma (a buildup of fluid under the skin), which may require drainage at the clinic.
  • A larger-than-usual hematoma that requires monitoring or drainage.
  • Hypertrophic or keloid scarring in predisposed patients.
  • Swelling that persists for several months.
  • Mild irregularities in the abdominal contour or small residual asymmetries.
  • Delayed wound healing.
  • Prolonged discomfort related to internal fibrosis of the tissues.
  • Persistent changes in skin sensation in certain areas of the abdomen.

Most of these situations are managed with clinical follow-up and conservative treatments. Only a small proportion of patients require additional procedures.

Uncommon complications

These are complications described in the medical literature with a low incidence, but which every patient should be aware of before undergoing an abdominoplasty:

  • Infection of the surgical wound or of the deep tissues.
  • Persistent or recurrent seroma requiring repeated drainage.
  • Wound dehiscence (partial opening of the scar).
  • Localized skin necrosis, especially in patients who smoke or have vascular risk factors.
  • Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, risks inherent to any major surgery and minimized through specific preventive measures.
  • Postoperative bleeding requiring a return to the operating room.
  • Significant scarring problems.
  • Suboptimal aesthetic results or asymmetries that make revision surgery advisable.
  • Complications associated with general anesthesia, assessed and minimized during the preoperative evaluation.

Although these complications are uncommon, proper patient selection, following the preoperative recommendations and close follow-up during recovery contribute decisively to reducing their occurrence and ensuring a favorable outcome.

Our abdominoplasty medical team

Instituto de Benito is a benchmark in abdominoplasty and abdominal body contouring surgery, with more than 40 years of experience and thousands of satisfied patients.

The team tailors each procedure to each patient's figure, with the aim of a natural result.

Our commitment to abdominoplasty

We have more than 40 years of experience in plastic and cosmetic surgery, with extensive specialization in body surgery. Over the course of our history, we have performed more than 2,000 procedures, which allows us to offer safe, effective procedures with balanced, natural results. In abdominoplasty alone, we have performed more than 1,000 procedures.

Our practice is backed by membership of recognized international scientific societies such as SECPRE (Spanish Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery), ISAPS (International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) and SCCPRE (Catalan Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery), which ensures ongoing training and the application of the most advanced techniques.

We prioritize the personalization of each treatment, adapting to each patient's needs and characteristics and offering comprehensive post-op follow-up to ensure an optimal recovery and long-lasting results.

Where to have abdominal surgery

Book your abdominoplasty consultation

The first step is not surgery: it is a consultation with the surgeon who would perform your procedure. They will assess your case, answer your questions and, after the visit, give you the exact price.

The first consultation costs €80, which is deducted from the cost of surgery if you decide to have your procedure with us. You can also call us.

Related treatments

Frequently asked questions about abdominoplasty

What results can I expect?

Abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, tightens the abdominal muscles when diastasis is present and achieves a firmer, more defined body contour. Full recovery comes gradually as the swelling goes down, usually over the first few months after surgery.

Is a tummy tuck painful?

Discomfort is usually mild to moderate and is well controlled with medication. In Barcelona we apply the Synapta® protocol to make the post-op period more manageable. Most patients return to a fairly normal life between 9 and 13 days.

Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?

Yes, but it is not recommended if you want to maintain the result. A new pregnancy can stretch the skin and abdominal muscles again.

Is the result permanent?

Yes, as long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle and a stable weight. The skin that was removed and the muscle tightening do not return to their previous state.

When can I exercise or go in the sun?

Light activities can be resumed at around 3 to 4 weeks, and intense exercise from 6 to 8 weeks. For sun exposure or the beach, it is recommended to wait 8 weeks and always apply high-protection sunscreen to the scar.

Can a tummy tuck be combined with other procedures?

Yes. It is very common to combine it with liposuction or other body surgeries, always after a personalized medical consultation.

What happens if I gain or lose weight afterward?

Moderate weight changes do not usually alter the result. Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve the result for many years.

How long does full recovery take?

Most patients are back to a fairly normal life in 9 to 13 days, but full recovery comes between 3 and 6 months.

Can you finance a tummy tuck?

Yes, we offer different financing options to make abdominoplasty more accessible. We can split the payment over up to 12 months interest-free, and also offer longer financing options of up to 48 months, tailored to each patient.

What kind of scar does a tummy tuck leave?

The scar is usually located in the lower abdomen, above the pubic area, so that it can be hidden by underwear or a bikini. Its length will depend on the amount of skin that needs to be removed. Over time it usually fades and becomes less visible.

Does a tummy tuck fix diastasis recti?

Yes. During the procedure it is possible to repair the separation of the abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), improving both the firmness of the abdomen and the body contour.

What is the difference between a tummy tuck and liposuction?

Liposuction removes localized fat, while abdominoplasty removes excess skin and can tighten the abdominal muscles. In many cases the two techniques are combined to achieve a more complete result.

When can I go back to work after a tummy tuck?

Returning to work depends on the type of job. Sedentary activities are usually resumed within two to four weeks, while jobs that require physical effort may need a longer recovery time.

How long do I have to wear a compression garment after a tummy tuck?

The post-op compression garment is usually worn for four to eight weeks. Its purpose is to help control swelling, help the tissues adapt and improve comfort during recovery.

Who is a good candidate for a tummy tuck?

The best candidates are usually people with excess abdominal skin, sagging or muscle diastasis after pregnancy or significant weight loss, who maintain a relatively stable weight and are in good general health.

Does a tummy tuck remove stretch marks?

Stretch marks located on the skin that is removed during surgery disappear. However, those that remain outside that area cannot be removed by the procedure.

Will I need drains after a tummy tuck?

In some cases, yes. Drains help prevent fluid buildup during the first few days after surgery and are usually removed when the surgeon considers they are no longer needed.

When can I sleep on my stomach or side after a tummy tuck?

During the first few weeks, it is usually recommended to sleep on your back with your torso slightly flexed. Changing position is done gradually, depending on your progress and medical advice.

Can I have a mini tummy tuck instead?

Yes. A mini abdominoplasty (mini tummy tuck) is indicated for patients with a small amount of excess skin located below the navel. It requires a shorter scar and a less extensive procedure than a full abdominoplasty.

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