Tummy Tuck

Tummy Tuck

The secret to a firm, smooth abdomen — when diet and exercise aren't enough.

Overview

Elastic Abdominoplasty — tummy tuck, liposuction, and navel reshaping in one.

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is the most effective solution for sagging skin, stretch marks, and abdominal bulging caused by pregnancy, extreme dieting, aging, or lifestyle changes — conditions that liposuction alone cannot fix.

Link PS's Elastic Abdominoplasty combines tummy tuck + liposuction + belly button reshaping into a single procedure for a firm, toned abdomen with natural-looking results.

Tummy tuck result
Types
Mini vs Full Abdominoplasty

Mini Tummy Tuck

For sagging and stretch marks concentrated in the lower abdomen. Incision below the bikini line. Shorter recovery.

Time: 1.5 hours
Anesthesia: General
Hospital stay: Same-day discharge
Recovery: 1 week
Stitch removal: 1 week

Full Tummy Tuck

For sagging and stretch marks across the entire abdomen (upper + lower). Includes muscle tightening and navel repositioning.

Time: 2.5 hours
Anesthesia: General
Hospital stay: Same-day (overnight if needed)
Recovery: 2 weeks
Stitch removal: 1 week
At a Glance

Procedure Time

1.5–2.5 hours depending on mini or full abdominoplasty.

Anesthesia

IV sedation with dedicated in-house anesthesiologist.

Recovery

1–2 weeks depending on type. Compression garment worn for 4–6 weeks. 3–4 follow-up visits.

Results

Flat, firm abdomen with tightened muscles. Stretch marks on removed skin are on a long-term basis eliminated. Scar hidden in the bikini line.

Our Approach
Why Link PS Elastic Abdominoplasty is different

Standard Tummy Tuck

  • Skin removal only
  • Liposuction done as a separate procedure
  • Navel often looks unnatural after repositioning
  • Longer total recovery when staged

Link PS Elastic Abdominoplasty

  • Tummy tuck + liposuction + belly button reshaping in one session
  • Separated rectus abdominis muscles tightened for a firm, flat wall
  • Upper skin pulled down and excess removed for smooth contour
  • Navel reshaped into a natural vertical slit — not just repositioned
  • Scar placed inside the bikini line for concealment
Process
How it works
1

Incision Along Bikini Line

A low incision is made inside the bikini line, designed to be hidden by underwear or swimwear.

2

Liposuction & Muscle Tightening

Stubborn fat is removed via liposuction. Separated rectus abdominis muscles are sutured together to restore a firm, flat abdominal wall.

3

Skin Removal & Closure

Upper abdominal skin is pulled downward, excess skin is removed, and the incision is closed with meticulous suturing for minimal scarring.

4

Navel Reshaping

The belly button is repositioned and reshaped into a natural vertical slit — Link PS's signature umbilicoplasty technique — for a refined, natural result.

Meet Your Surgeon

Body contouring specialist for your tummy tuck

Dr. Sung Ha Min
Ph.D. · M.D.
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Sung, Ha Min

Founder & Chief Surgeon · Link Plastic Surgery
15+
Years of Practice
Body
Specialization
1st
Author · Nature
Published Research
First author in Scientific Reports — a sister journal of Nature
"Association between preoperative neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio and mortality after plastic and reconstructive surgery"
FAQ
Common questions
Who is a good candidate for a tummy tuck?

Good candidates include those with loose, sagging abdominal skin after pregnancy or major weight loss, stretch marks that extend across the lower or full abdomen, separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), or a bulging midsection that does not improve with diet and exercise.

What is the difference between a mini and full tummy tuck?

A mini tummy tuck addresses sagging in the lower abdomen only, with a shorter incision and faster recovery. A full tummy tuck treats the entire abdomen — upper and lower — including muscle repair and navel repositioning. Your surgeon will recommend the best option based on your anatomy.

Can a tummy tuck be combined with liposuction?

Yes — Link PS's Elastic Abdominoplasty combines tummy tuck, liposuction, and belly button reshaping into a single procedure. This achieves a more comprehensive result than any one procedure alone.

Where will the scar be?

The incision is placed low along the bikini line, designed to be hidden by underwear or swimwear. For a full tummy tuck, a small scar around the navel is also present but fades significantly over time.

Will my stretch marks be removed?

Stretch marks on the skin that is surgically removed will be on a long-term basis eliminated. Stretch marks above the navel may be improved as the skin is pulled downward, but cannot be guaranteed to disappear completely.

How long is the recovery?

Mini tummy tuck: approximately 1–2 weeks before returning to light activities. Full tummy tuck: 3–4 weeks for basic daily function. A compression garment is worn for 4–6 weeks. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for 6–8 weeks. Full recovery with final contour takes 3–6 months. 3–4 follow-up visits are standard.

Is a tummy tuck painful?

The procedure is performed under IV sedation, so you feel nothing during surgery. Post-operative tightness and soreness are common for the first 1–2 weeks and are managed with prescribed medication. Most patients describe it as manageable discomfort rather than severe pain.

Should I wait until after having children?

If you plan to become pregnant in the near future, it is generally recommended to wait. Pregnancy after a tummy tuck can stretch the repaired muscles and skin, potentially reversing the results. However, a tummy tuck does not prevent future pregnancies.

Are there any risks or side effects?

As with any major surgery, risks include swelling, bruising, bleeding, infection, fluid collection (seroma), delayed wound healing, visible scarring, asymmetry, numbness in the abdominal area, and the need for revision. All risks are discussed in detail during consultation.

How long should I stay in Korea?

We recommend 14–21 days for a full tummy tuck (10–14 for mini). This allows time for early recovery, stitch removal, drain removal if needed, and clearance from your surgeon before flying. Flying too soon after major abdominal surgery increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), so your surgeon will confirm when it is safe to travel.

Will I need surgical drains?

Drains may be placed during surgery to prevent fluid collection (seroma) in the first few days. If used, they are typically removed within 5–7 days at a follow-up visit. Not all patients require drains — your surgeon will decide based on the extent of the procedure.

Is there a risk of blood clots when flying home?

Any major surgery — especially abdominal procedures — temporarily increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can be worsened by long-haul flights. To minimize risk, your surgeon will confirm when it is safe to fly, and may recommend compression stockings, hydration, and periodic movement during the flight.

What happens if I need follow-up after leaving Korea?

Before surgery, your care coordinator will explain the post-op follow-up system including remote check-ins via WhatsApp video, emergency contact options, and what steps to take if a concern develops after returning home. If revision is needed, the clinic will work with you on scheduling and arrangements.

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