Can Tummy Tuck Surgery and Hernia Repair Be Performed Together?
The abdominal area is not only important for aesthetic appearance but also for overall health. Factors such as weight fluctuations, pregnancies, and aging may weaken abdominal muscles, loosen the skin, and even lead to hernia formation. This situation may cause both aesthetic concerns and health problems.
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a cosmetic surgery that removes excess skin and fat while tightening abdominal muscles. Hernia repair, on the other hand, is a surgical procedure performed to close tears or weaknesses in the abdominal wall. So, can these two procedures be performed together?
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is a cosmetic operation commonly preferred after pregnancy or major weight loss to eliminate abdominal looseness and sagging.
- Excess skin and fat are removed
- Abdominal muscles are tightened
- A flatter, firmer, and more aesthetic abdomen is achieved
Beyond aesthetics, tummy tuck surgery often improves posture, body comfort, and self-confidence.
What Is an Abdominal Hernia?
An abdominal hernia occurs when internal organs protrude outward due to a weakness or defect in the abdominal wall. The most common types include:
- Umbilical hernia (around the belly button)
- Epigastric hernia (upper abdomen)
- Incisional hernia (developing from previous surgical scars)
A hernia is not only an aesthetic concern—it may also cause pain, discomfort, swelling, digestive problems, and in advanced stages, serious complications.
Can Tummy Tuck and Hernia Repair Be Done Together?
Yes, tummy tuck surgery and hernia repair can safely be performed in the same session.
- During a tummy tuck, the surgeon already works on the abdominal muscles
- The hernia can be repaired during the same operation
- The patient benefits from a single anesthesia and single recovery period
This combined approach is especially common in patients with umbilical hernia or small to moderate abdominal hernias.
- Single anesthesia, single surgery: Reduces risk, stress, and cost for the patient
- Shorter recovery process: One healing period instead of two separate surgeries
- Stronger abdominal wall: Muscles are tightened while the hernia is repaired
- Aesthetic and health benefit together: Sagging is corrected while the hernia problem is resolved
How Is the Procedure Performed?
- The surgery is performed under general anesthesia
- Excess skin and fat are removed
- Abdominal muscles are tightened in the midline
- The hernia defect is surgically repaired
- Abdominal skin is reshaped for a smooth contour
Depending on the size of the hernia and complexity of the procedure, surgery generally takes 2–4 hours.
Who Is Suitable for Combined Tummy Tuck and Hernia Repair?
This procedure is suitable for:
- Individuals with abdominal sagging or looseness
- Patients who also have umbilical or epigastric hernia
- Those in good general health
- Non-smokers or patients who can stop smoking before surgery
Recovery After Surgery
- Swelling and tension in the abdomen are normal in the first days
- Most patients can return to daily activities within 2–3 weeks
- Wearing a compression garment helps recovery and support
- Heavy exercise and lifting should be avoided for 6–8 weeks
Recovery after combined surgery is very similar to standard tummy tuck recovery.
Possible Risks
As with any surgical operation, some risks may occur:
- Bleeding or infection
- Delayed wound healing
- Surgical scars
- Risk of hernia recurrence (especially in large hernias)
Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon significantly reduces these risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a tummy tuck and hernia repair really be done at the same time?
Yes. Especially umbilical and small abdominal hernias can be repaired easily during a tummy tuck.
Is recovery more difficult?
No. Recovery is very similar to a standard tummy tuck process.
Will there be more scars?
No. The scar remains within the tummy tuck incision line, so no additional scar is created.
Can the hernia come back?
Recurrence risk is low for small hernias but may be higher in large or complex hernias.
Does surgery time increase?
Yes, depending on hernia size, surgery may extend by approximately 30–60 minutes.
One Surgery for Both Aesthetic and Health Benefits
Combining tummy tuck surgery with hernia repair offers patients a significant advantage—both abdominal tightening and hernia treatment are achieved in a single procedure. With proper patient selection, an experienced surgeon, and good postoperative care, this combined approach is one of the most effective and safe solutions for abdominal aesthetics and abdominal wall health.
Physician Information
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sedat Tatar is a Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery specialist who is Double Board Certified by two international boards. He holds the titles of Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS) and Fellow of the European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (FEBOPRAS).
His international professional memberships include ISAPS (International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery) and ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons).
His clinic is located in Istanbul and is officially authorized by the Turkish Ministry of Health as a Health Tourism Center. His company is registered in the United Kingdom & Wales.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Telephone No : +90 (555) 100 10 83
Contact Link : [email protected]
Address : Levent District, Karanfil Araligi Street No: 18 Besiktas/ISTANBUL
