Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) at Shanghai Ninth Hospital
Author: SeeDocInChina Medical Team
Reviewer: Dr. Liu, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Last Updated: April 11, 2026
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is one of the most transformative body contouring procedures available at Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital. This comprehensive surgical procedure removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area while tightening the underlying muscles, creating a flatter, more toned midsection.
What is Abdominoplasty?
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the abdomen by:
- Removing excess, sagging skin
- Eliminating stubborn fat deposits
- Tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
- Restoring a smoother, firmer abdominal profile
The procedure is particularly popular among women post-pregnancy and individuals who have experienced significant weight loss.
Types of Tummy Tuck Procedures
Shanghai Ninth Hospital offers several variations of abdominoplasty to address different patient needs:
Full Abdominoplasty
The traditional full tummy tuck addresses the entire abdominal area from the lower chest to the pubic region. This comprehensive approach includes:
- A horizontal incision between the hip bones (typically placed low enough to be hidden by underwear)
- Removal of excess skin and fat from the upper and lower abdomen
- Repair of separated abdominal muscles
- Repositioning of the navel (belly button) to a natural location
Mini Abdominoplasty
A mini tummy tuck focuses on the lower abdomen below the navel. This less extensive procedure:
- Uses a shorter incision
- Addresses only the lower abdominal area
- Does not require repositioning the navel
- Involves shorter recovery time
Extended Abdominoplasty
For patients with significant excess skin extending to the flanks and lower back, the extended tummy tuck:
- Uses a longer incision that wraps around the hips
- Addresses the abdomen, flanks, and lower back
- Provides more comprehensive body contouring
Circumferential Abdominoplasty (Belt Lipectomy)
This most extensive form removes excess skin completely around the torso, typically performed on patients after massive weight loss following bariatric surgery.
Why Choose Shanghai Ninth Hospital for Your Tummy Tuck?
Unmatched Expertise
Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital is consistently ranked among the top plastic surgery centers in China. Their abdominal contouring team has performed thousands of tummy tuck procedures with exceptional safety records and patient satisfaction.
Advanced Surgical Techniques
The hospital employs the latest abdominoplasty techniques including:
- Progressive tension sutures: Reduces fluid accumulation and speeds recovery
- Drainless tummy tuck: Eliminates the need for post-operative drains in suitable candidates
- Liposuction combination: Enhances contouring results when combined with liposuction
- Minimal scarring techniques: Strategic incision placement for optimal scar concealment
Comprehensive Care
From initial consultation through full recovery, patients receive:
- Detailed pre-operative assessment and planning
- State-of-the-art surgical facilities
- Experienced anesthesiology team
- Dedicated nursing care during hospital stay
- Structured follow-up program
The Tummy Tuck Journey at Shanghai Ninth Hospital
Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation where the surgical team will:
- Review your medical history and current health status
- Assess your abdominal area and skin quality
- Discuss your aesthetic goals and expectations
- Explain the recommended surgical approach
- Provide detailed information about risks and recovery
Pre-Operative Preparation
Patients receive comprehensive instructions including:
- Smoking cessation requirements (minimum 4 weeks before and after)
- Medication adjustments
- Pre-operative testing and health optimization
- Nutrition and lifestyle recommendations
The Surgical Procedure
Tummy tuck surgery at Shanghai Ninth Hospital typically takes 2-4 hours and is performed under general anesthesia:
- Incision: The surgeon makes the planned incision (location varies by procedure type)
- Muscle Repair: Separated abdominal muscles are sutured together
- Skin Removal: Excess skin is removed and remaining skin is pulled taut
- Navel Repositioning: For full tummy tucks, the navel is repositioned
- Closure: Incisions are closed with careful attention to scar quality
Recovery Process
Hospital Stay: 1-3 days depending on procedure extent
First Week: Rest with limited mobility, wearing compression garment
Weeks 2-3: Gradual increase in activity, continued garment use
Weeks 4-6: Return to most normal activities, light exercise
3-6 Months: Final results emerge as swelling completely resolves
Combining Tummy Tuck with Other Procedures
Many patients choose to combine abdominoplasty with complementary procedures:
Mommy Makeover
A comprehensive combination typically including:
- Tummy tuck
- Breast augmentation or lift
- Liposuction
This approach addresses multiple post-pregnancy concerns in a single surgery and recovery period.
Body Lift After Weight Loss
Patients who have lost significant weight often combine tummy tuck with:
- Arm lift (brachioplasty)
- Thigh lift
- Breast lift
Cost of Tummy Tuck at Shanghai Ninth Hospital
| Procedure Type | Shanghai Price Range | US Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Mini Tummy Tuck | ,500 - ,500 | ,000 - 0,000 |
| Full Tummy Tuck | ,000 - ,500 | ,000 - 5,000 |
| Extended Tummy Tuck | ,000 - 2,000 | 2,000 - 0,000 |
| Circumferential | 0,000 - 6,000 | 5,000 - 5,000 |
Prices vary based on procedure complexity, combination procedures, and individual patient factors
Risks and Considerations
As with any major surgery, tummy tuck carries potential risks:
- Bleeding and hematoma formation
- Infection
- Poor wound healing
- Scarring (though typically well-concealed)
- Fluid accumulation (seroma)
- Numbness or sensation changes
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
The surgical team at Shanghai Ninth Hospital takes extensive precautions to minimize these risks, including the use of advanced surgical techniques and comprehensive post-operative monitoring.
Ideal Candidates for Tummy Tuck
Good candidates for abdominoplasty typically:
- Are at or near their ideal body weight
- Have realistic expectations about results
- Are in good overall health
- Do not smoke (or are willing to quit)
- Have completed their families (future pregnancy can affect results)
- Have excess skin and/or muscle separation that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do tummy tuck results last?
With stable weight and a healthy lifestyle, tummy tuck results can last many years or even decades. Significant weight fluctuations or pregnancy can affect results.
Q: Will a tummy tuck remove stretch marks?
A full tummy tuck removes stretch marks located on the lower abdomen (below the navel) along with the excess skin. Stretch marks above the navel may be moved lower but typically remain visible.
Q: Can I have children after a tummy tuck?
While it’s physically possible to have children after a tummy tuck, pregnancy can stretch the repaired muscles and skin, potentially compromising your results. Most surgeons recommend completing your family before undergoing abdominoplasty.
Q: How noticeable will my scar be?
Tummy tuck scars are strategically placed low on the abdomen, typically hidden by underwear or swimwear. While permanent, these scars usually fade significantly over 12-18 months and become less noticeable with proper scar care.
Q: What’s the difference between liposuction and a tummy tuck?
Liposuction removes fat but does not address excess skin or muscle separation. A tummy tuck addresses all three: excess skin, fat, and muscle laxity. Your surgeon will recommend the appropriate procedure based on your specific concerns.
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if abdominoplasty is appropriate for your individual circumstances. Results vary, and all surgical procedures carry risks.
Image Sources
Image source: Wikimedia Commons
License: CC BY-SA 3.0
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- Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital: The Complete Guide
- Liposuction in Shanghai
- Breast Augmentation in Shanghai
- Mommy Makeover in Shanghai
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