What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, known also as abdominoplasty, is a procedure to enhance the appearance of

the abdomen. It targets excess skin and loose muscles, removing them and tightening the
underlying structures to create a flatter, firmer abdominal profile.

While primarily focused on aesthetics, tummy tucks also address functional concerns, such as
relieving discomfort caused by excessive skin folds. It is crucial to remember that this
procedure is not a weight-loss solution and is best suited for individuals with a stable weight
and healthy body mass index.

Tummy tucks are not typically covered solely for cosmetic reasons within the NHS.

Can you have a tummy tuck on the NHS?

Tummy tuck in NHS is subject to strict coverage limitations. The NHS allocates its resources
primarily towards medically essential treatments, often excluding tummy tucks due to their
cosmetic nature. Exceptions do exist, albeit rarely. In such cases, the NHS covers a tummy
tuck procedure when severe functional impairments or significant health complications result
from excess abdominal skin.

These include chronic skin rashes or debilitating pain that significantly hinders daily
activities. Approval for NHS tummy tuck is contingent upon a complete evaluation by a
healthcare professional to demonstrate medical necessity and justify resource utilisation. For
accurate information and guidance on NHS funding eligibility, consult a qualified healthcare
professional at Cadogan.

NHS guidelines prioritise patient safety and health outcomes in considering tummy tuck
procedures.

What are the criteria for having a Tummy Tuck on the NHS?
The tummy tuck NHS criteria are stringent, focusing on significant health issues rather than
cosmetic concerns. This includes situations like:
 Severe skin infections or chronic rashes: Excessive skin folds can trap moisture,
creating a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, leading to persistent infections and
discomfort.
 Functional limitations: The weight and bulk of excess skin can impede mobility,
making everyday activities like walking, bending, and hygiene difficult and causing
pain.
 Complications following massive weight loss surgery: In some cases, significant
weight loss leaves behind large amounts of loose skin, causing functional problems
and potential psychological distress.
Approval is limited and based on individual medical characteristics. Eligibility varies by
region, with doctors playing a crucial role in advocating for patients and navigating the
complex application process. The process involves:
 Plastic surgeons assess medical necessity and recommend the most suitable surgical
approach. Every tummy tuck surgery under NHS jurisdiction is tailored to the
individual patient's specific needs.
 GPs advocating for patients, gathering medical evidence, and submitting formal
funding requests to the NHS, and
  NHS administrators scrutinising requests to ensure alignment with budget constraints
and established criteria.

What is the ideal BMI for having an Abominoplasty on the

NHS?
The optimal BMI threshold recommended NHS for undergoing an Abdominoplasty in NHS,
or tummy tuck, is below 30, with allowances made for variations in body type. Plastic
surgeons sometimes recommend a tummy tuck with liposuction for individuals weighing 150
and 200 lbs, with eligibility typically established at a BMI of 42. This guideline aims to
mitigate surgical risks and enhance aesthetic results.

The procedure aims to improve the abdomen's appearance and may also address weakened or
separated abdominal muscles. Thorough pre-surgical screening evaluates risk factors,
including body fat thickness, ensuring the procedure's safety and efficacy. A tummy tuck is
not recommended for rapid weight loss and is advised solely for individuals with a healthy
BMI, aligning with NHS standards for optimal outcomes.

Tummy tucks offer aesthetic improvements and enhance self-confidence, but they entail
risks. Adherence to these guidelines minimises complications and ensures patient satisfaction
post-surgery. Surgeons meticulously assess each patient's circumstances to determine
suitability for the procedure. Patients must comprehend the surgery's limitations and potential
complications before deciding.

What is the wait time for a Tunmy Tuck on the NHS?

Tummy Tuck wait times on the NHS are highly individualised, contingent on several factors.
This is particularly true for exceptional cases where the NHS considers a tummy tuck for
reconstructive purposes rather than cosmetic reasons.

The NHS provides tummy tucks as part of its commitment to addressing medical needs and
improving patients' quality of life. Various factors contribute to the wait time:

 The severity of the case: The extent of excess skin and tissue requiring removal
significantly impacts the complexity and urgency of the surgery.
 Regional capacity: Different hospitals and regions within the NHS exhibit varying
surgical capacities and waiting lists. This influences the availability of resources and
the length of the waiting period.
 Surgeon availability: The number of surgeons specialising in reconstructive
procedures also influences wait times. Tummy tucks on the NHS are typically
performed by experienced surgeons with specialised training.

A maximum threshold of 18 weeks is typically observed for non-urgent, consultant-led

treatments within the NHS. This countdown begins from the booking date through the NHS
e-Referral Service or upon the hospital's receipt of the referral letter.

What are the alternative options for having a Tummy Tuck

with the NHS?
Abdominoplasty on NHS or its alternative is not a covered procedure. The decision to
approve a tummy tuck on the NHS is based on medical necessity and not solely on aesthetic
concerns.
Outside of NHS, the alternative options for tummy tuck comprise less invasive procedures
and without surgery. These include:
 Specialised body contouring treatments, such as ultrasound therapy, utilising focused
ultrasound energy to target and tighten loose skin without surgery.
 BodyTite: Minimally invasive procedures like radiofrequency skin tightening
stimulate collagen production, skin tone and texture improvement.
 Innovative techniques like cryolipolysis, commonly known as CoolSculpting,
selectively freezes and eliminates stubborn fat cells without damaging surrounding
tissues. This non-invasive approach appeals to individuals seeking targeted fat
reduction in specific abdomen areas.
 Lipodissolve injects deoxycholic acid to dissolve fat cells in targeted body areas. It is
a less invasive procedure.
 Several non-surgical techniques are available to address stretch mark removal and
cellulite reduction concerns.
 Radiofrequency treatments employ radiofrequency waves to tighten the skin
effectively.
 Liposuction, a less invasive surgical procedure, is also an option for suitable
candidates.

Understand that the effectiveness and suitability of alternative options vary depending on
individual circumstances. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the
most suitable course of action and ensure the safe and effective performance of any chosen
procedure.

What are the costs for a Tummy Tuck privately?

In the UK, the cost of a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, typically ranges from £5,000 to
£10,000, excluding consultations and post-operative care expenses. Mini tummy tucks start at
£5,000. Prices vary as per the location and type of clinic visited, with expenses based on the
surgeon's expertise and the quality of post-operative care. The recovery from a tummy tuck
surgery depends on the individual and the extent of the procedure.

Individuals are encouraged to contact Cadogan Clinic via the website's contact form for
precise pricing information. Qualified consultants are available to address inquiries and
provide accurate quotations. Understand the financial aspect of a tummy tuck procedure to
make informed decision-making and ensure transparency throughout the process.

Can I get Tummy Tuck finance?

Financing options are available for tummy tuck procedures at the Cadogan clinic. These
competitive prices align with UK abdominoplasty rates, enhancing patients' body confidence.
The financing options aim to distribute costs effectively, ensuring access to top-tier medical
and surgical teams without compromising quality standards. With these financial options,
patients can achieve their desired results while managing their budgets efficiently.
FAQ
Can excess skin be removed on the NHS?
1. The NHS does not cover tummy tuck procedures for excess skin removal as it falls
under cosmetic surgery, primarily focusing on aesthetics. Patients have to meet
specific criteria set by the NHS to qualify for a tummy tuck, and individuals seeking
such procedures must finance them privately. Costs vary depending on surgery
complexity, surgeon experience, location, additional consultation fees, anaesthesia,
and post-operative care. Thorough research and consideration of all potential
expenses are essential before deciding. Consult a qualified healthcare professional to
understand needs and explore suitable options. Patients must understand realistic
expectations regarding the outcomes of a tummy tuck surgery conducted through the
NHS.

Can you have your diastasis recti repaired on the NHS?

Diastasis recti, the widening of the space between abdominal muscles, is not covered under
the NHS.

Treatment for diastasis recti is typically handled on an individual basis. GPs often refer
patients to physiotherapists for targeted exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor and deep
abdominal muscles. These exercises and maintaining good posture can reduce muscle gaps
and enhance core stability. If you have concerns about diastasis recti, discuss your options
with a healthcare professional. They can assess your needs and recommend the most suitable
course of action, whether it involves physiotherapy or exploring alternative non-surgical or
private surgical options for severe cases.