Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty vs Tummy Tuck: Is There Any Difference?

Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty - Same Goal, Two Names. Let’s Break It Down!
If you’ve been exploring ways to achieve a flatter, firmer abdomen—especially after weight loss, pregnancy, or simply due to aging—you’ve likely come across the differences between Abdominoplasty vs Tummy Tuck. At first glance, they may seem like different procedures, leaving many patients wondering which one is right for them. The truth is, they’re actually two names for the same transformative surgery.
Dr Faisal Salim, a leading plastic and aesthetic surgeon in Dubai, specialises in both full and mini abdominoplasty (commonly known as tummy tucks), offering customized solutions that restore abdominal tone and redefine body contours with natural-looking results.
Whether you’re seeking to feel more confident in your clothes or reclaim your pre-pregnancy body, Dr Faisal’s approach blends medical precision with aesthetic artistry, making your goals his priority.
What is Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is a popular term used to describe a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal region while tightening the underlying muscles. It’s often chosen by individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, post-pregnancy changes, or abdominal sagging due to aging.
The result? A flatter, firmer, and more toned midsection.
What is Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty is the medical term for a tummy tuck. There is no real difference between the two, other than how the terms are used. While “tummy tuck” is more patient-friendly and widely recognized, “abdominoplasty” is the clinical name professionals like Dr Faisal Salim use in medical settings.
In summary:
- Tummy tuck = common terminology
- Abdominoplasty = medical terminology
Both refer to the same procedure with the same goals and surgical approach.
Tummy Tuck Surgery: What does it involve?
The tummy tuck procedure, or abdominoplasty surgery, typically involves the following steps:
- Consultation & Evaluation: Dr Faisal Salim starts with a detailed consultation to assess your unique anatomy, skin elasticity, fat deposits, and muscle separation.
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.
- Incision: A horizontal incision is made between the pubic hairline and the belly button. However, in some cases, a second incision may be created around the navel to address excess skin in the upper abdomen.
- Tissue Repositioning & Muscle Tightening: The abdominal muscles are sutured closer together (particularly important in cases of diastasis recti), and the skin is pulled downward.
- Excess Skin Removal: Sagging or loose skin is trimmed, and the remaining skin is repositioned smoothly.
- Belly Button Repositioning: If needed, the navel is repositioned for a natural appearance.
- Closure & Recovery: The incisions are closed with adhesives, sutures, or clips. A compression garment is put around to minimise swelling and support healing.
Abdominoplasty - Types of Procedures
Dr Faisal Salim offers several types of tummy tuck surgeries, customized to the patient’s goals and condition:
Full Abdominoplasty
Ideal for those with major skin laxity and muscle separation.
Suitable for individuals with mild to moderate skin sagging below the navel.
Extended Tummy Tuck
Entails the elimination of excess skin from the abdomen and flanks, often used for post-bariatric patients.
Tummy Tuck Scar: What to expect?
A tummy tuck scar is a natural outcome of the surgical procedure. Typically, it appears as a horizontal line across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. Dr. Faisal Salim carefully places the incisions in discreet locations, ensuring the scar can be easily hidden under underwear or swimwear.
With proper care and healing, the tummy tuck scar usually fades over time. For patients seeking further improvement, treatments like laser therapy or microneedling can help reduce the scar’s visibility even more.
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Who is a good candidate for Abdominoplasty?
If you:
- Have loose or sagging abdominal skin,
- Experience weakened or separated abdominal muscles,
- Maintain a stable weight,
- Are in good general health,
- Have realistic expectations,
…you may be an excellent candidate for abdominoplasty in Dubai under Dr Faisal Salim’s expert care.
Women post-pregnancy, individuals after massive weight loss, and those looking to improve abdominal contour often find life-changing results with this procedure.
Abdominoplasty in Dubai with Dr Faisal Salim
Dubai has rapidly emerged as a global hub for cosmetic surgery, with world-class facilities and highly qualified surgeons like Dr Faisal Salim leading the way. Known for his personalized, meticulous approach and artistic eye, Dr Salim ensures natural-looking, safe results tailored to each patient.
Why choose Dr Faisal Salim?
- Fellowship-trained, UK-qualified plastic and aesthetic surgeon
- Specializes in body contouring and revision surgery
- Focuses on customized care, with detailed pre-op planning
- High patient satisfaction and excellent post-surgical follow-up
Tummy Tuck Recovery Timeline
Here’s a general outline of what to expect post-procedure:
Recovery Phase | What Happens |
Week 1 | Bruising, swelling, tightness, and limited movement. Drainage tubes may be in place. |
Week 2–3 | Reduced pain; return to light daily activities. Swelling begins to subside. |
Week 4–6 | Resume light exercise. Noticeable improvement in shape and contour. |
Week 8+ | Results continue to improve. Most swelling gone. Scars start maturing. |
Dr Faisal Salim provides a detailed post-operative plan and monitors healing closely to ensure optimal results.
Tummy Tuck vs Abdominoplasty – Interesting Stats & Trends
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Abdominoplasty vs Tummy Tuck – Is there really a difference?
To put it simply, no, there is no difference between a tummy tuck and abdominoplasty in terms of the procedure. They are two names for the same surgical solution designed to restore abdominal firmness, contour, and confidence.
If you’re considering a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty in Dubai, trust your body with a surgeon who combines skill, safety, and artistry. Dr Faisal Salim is committed to helping you rediscover a toned, beautiful silhouette with care that goes beyond the surgery itself.
Schedule your personalised consultation with Dr Faisal Salim today.
FAQs
No, they are the same procedure. Abdominoplasty is the medical term, while tummy tuck is the commonly used name.
Individuals with excess abdominal skin, weakened muscles, or stubborn fat after pregnancy or weight loss are ideal candidates.
It can remove stretch marks present on the skin that is excised, typically below the belly button.
Most patients resume light activities within 2 weeks and see full recovery in 6–8 weeks.
Yes, but the scar is usually low on the abdomen and can be hidden under underwear or swimwear.
Results are long-lasting by maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle, though natural aging may affect outcomes over time.
Yes, Dr Faisal Salim provides expert, personalised tummy tuck procedures at his advanced clinic in Dubai.
Patient Testimonials
Dr Faisal was nothing but outstanding during my entire journey in deciding if I should have a deep plane facelift in my 40’s. I didn’t want fillers and other interim interventions, all I wanted was to turn back time with what I had! From the very first consultation to before and after surgery including my many WhatsApp messages during my recovery months Dr Faisal was calm, reassuring and always there for me. It’s now 6 months on and I can honestly say it was the right decision to make. I am thrilled that it doesn’t look obvious that anything has been done but certainly friends and family comment on how fresh and alive I look! I would highly recommend Dr Faisal for his professional, calm, reassuring and expert advice for anyone considering such a big decision in their life. Juli Fairclough-Davis2024-12-05 I couldn’t say enough wonderful things to do Dr. Faisal justice! He listens. He cares. He has deep discussion with you to be certain he is targeting your root problem or concern. His staff is lovely. He doesn’t miss a step! After a botched mommy make over and THEN a trans-abdominal hysterectomy I was left with a massive scar and intense daily pain. Dr. Faisal gave me my life back! After 6.5 YEARS of intense, debilitating, life-altering pain, I am finally set free! My results are truly remarkable. I could not have asked for anything to go better! I am pain free, I have my athletic build back again and can get back to my active lifestyle with my kiddos again! I hope I never need surgery again in my lifetime but if I do- I’ll go to the ends of the earth to make sure it’s in his hands! He’s a realist and will not lie to you. He sets real expectations and then exceeds them by leaps and bounds! I am forever grateful to Dr. Faisal! Kat Overbeck2024-10-17 Cannot fault the service from start to finish. Highly recommend Dr Faisal and the team. Thank you for everything. Alice Williams2024-10-05 My neighbor recommended Dr. Faisal to me , and I am so happy with the result with only 4months now.I have done the breast augmentation and nipple correction. Dr. Faisal is so professional so good, he can hear you and understand what you want, and he did the work perfectly . I am very happy with my breast now. The results are even better than I had hoped. TT &T2024-09-30 Review of Dr. Faisal - abdominoplasty As a diabetic who had embarked on a weight loss journey to improve my health, I found myself facing a new challenge - unsightly loose skin around my tummy. This unexpected outcome of my weight loss efforts impacted my self-confidence, especially when it came to how I dressed and carried myself. Despite the physical transformation I had achieved, the presence of excess skin made me feel self-conscious and hesitant to fully embrace my new body. Therefore, I started researching doctors who could carry out the procedure. Upon scheduling my initial consultation, recommended by a friend, Dr. Faisal meticulously guided me through the surgery, addressing all my inquiries and aligning with my objectives. Prior to the operation, he dedicated time to addressing any concerns, remaining accessible for my numerous questions, and offering detailed instructions for the recovery process. Post-surgery, he closely monitored my progress and was consistently available for support, even during unconventional hours, providing reassurance and comfort. The recovery is always different for everyone but honestly, I felt it was made easier with the great support and did not struggle at all. I was up and about within a couple of days.....obviously with limitations. Now post 6 week mark i can confidently say Dr. Faisal's exceptional expertise resulted in a fabulous result (i find myself constantly checking myself out in the mirror and i can see abs !!), significantly boosting my self-confidence and I would highly recommend him to anyone contemplating this procedure. Puja Gujral2024-09-02 I wholeheartedly recommend Dr Faisal. After having 4 children including a set of twins, I no longer recognized myself when I looked in the mirror. My confidence was non existent. However, the thought of an extended abdominoplasty and breast lift was very daunting. Dr Faisal took the time to explain the whole procedure, recovery and expected outcome in an honest and frank manner whilst allaying any concerns or fears. The result is life changing. I was supported throughout the recovery and I now feel like I have my spark back. I enjoy exercising again and no longer look for baggy clothes to hide my body. Jennifer Durston MA Elip FCCT2024-08-28 I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the outstanding results of my surgeries. I am beyond thrilled with the outcome, and every time I look in the mirror, I feel an overwhelming sense of joy and confidence. Dr Faisal's exceptional skill and artistry are truly remarkable, and I am incredibly grateful to have found such an amazing surgeon. Thank you Dr Faisal for your beautiful work. Louise2024-08-17 Dr. Faisal is an exceptional doctor. Living in Dubai, it's not easy to find the right plastic surgeon. In previous years, I checked many profiles, but somehow I didn't trust them. One day, based on my friend's recommendation (and also after reading excellent reviews), I booked a consultation with Dr. Faisal. He really listens to his patients and answered my long list of questions, even the super silly ones. I didn't go anywhere else, I booked the surgery straight away. The results are just amazing; I got exactly what I asked for. I would highly recommend Dr. Faisal to anyone considering plastic surgery. Dora Czuczor2024-08-08 I had breast reduction surgery with Dr Faisal Salim 2 months ago. I was a GG cup size. Before the operation I searched for a good surgeon in the UAE and abroad for over a year, I selected 3 surgeons to meet with and one of them was Dr Faisal. I chose him because he was friendly and thorough in his explanation of what the surgery entailed and in managing my expectations. He and his team were always ready to answer my questions and his assistant Nazokat has been so lovely and helpful. I went into this surgery, very nervous of course, but fully aware of all the possible outcomes and I ended up with results that surpassed my dream scenario. I am so happy with the size and shape of my breasts. I am now a perky C cup at 43! Beyond the aesthetic aspect of my transformation, the health benefits are numerous; It is much easier to just exist everyday and do mondain activities with ease when it was a struggle before. I am able to keep up with my young children and working out has become so much easier that my fitness goals don’t seem so distant anymore. The positive consequences of this intervention don’t end here; one of the most significant outcomes is the impact on my confidence and self esteem; my family noticed that I’m more outgoing and I engage with others more and seem less reserved. I simply feel a million times better about myself! Dr Faisal did an amazing job and I will forever be thankful to him and cannot recommend him enough. He is a highly skilled surgeon and understands what his patients’ worries and preoccupations are. He is reassuring but honest and upfront about possible challenges which is exactly what I was looking for. This surgery is the best thing I have ever done for myself and I recommend it to every woman who suffers from the burden of having very large breasts. My first visit with Dr Faisal was just a chat about what I was looking for, it was relaxed and I didn’t feel pressured at all. It helped me in realising that this issue that seemed insurmountable could actually be fixed - and now that it is, I wish for every woman who is in the situation I was in to meet with Dr Faisal and get a new lease of life 😊 Laïla Waugh2024-07-25 I want to thank Dr. Faisal for performing on excellent procedure: face lift, neck lift and blepharoplasty- all together during the same surgery- Great ! His bedside manner was excellent. I’m very happy with the results ! This surgery has made a positive impact on my self esteem. Dr. Faisal answered all my questions reassuring me with professionalism at every stage of my journey providing accurate information. Dr. Faisal’s knowledge and skills gave me a very natural look, avoid raising unrealistic expectations. I want to mention also the team at the clinic : friendly and professional. I greatly appreciate everything Dr. Faisal has done for me. Highly recommended- 5 stars. Maria A2024-05-06