Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)

Mini, full or extended, for loose abdominal skin

Removes loose skin and some fat from the abdomen and, in a full tummy tuck, tightens the abdominal muscles. It is often combined with liposuction. Expect a longer recovery than most cosmetic surgery: UK guidance puts time off work at 4–6 weeks after a full tummy tuck, less after a mini.

Downtime
14–42 days
Minimum stay
14 days
Sessions
1
A simple lower torso in plain briefs with three curved dashed incision lines on the lower abdomen, numbered 1 to 3 from the shortest to the longest.
  1. Mini. A short incision low on the abdomen; treats loose skin below the navel only.
  2. Full. Runs from hip bone to hip bone; the navel gets a new opening and the muscles are usually repaired.
  3. Extended. The full incision carried round the sides of the waist towards the back, to take loose skin from the flanks too.

The lines are drawn one above the other so each is visible. In practice all three sit low, where underwear usually covers them.

Estimated price range

KRW 4,500,000 – 20,000,000

≈ USD 3,344 – 14,860

Varies by clinic and your condition. The final price is confirmed after consultation.

Converted at a fixed rate as of 2026-09-11

Types and indicative prices

Many operations combine two or more of these. Prices are indicative ranges from Seoul clinics; the surgeon recommends a plan and the clinic quotes it after consultation.

  • Mini tummy tuck

    A shorter incision removes loose skin below the navel only. It suits a small overhang of skin on the lower abdomen.

    Indicative price
    KRW 4,500,000 – 8,000,000≈ USD 3,344 – 5,944
    Downtime
    14–28 days

  • Full tummy tuck

    A hip-to-hip incision removes loose skin above and below the navel, usually tightens separated abdominal muscles, and repositions the navel. It suits loose skin after pregnancy or major weight loss.

    Indicative price
    KRW 7,500,000 – 15,000,000≈ USD 5,573 – 11,145
    Downtime
    21–42 days

  • Extended tummy tuck

    The full tummy tuck incision continues around the flanks towards the back, so loose skin on the sides of the waist comes away too. It suits a large amount of loose skin, often after major weight loss, and is a longer operation with a longer stay.

    Indicative price
    KRW 12,000,000 – 20,000,000≈ USD 8,916 – 14,860
    Downtime
    28–42 days

Good to know

  • Plan about 14 days in Korea, and about 3 weeks for an extended tummy tuck or when it is combined with liposuction. Ask about a medical tourism visa if you may stay past 30 days.
  • Expect to walk slightly bent for the first days, and wear an abdominal binder for about 6 weeks.
  • Drains may be left in for several days; the clinic removes them before you fly.
  • No heavy lifting for about 6 weeks. Stop smoking well before surgery, as it slows wound healing.

Questions

Who is it suitable for?

Adults at a stable weight with loose abdominal skin, often after pregnancy or large weight loss. It is best done once you have finished having children.

Mini, full or extended?

A mini treats loose skin below the navel only, with a shorter scar and recovery. A full tummy tuck treats the whole abdomen and the muscles. An extended tummy tuck carries the incision round the flanks to remove loose skin on the sides too, often after major weight loss. The surgeon decides after examining you; our treatment guide compares the three.

When can I fly home?

The NHS advises not flying for 7–10 days after a tummy tuck, and the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons suggests staying 2–4 weeks after longer or combined operations. The surgeon gives the final clearance.

Will there be a scar?

Yes, a low horizontal scar that underwear usually covers. It stays red for some months and then fades, though healing differs between individuals.

Related guides

Ask about this treatment
Plastic surgery