Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) in Bordeaux

Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that treats excess skin and laxity of the abdominal wall. Dr Maxence Thomas, plastic surgeon, performs it at the Clinique Esthétique Aquitaine in Bordeaux.

Damaged or stretched skin below the navel is removed, the remaining skin is tightened and, if needed, separated abdominal muscles are brought back together.

Who is a tummy tuck for?

A tummy tuck is mainly intended for people who have:

• excess skin or an abdominal “apron” after one or more pregnancies or significant weight loss;
• separation of the rectus muscles (diastasis), giving a rounded belly despite a normal weight;
• stretch marks below the navel.

It is not a weight-loss method: it is considered once weight is stable. When excess skin is limited to the area below the navel, a mini tummy tuck may be enough; when the issue is only excess fat with good-quality skin, liposuction is more suitable.

The consultation

The consultation is used to examine the abdominal wall (skin quality, amount of excess, muscle condition, existing scars) and to decide which type of tummy tuck is appropriate. Medical history, smoking and weight stability are taken into account. A detailed quote is provided. For a cosmetic indication, French law requires a cooling-off period of at least 15 days before surgery.

How the procedure is performed

The incision line, which will become the scar, is planned according to the location and amount of skin to be removed: the larger the excess, the longer the scar. The aim is to keep it hidden by underwear.

Excess fat can be removed by liposuction and stretched muscles are tightened.

The remaining skin (above the navel) is pulled down and may be secured to the muscle wall with “quilting” sutures. This improves tightening, especially of the upper part, and reduces the risk of fluid collection. The navel is preserved and repositioned.

Coverage by French health insurance

In some situations, particularly a large abdominal apron after weight loss, a tummy tuck may be partly covered by French health insurance (Assurance maladie) after prior approval. Dr Thomas will tell you at the consultation whether this may apply to you.

The final result can be assessed after 6 months, and the final appearance of the scars after one year. The abdomen is flatter, the skin firmer and the figure slimmer. The result is long-lasting as long as weight remains stable.

A tummy tuck does not prevent pregnancy, but pregnancy may stretch the skin and muscles again. It is therefore best to consider surgery once you have completed your family.

Price of a tummy tuck in Bordeaux

A tummy tuck performed by Dr Maxence Thomas costs between €2,950 and €5,650, depending on the extent of surgery and any insurance coverage. A personalised quote is provided after the consultation.