What is a reverse tummy tuck?

A reverse tummy tuck is a body contouring procedure that removes excess skin from the upper abdomen. Unlike a standard tummy tuck, the incisions are hidden beneath the breast crease rather than along the bikini line, making it ideal for patients whose loose skin is concentrated above the belly button.

Who is a good candidate for a reverse tummy tuck?

The best candidates are patients with loose or sagging skin in the upper abdomen, often after significant weight loss, pregnancy, or ageing. Your surgeon will determine whether a reverse tummy tuck or a standard tummy tuck is more suitable during your consultation.

How is a reverse tummy tuck different from a standard tummy tuck?

A standard tummy tuck primarily addresses the lower abdomen, removes excess skin below the belly button, and repairs separated abdominal muscles. A reverse tummy tuck focuses on the upper abdomen and uses incisions hidden beneath the breasts.

Will I have visible scars?

The scars are placed within the natural crease beneath the breasts, making them well concealed in most clothing and swimwear. They will fade over time but will not disappear completely.

Can a reverse tummy tuck be combined with other procedures?

Yes. It is commonly combined with breast surgery, liposuction, or a standard tummy tuck for patients who require contouring of both the upper and lower abdomen.

Does a reverse tummy tuck tighten the abdominal muscles?

Not usually. A reverse tummy tuck mainly removes excess upper abdominal skin. If muscle repair is required, your surgeon will discuss whether this can be incorporated into your treatment plan.

How long is the recovery?

Most patients can return to light daily activities within 2–3 weeks. Swelling gradually improves over several months, and most international patients are able to fly home 5–7 days after surgery, subject to their surgeon's approval.

Will I need to wear a compression garment?

Yes. A compression garment is typically recommended for several weeks to reduce swelling, support healing, and help achieve the best contour.

Will the results be permanent?

The removed skin will not return. Maintaining a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle can help preserve your results for many years, although natural ageing will continue.

When will I see my final results?

You'll notice an improvement immediately after surgery, but swelling can take several months to fully settle. Final results are typically visible between 3 and 6 months after the procedure.

Reverse Tummy Tuck in Turkey

Designed for patients with excess skin in the upper abdomen, a reverse tummy tuck removes loose skin through incisions hidden beneath the breast crease, creating a firmer, smoother upper abdomen while avoiding the lower abdominal incision used in a standard tummy tuck.

In short: A reverse tummy tuck is designed for patients with excess skin in the upper abdomen, improving contour through incisions hidden beneath the breast crease. Prices start from £5,200 and most patients are able to fly home after 5–7 days, subject to surgeon approval.

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THE DIFFERENCE

What makes reverse tummy tuck different?

A reverse tummy tuck is a specialised variation of a tummy tuck designed for patients with excess skin primarily affecting the upper abdomen. Instead of using a lower abdominal incision, the surgeon removes loose skin through incisions hidden beneath the breast crease, creating a firmer, smoother upper abdomen while preserving the natural contours of the lower abdomen.

The trade-offs are straightforward: a reverse tummy tuck is highly effective for improving the upper abdominal contour, particularly in patients whose skin laxity is limited to this area or following significant weight loss. However, it does leave scars concealed within the breast crease and does not address excess skin or muscle separation in the lower abdomen. For patients whose concerns are mainly below the belly button, a standard tummy tuck is often the more appropriate choice.

AT A GLANCE

Standard vs reverse tummy tuck

A quick comparison to help you understand the differences between the techniques better.

Factor

Standard Tummy Tuck

Reverse Tummy Tuck

Best For

Loose skin on lower tummy

Loose skin on upper tummy

Area Treated

Lower abdomen

Upper abdomen

Incisions

Hipbone to hipbone

In the breast crease

Initial Recovery

2-3 weeks

Price (starting from)

£3,400

£5,200

Typical Age

Age is not relevant

SUITABILITY

Is reverse tummy tuck right for you?

Major Weight Loss

If you have lost a major amount of weight and ended up with loose skin

Looseness on the Flanks

If you have excessive amount of loose skin on your upper abdominal area under the breasts

Scarring

If you don't mind extensive scarring that under your breast crease / inframammary folds

Not sure which tummy tuck you need? Full candidacy criteria are covered on our main tummy tuck page →

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ANSWERS

Frequently asked questions

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Cenk Tokat – 2026

The information provided by our company is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not provide medical services directly; instead, we facilitate connections between patients and fully accredited healthcare providers in Izmir. All medical procedures, consultations, and treatments are carried out solely by licensed physicians and medical institutions.

Individual results may vary, and all medical decisions should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. We strongly recommend that you seek independent medical advice regarding any condition or treatment options before making a decision. Our company is not responsible for any medical outcomes, complications, or decisions made based on the information provided through our platform or services.