Reverse Tummy Tuck

Consultations offered at our five convenient locations in Harley Street, London, Princess Margaret Hospital, (Windsor), Spire Thames Valley, (Gerrards Cross), Kings' Oak Hospital, (Enfield) and Refresh Medispa, (Amersham)

A reverse tummy tuck is a body contouring procedure that can restore a smoother, flatter, and more defined abdomen. It focuses on removing excess and loose skin found above the navel, leaving the lower portion of the abdomen untouched.

Dr Maisam Fazel is a leading consultant aesthetic, oncoplastic and reconstructive surgeon who specialises in an array of different surgical and non-surgical body contouring procedures at Refresh. Dr Fazel is known for surgical techniques, artistic expression, and a personalised approach to patient care, and he is one of the only surgeons across the UK performing reverse tummy tucks.

If you are interested in working with Dr Fazel, we invite you to contact us online. You may also call +44 330 660 0979 to reach our Harley Street, Windsor, Harrow, Enfield, Stoke Poges, and Amersham offices.

Before and After Photos

About Reverse Tummy Tucks

A reverse tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that can remove excess skin from the upper portion of the abdomen to create a more sculpted silhouette. (1)

Over time, life events, intrinsic factors, and extrinsic forces can wear on the upper abdomen and cause the skin to constantly stretch and contract. While this is normal, it can lead to the development of loose skin that can be difficult to address through traditional means. To avoid this, Dr Fazel can perform a reverse tummy tuck to address the middle to upper portions of the abdomen and help you restore the natural appearance of your figure!

What is the Difference Between a Tummy Tuck and a Reverse Tummy Tuck?

The main differences between a traditional tummy tuck and a reverse tummy tuck involve their incision placements and the direction the skin is being pulled in. A traditional tummy tuck uses an incision that extends between the hips, just above the pubis. (2) The skin is then pulled downward before being secured. During a reverse tummy tuck, the incision extends horizontally just below the breast crease. The skin is then pulled upward before being secured.

Benefits

Reverse tummy tucks offer numerous benefits, especially under the care of Dr Fazel. They include:

  • Precise Contouring: Reverse tummy tucks specifically target inelastic, sagging, and loose skin found above your navel to achieve a more sculpted and defined look.
  • Minimal Scarring: Dr Fazel places the incisions beneath the creases of the breasts, making it easy to hide any post-operative scarring.
  • Elevated Proportions: A reverse tummy tuck can restore a greater sense of balance between your head, breasts, and body.
  • Heightened Self-Esteem: Recontouring your figure may lead to a greater sense of self-confidence and body positivity. You may also feel empowered to wear more form-fitting or revealing garments.
  • Lasting Results: When you maintain them with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle habits, the results of your reverse tummy tuck can last for several years to come.
  • Personalised Solutions: No two patients are the same, which is why Dr Fazel tailors each reverse tummy tuck according to the anatomy, needs, and aesthetic goals of each individual.

Candidates

You may be an ideal candidate for a reverse tummy tuck if you have developed sagging skin or weakened muscles above the navel, and you now want to address it to achieve a flatter and smoother midsection.

To undergo this procedure, you should be in good general health and maintain realistic expectations regarding your results. If you have recently lost a significant amount of weight, it is important that you attain a stable weight you can maintain long term. You should also be nonsmoking or willing to quit using nicotine altogether. Dr Fazel will assess your candidacy during your personal consultation.

Personal Consultation

The first step to transforming your appearance is attending a personal consultation at any one of our offices. Dr Fazel will meet with you individually to review your medical history, discuss your concerns, and learn more about your aesthetic goals. He will also examine your natural anatomy and skin quality.

Dr Fazel will then use this information to confirm your candidacy and finalise the details of your treatment plan. He will also answer and address any questions you may have to ensure you leave feeling confident and well-informed.

If you are ready to schedule this consultation, we invite you to contact us online or call +44 330 660 0979. We have offices located in Harley Street, Windsor, Harrow, Enfield, Stoke Poges, and Amersham.

Preparation

Once you have scheduled your procedure, Dr Fazel will provide you with a detailed set of preparation instructions. They may vary depending on your surgical plan and lifestyle, but they typically include:

  • Altering Your Medication Intake: Avoid taking any medications or supplements that contain blood-thinning or antiplatelet properties.
  • Preparing Time Off: Arrange time away from your career, professional responsibilities, and social activities.
  • Arranging At-Home Care: Have a trusted friend or relative transport you home after the procedure, and have them stay with you for the first few days of your recovery.
  • Readying Your Home: Pick up any medications you will need and rearrange your home so anything you need for your recovery is within reach.
  • Stopping Any Substance Use: If applicable, stop using any nicotine or alcohol in the weeks leading up to your procedure, as well as the weeks afterwards.

Procedure

Dr Fazel performs each reverse tummy tuck on an outpatient basis using general anaesthesia. The length of your procedure will vary depending on its extent, but you can expect it to last between 2 and 4 hours.

Dr Fazel will start by placing an incision that extends horizontally across the inframammary fold, or the crease that sits beneath the breasts. He will then pull the skin upwards before excising the excess. If there is a noticeable amount of fat in the area, Dr Fazel will perform liposuction techniques to address it. He will then carefully close each incision using sutures.

Recovery

After a reverse tummy tuck, it is common to experience some swelling, bruising, and general tenderness around the healing areas. These effects will subside on their own with time, but you can manage them with medications and plenty of rest. Dr Fazel will also have you wear a compression garment to limit additional swelling throughout your recovery.

We recommend incorporating gentle movements and light walks into your routine as soon as you feel ready. By doing so, you can improve your circulation and promote better healing across the upper abdomen. You may return to light tasks and desk work after resting for approximately 1 to 2 weeks, but you will need to refrain from engaging in any heavy lifting or physically demanding activities until Dr Fazel has cleared you to return. He will provide you with additional instructions during your personal consultation.

Results

You will notice immediate improvements in the appearance and firmness of the upper abdomen, but your final results will be revealed as any residual swelling subsides. While they will vary, you can look forward to enjoying smoother and tauter skin, more even curves, elevated proportions, a more defined waist, and a flatter stomach. To best preserve these effects, we recommend maintaining a stable weight and upholding a healthy lifestyle.

Cost of Reverse Tummy Tucks on Harley Street, London

Each procedure is customised, so your reverse tummy tuck quote will vary depending on a combination of different factors, including the types of corrections you receive, the surgical techniques Dr Fazel employs, the extent of the procedure, and more. Once he has met with you to establish and finalise these details, he will provide you with an inclusive pricing estimate.

For more information about our pricing, you are welcome to check out our pricing list or contact us online for further information.

FAQ

What is the difference between a traditional tummy tuck and a reverse tummy tuck?

A traditional tummy tuck places an incision just above the pubic area and pulls the skin downward. On the contrary, reverse tummy tucks place an incision that rests across the breast crease, and Dr Fazel will pull the skin upward.

Can you repair the muscle via a reverse tummy tuck?

Yes Dr Fazel can repair muscle separation (diastasis) above the navel (belly button) via a reverse tummy tuck.

How long will it take Dr Fazel to perform a reverse tummy tuck?

The length of your tummy tuck will vary depending on its scope, but you can expect it to last around 2 hours

How long will the results of my reverse tummy tuck last?

When you maintain them with a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle, the results of your reverse tummy tuck will last for several years to come.

Can I still get pregnant after undergoing a reverse tummy tuck?

We recommend completing your family before undergoing this procedure, as pregnancy can undo the results of a reverse tummy tuck.

What type of anaesthesia will Dr Fazel use during my reverse tummy tuck?

Dr Fazel will perform your reverse tummy tuck using general anaesthesia or deep sedation

Can Dr Fazel combine my reverse tummy tuck with another procedure?

Yes! If you are interested in addressing several concerns at once or obtaining more cohesive results, Dr Fazel can combine your procedure with another.

References

  1. Alves AS, Martineau J, Dupuis A, Zuo K, Kalbermatten DF, Oranges CM. Reverse Abdominoplasty in a Patient Presenting with Subcostal Nephrectomy Scar and Transverse Muscle Incisional Hernia. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2023;11(9):e5297. doi:10.1097/GOX.0000000000005297
  2. Regan JP, Casaubon JT. Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck). PubMed. 2020. Accessed October 7, 2026. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431058/

About Dr. Maisam Fazel

Consultant Aesthetic, Onco Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon · Refresh Cosmetic Surgery

Education and training
  • Read medicine at Cambridge University (University Prize in Surgery)
  • Royal College of Surgeons Cosmetic Fellowship
  • Training, Nottingham Breast & Plastic Surgery Unit
Memberships
Teaching faculty, Royal College of Surgeons
Awards
  • Best National Onco Plastic Breast & Cosmetic Surgery Specialist in the 2019 Private Healthcare Awards
  • University Prize in Surgery, Cambridge University
Offices
London · Amersham · Enfield · Slough · Windsor · Harrow

Read Dr. Maisam Fazel's full bio