An extended tummy tuck in Turkey removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, flanks and sides that a standard tummy tuck may not fully reach. The procedure typically takes 2–4 hours under general anaesthesia and can include muscle tightening when needed.
Turkey’s cost range currently sits between $3,500 and $8,000, which is often considerably lower than quoted prices in the UK (£6,000–£9,000) or the US ($8,000–$15,000+).
This guide covers candidacy, how the surgery works, the week-by-week recovery timeline, scarring and cost factors. All figures and timeframes below are drawn from published clinical guidance or pricing already cited on this page.
If you are considering this procedure, a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the safest first step.
Because the incision line extends farther around the hips than in a standard tummy tuck, an extended abdominoplasty can address loose, overhanging skin that wraps around to the lower back.
It is most commonly considered after major weight loss, bariatric surgery, or multiple pregnancies, in situations in which skin laxity extends well beyond the front of the abdomen.
Extended Tummy Tuck Turkey: At-a-Glance
- Procedure duration: typically 2–4 hours, depending on the surgical plan
- Areas treated: front of the abdomen, flanks (sides) and, in some cases, the lower back
- Hospital stay: an overnight stay may be recommended; your surgeon will confirm
- Early recovery: soreness managed with medication in the first 3 days; short walks from 1–2 weeks; light exercise from about 1 month; most patients resume daily activities by 3 months
- Scarring: incision usually runs hip to hip and around the navel; typically concealed by underwear or swimwear, and tends to fade with proper tummy tuck scar care
- Cost range (Turkey): $3,500–$8,000, depending on surgeon experience, anaesthesia type, facility and any combined procedures
- Muscle repair: often included when the abdominal wall has separated (diastasis recti), but it depends on the individual surgical plan
What an Extended Tummy Tuck Does
An extended tummy tuck, also called extended abdominoplasty, removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and sides, as described in the BAAPS abdominoplasty overview, when diet and exercise have not been effective. The procedure typically takes 2–4 hours.
It is commonly performed to improve the appearance of the abdomen after pregnancy or significant weight loss. It may also help patients who have excess skin remaining after bariatric surgery or previous abdominal operations.
The key difference from a standard tummy tuck is the length of the incision, as outlined in guidance on different types of tummy tucks. By extending it beyond the hips, the surgeon can address extended abdominoplasty options for skin laxity that wraps around to the flanks and, in some cases, the lower back. This makes the extended version more suitable for patients whose excess tissue extends beyond the front of the abdomen.
According to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), abdominoplasty prices in the United Kingdom typically range from £6,000 to £9,000. The final price can vary depending on the extent of the surgery required.
An extended procedure often falls toward the upper end of this range because it involves a wider treatment area, a longer operating time of 2–4 hours, and additional recovery planning. Patients considering surgery abroad should compare what is included in each quoted price before making a decision.
Candidacy: Who May Be Suitable
Patients with excess skin on the abdomen and flanks who have undergone weight loss of 30 kg or more, bariatric surgery or multiple pregnancies may be suitable candidates.
You may be considered if:
- You have significant excess skin following major weight loss.
- You have experienced significant skin stretching after one or more pregnancies and are considering a mommy makeover during your consultation.
- You have loose abdominal and flank skin remaining after bariatric surgery.
Pre-operative assessment
Your surgeon will carry out a physical examination and review your medical history. This typically includes:
- Blood pressure checks
- A questionnaire covering allergies and current medications
- A discussion of your goals and realistic expectations
It is generally advised to avoid planning a pregnancy before the procedure, as pregnancy can reverse the results. Being at or near a steady weight may improve both safety and long-term outcomes.
According to The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the cost of an extended tummy tuck in the United States can range from $8,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case and the surgeon’s location. These figures typically cover the surgeon’s fee, anaesthesia and facility costs. Still, patients should confirm exactly what is and is not included in any quote they receive.
Cost Ranges: Turkey, UK & US
Cost varies by country, surgeon experience, anaesthesia type, facility fees, and tummy tuck package pricing, which often depends on whether additional procedures, such as liposuction, are performed at the same time. The ranges below are for an extended abdominoplasty specifically.
Country Typical Range Source
Turkey $3,500–$8,000 Clinic pricing data
United Kingdom £6,000–£9,000 BAAPS
United States $8,000–$15,000+ ASPS
The NHS website cites £4,500–£6,000 for standard abdominoplasty; extended procedures may cost more.
In short, Turkey’s range starts at roughly $3,500, the UK’s at about £6,000, and the US’s at around $8,000. Differences largely reflect local facility overheads and cost of living rather than surgical standards.
What Affects the Price
The total cost can depend on several factors:
- Surgeon qualifications and experience
- Type of anaesthesia used
- Hospital or clinic facility fees
- Whether muscle repair or liposuction is included
- Post-operative garments or follow-up appointments are included in the package
Prices are not fixed and can change. Always request an itemised quote and confirm inclusions before committing.
Turkey Quote Checklist: Inclusions, Exclusions & Timeline
Common inclusions to ask about:
- Surgeon and anaesthetist fees
- Hospital or clinic stay
- Pre-operative blood tests
- Compression garment
- Post-operative check-ups
Common exclusions to ask about:
- International flights
- Accommodation before and after the hospital stay
- Travel insurance
- Additional procedures priced separately (e.g. liposuction, muscle repair)
- Prescription medications after discharge
Planning timeline (general guide):
- 6–8 weeks before travel: request a detailed quote; share medical history and photographs for a preliminary assessment
- 4 weeks before: complete any blood tests or health checks your surgeon requests
- 1–2 weeks before: confirm accommodation, transfers and any companion or aftercare arrangements
- Day of arrival: attend an in-person consultation; final surgical plan is confirmed
- Surgery and early recovery: an overnight hospital stay may be recommended; most clinics schedule at least one post-operative check before you travel home
- Return travel: timing depends on your surgeon’s advice and your recovery progress; do not book a fixed return flight without discussing this with your surgical team first
Every clinic structures its packages differently. The items above are common questions to ask, not a guaranteed inclusion list.
According to The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), Turkey has become one of the most frequently chosen destinations for cosmetic surgery among international patients, with abdominoplasty ranking among the most commonly performed procedures.
Patients are advised to verify that their chosen surgeon holds relevant board certification and operates in an accredited facility, regardless of price. In the ISAPS Global Survey 2023, abdominoplasty appears among the top surgical aesthetic procedures reported worldwide.
Extended vs Standard Tummy Tuck
A standard tummy tuck uses a bikini-line incision and focuses on the lower abdomen. It is often suitable for mild to moderate skin laxity, for example, after pregnancy or minor weight fluctuations.
An extended tummy tuck uses a longer incision that continues around the hips toward the flanks. This allows the surgeon to address a wider area of loose skin, including the sides and, in some cases, the lower back. It is typically considered when excess skin extends well beyond the front of the abdomen.
Both procedures can include muscle repair and may be combined with liposuction. The choice between them depends on how much tissue needs to be removed and where it is located, something your surgeon will assess during a consultation.
Procedure Selector: 4 Abdominoplasty Types Compared
Extended tummy tuck
- Candidate cues: significant excess skin on the abdomen and flanks; common after major weight loss or bariatric surgery
- Scar pattern: hip to hip, extending toward the back; scar around the navel
- Addresses: front of the abdomen and sides; may include muscle repair
- Does not typically address: upper-abdomen vertical excess or full circumference of the torso
Full (standard) tummy tuck
- Candidate cues: moderate excess skin mainly on the lower abdomen; common after pregnancy or mild weight loss
- Scar pattern: hip to hip along the bikini line; scar around the navel
- Addresses: lower abdominal skin and muscle; may be combined with liposuction
- Does not typically address: flanks, sides or lower back
Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck
- Candidate cues: excess skin both horizontally and vertically on the abdomen; often seen after very large weight loss
- Scar pattern: horizontal scar (hip to hip) plus a vertical scar up the midline
- Addresses: horizontal and vertical skin excess on the front of the abdomen
- Does not typically address: flanks or back, unless combined with other techniques
Circumferential / 360 tummy tuck
- Candidate cues: excess skin around the full circumference of the torso, including the back, often following massive weight loss
- Scar pattern: a wrap-around (360-degree) incision around the torso at waist level
- Addresses: abdomen, flanks, lower back and sometimes the buttocks
- Does not typically address: upper-abdomen vertical excess (a fleur-de-lis element may be added)
The boundaries between these procedures are not rigid. Many surgical plans borrow elements from multiple techniques. The right option depends on your anatomy, your goals and your surgeon’s recommendation.
According to BAAPS, the type of abdominoplasty recommended depends on the volume and distribution of excess skin, the condition of the underlying muscles, and the patient’s overall health.
Patients who have lost a large amount of weight may need a more extensive procedure, such as an extended or circumferential approach, which typically involves a longer operating time of 2–4 hours and a recovery period of up to 3 months.
How the Surgery Is Performed
The procedure typically takes 2–4 hours under general anaesthesia. Before the operation, you will have a consultation to agree on the surgical plan, including whether liposuction, muscle repair, or another technique should be combined.
On the day of surgery:
- General anaesthesia is administered.
- The surgeon makes incisions that extend beyond the standard tummy tuck line, reaching around the hips toward the flanks.
- Excess skin and fat are removed.
- Abdominal muscles may be tightened if they have separated.
- Liposuction may be used to contour the surrounding areas.
- The remaining skin is repositioned and sutured.
An overnight hospital stay may be recommended depending on the extent of surgery.
Whether a staged approach is used depends entirely on the surgeon’s plan and the patient’s needs. Not every extended tummy tuck is performed in two stages. Your surgeon will explain the approach they recommend for your case.
Recovery Timeline: Days 1 to 3 Months
Recovery from an extended tummy tuck generally takes 4–6 weeks before patients can return to most daily activities, with a tummy tuck recovery timeline often reaching full healing around 3 months. The milestones below are general guides. Always follow your own surgeon’s instructions, as they take priority.
Timepoint What to expect
Days 1–3 Soreness managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief. Cold packs may help swelling. Contact your team if discomfort seems excessive.
Weeks 1–2 Pain typically begins to reduce. Short, gentle walks encouraged to support circulation and reduce blood-clot risk. Avoid lifting, bending or straining.
Week 3 Swelling gradually decreases. Stay hydrated; a compression garment (if recommended) may support healing and scar management.
Month 1 Incisions begin to heal visibly. Light exercise — such as walking at a moderate pace — may be introduced if your surgeon agrees.
Week 6 Many patients return to more regular activity with less pain. Scar line often becomes less noticeable. Surgeon may advise stopping compression garments.
Month 3 Most patients feel fully healed and resume daily activities. Scars continue to mature over the following months.
Key numbers: soreness peaks in the first 3 days; gentle walking from 1–2 weeks; light exercise from about 1 month; most patients back to daily life by 3 months. Full scar maturation can take a year or longer.
NHS tummy tuck recovery guidance notes that recovery from abdominoplasty generally takes several weeks, with most patients advised to take 4–6 weeks off work.
Full recovery, including the final appearance of scars, may take several months. Patients who combine an extended tummy tuck with other procedures should expect a recovery period toward the longer end of this range.
Scarring: Location, Size & Aftercare
An extended tummy tuck scar typically runs from one hip to the other. It encircles the belly button with a longer line than a standard tummy tuck scar, often reaching toward the sides or lower back. In most cases, the scar sits low enough to be concealed by underwear or swimwear.
Aftercare options your surgeon may suggest include:
- Silicone gel pads or sheets
- Scar massage techniques
- A compression garment during the early weeks
The final appearance varies depending on your skin type, healing response, and how well you follow aftercare instructions. It is reasonable to expect the scar to continue to change over months and fade over time, consistent with the BAPRAS scarring timeline for abdominoplasty.
Combining with Liposuction
Yes, an extended abdominoplasty and liposuction in Turkey can often be combined in a single session. Liposuction may contour surrounding areas such as the flanks, hips or lower back by removing fat deposits that skin removal alone may not address.
Your surgeon will advise whether combining the two is appropriate for your case. In some situations, it may be safer or more effective to stage the procedures separately.
According to ASPS, combining abdominoplasty with liposuction is a common approach in body contouring. The decision to combine or stage depends on the amount of tissue to be removed, the patient’s overall health, and the surgeon’s clinical judgment. Operating time for a combined procedure may fall toward the upper end of the 2–4 hour range.
Muscle Repair During an Extended Tummy Tuck
An extended abdominoplasty usually includes repair of the abdominal muscles, particularly when they have separated, a condition called diastasis recti. This separation is common after pregnancy or a significant weight change.
Tightening the muscles can improve abdominal tone and give a firmer appearance. The extent of muscle repair depends on your individual needs and will be assessed during your consultation.
Combining with Lipo 360
Some patients choose to combine an extended tummy tuck with Lipo 360, which involves liposuction of the full midsection abdomen, flanks, waist and lower back in a single session. This combination aims to remove excess skin while contouring the surrounding areas.
Whether this is suitable depends on the volume of tissue involved, your general health and your surgeon’s assessment. Combined procedures may involve a longer operating time and a slightly longer recovery period.
Extended Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty
A fleur-de-lis tummy tuck adds a vertical incision to the standard horizontal one, allowing the surgeon to remove excess skin in both directions. It is most often considered after very significant weight loss when loose skin sits both above and below the navel.
When the fleur-de-lis technique is combined with the extended approach, the surgeon can address skin laxity across the abdomen, flanks, and vertical midline in a single procedure. The resulting scar pattern, both horizontal and vertical, is more extensive, and this should be discussed thoroughly with your surgeon before deciding.
According to the Royal College of Surgeons of England, patients who have undergone bariatric surgery and lost substantial weight may require more complex body-contouring procedures, such as a fleur-de-lis or extended abdominoplasty, to address widespread skin laxity. These typically carry a recovery timeline of up to 3 months for full healing.
Thigh Lifting: What This Procedure Can and Cannot Do
An extended tummy tuck primarily addresses the abdomen and flanks. It does not directly lift the thighs, although some patients notice a mild improvement in the upper thigh area when lower abdominal skin is tightened.
If thigh laxity is a significant concern, separate procedures such as a thigh lift or liposuction may be more effective. Your surgeon can advise on whether combining these with an extended tummy tuck is safe and appropriate.
Back Lift: Separate Procedure or Circumferential Approach
An extended tummy tuck addresses the abdomen and flanks but does not typically include a back lift. If excess skin or fat on the back is a concern, a separate back lift may be recommended.
In some cases, a circumferential (360) tummy tuck, which extends the incision around the entire body, may address both the front and back in a single procedure. Your surgeon will explain whether this approach is relevant to your situation.
According to the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), patients who need skin removal from both the front and back of the torso are typically assessed for a circumferential body lift rather than an extended tummy tuck alone. The two procedures differ in incision length, operating time (often 4 hours or more for a full circumferential lift) and recovery requirements.
Extended Tummy Tuck FAQs
Turkey’s range is typically $3,500–$8,000 for an extended abdominoplasty. The UK equivalent is usually £6,000–£9,000 (BAAPS), while the US range is $8,000–$15,000+ (ASPS). These differences largely reflect local facility overheads and cost of living. Always request an itemised quote so you know exactly what each figure includes and excludes before making a comparison.
A comprehensive quote typically covers surgeon and anaesthetist fees, hospital stay, pre-operative blood tests, a compression garment and post-operative check-ups. Flights, accommodation, travel insurance and any separately priced add-ons (e.g. liposuction) are commonly excluded. Ask for a written, itemised breakdown before committing.
Most surgeons recommend at least one post-operative check before international travel. Gentle walking is encouraged for 1–2 weeks. Still, your surgeon will advise on a safe timeline for flying based on your individual recovery. Do not book a fixed-return flight without first discussing the timing with your surgical team.
Patients who are not at a stable weight, who plan a pregnancy in the near future or who have uncontrolled medical conditions may be advised to wait. A pre-operative assessment, including blood pressure checks and a medication review, helps your surgeon determine whether it is safe to proceed. Being near your target weight may improve both safety and long-term outcomes.
As the Mayo Clinic tummy tuck risks overview explains, risks may include blood clots, infection, delayed wound healing and scarring. Early mobilisation, gentle walking from 1–2 weeks, and following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions can help reduce these risks. Your surgeon will discuss procedure-specific risks during your consultation.
A standard tummy tuck uses a bikini-line incision and focuses on the lower abdomen. The extended version uses a longer incision reaching toward the flanks and sides. Both typically take 2–4 hours and may include muscle repair. Your surgeon will recommend the right option based on where your excess skin is located.
Light exercise, such as moderate-pace walking, may begin around 1 month after surgery, subject to your surgeon’s approval. More regular physical activity is often possible by week 6. Full recovery, including scar maturation, may take 3 months or longer. Always follow your surgeon’s personalised timeline rather than general guidance.
If you are considering an extended tummy tuck and would like to understand whether you are a suitable candidate, requesting a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is a reasonable first step. During a consultation, you can discuss your goals, review your medical history and receive a personalised assessment with no obligation to proceed.
Conclusion
An extended tummy tuck can address excess skin on the abdomen and flanks, typically in a 2–4 hour procedure with a recovery period of roughly 4–6 weeks before most daily activities resume.
Costs in Turkey generally range from $3,500 to $8,000, lower than comparable UK (£6,000–£9,000) or US ($8,000–$15,000+) pricing.
However, the included services vary between clinics. Results depend on individual anatomy, overall health and the surgical plan, so that no outcome can be guaranteed.
If you are exploring this option, a personalised consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the most reliable way to understand whether the procedure suits your needs and what to expect.
Medically reviewed by Op. Dr. Mehmet Uzuner, board-certified plastic surgeon (TSPRAS). Based in Istanbul, he combines extensive surgical experience with a patient-centred approach, known for precise technique and natural-looking outcomes, and stays current through active international society involvement
