A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) reshapes an abdomen that lost its tone after pregnancies, weight loss or aging. In Medellín we follow strict international anti-thrombotic protocols to keep the procedure as safe as the result is dramatic.

Quick essentials

  • Three variants: full, mini and lipo-abdominoplasty. Choice depends on diastasis and skin excess.
  • Best after multiple pregnancies or significant weight loss (> 35 lb).
  • Pricing in Medellín: USD 3,300 – 6,000 depending on technique.
  • Initial recovery: 2 weeks. Full activity: 2–3 months.

What does a tummy tuck actually do?

It corrects three problems at once:

  1. Skin excess in the lower abdomen.
  2. Rectus diastasis: separation of abdominal muscles common after pregnancy.
  3. Localized fat resistant to diet and exercise.

It is not a weight-loss procedure. It reshapes a body already near its target weight.

Variants we perform in Medellín

Full (classic) tummy tuck

Hip-to-hip horizontal incision (hidden inside bikini), navel repositioning, full rectus plication, skin resection from navel to pubis. Indicated for women after multiple pregnancies with severe diastasis and significant skin excess.

Mini tummy tuck

Shorter incision, no navel repositioning. Treats only the lower abdomen. Indicated for patients with minimal diastasis and skin excess limited to below the navel. Faster recovery.

Lipo-abdominoplasty

Combines liposuction of flanks, back and upper abdomen with classic tummy tuck. Most-requested technique in Medellín because it defines the waist, improves overall contour and produces a more harmonious result. OR time: 4–5 hours.

Am I a candidate?

  • Stable weight for at least 6 months (ideally near goal weight).
  • Done having children.
  • Non-smoker or quit tobacco 6 weeks before and 8 weeks after.
  • BMI under 30 (higher BMI: lose weight first).
  • No history of thrombosis or coagulation disorders.

2026 pricing in Medellín

  • Mini tummy tuck: USD 2,600 – 3,700.
  • Full tummy tuck: USD 3,300 – 5,000.
  • Lipo-abdominoplasty: USD 4,000 – 6,000.

All-inclusive: preop tests, third-level OR, dedicated anesthesiologist, one-night stay (recommended for full tummy tuck), postsurgical garment and 6-month follow-ups.

Anti-thrombotic safety protocol

Tummy tuck carries higher thrombotic risk than other cosmetic surgery. Our protocol:

  • Anti-embolism stockings throughout surgery.
  • Intraoperative intermittent pneumatic compression.
  • Low-molecular-weight heparin per indication.
  • Early mobilization — walking 6 hours post-op.
  • Strict fluid balance.

Recovery week-by-week

  • Days 1–3: moderate-to-high pain, semi-sitting position, oral analgesia.
  • Day 7: first follow-up, drain removal if used.
  • Day 14: suture removal, back to office work.
  • Month 1: normal walking, garment 24/7.
  • Month 2: light cardio resumed.
  • Month 3: high-impact sport and weights.
  • Month 6: stable result, scar still maturing.
  • Months 12–18: final scar, usually fine and hidden inside the bikini.

For international patients

Recommended stay in Medellín: 14 days minimum. International patients typically fly home around day 14 after first major check-up. We coordinate airport pickup and El Poblado partner-hotel rates.

Wondering which technique fits your case? Free virtual consultation with photo analysis. Schedule your consultation →