Where surgical precision meets aesthetic artistry. Dr. Leonard practices a refined craft, perfected through experience, mastery, and an uncompromising eye for natural balance.
Loose skin around the abdomen can develop after significant weight loss or pregnancy, and a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is designed to restore a firmer, more contoured midsection by removing excess skin and fat while tightening the abdominal muscles. The procedure may also reduce the appearance of stretch marks, particularly those located on the lower abdomen. As there are several types of tummy tuck procedures, Dr. Leonard carefully discusses the available options to determine the most suitable approach for each patient. In a standard abdominoplasty, an incision is made across the lower abdomen, excess skin is removed, underlying muscles are tightened, liposuction may be performed to refine contours, and the belly button is repositioned. An extended abdominoplasty additionally addresses excess skin and fat of the groin and lower back, while a mini abdominoplasty focuses on the lower abdomen without altering the position of the belly button. Often chosen as part of a mommy makeover, a tummy tuck can remove a substantial amount of excess skin, create a flatter and more defined abdomen, and significantly improve body proportions. Beyond aesthetic enhancement, the procedure may improve physical comfort, increase tolerance for exercise, motivate healthier lifestyle choices, and contribute to overall well-being—benefits that, for many patients, extend beyond appearance alone.
A standard, or full, abdominoplasty is the most commonly performed tummy tuck procedure. It addresses the entire abdominal area, from the pubic region to the rib cage. Dr. Leonard creates a carefully planned incision from hip to hip, through which excess skin and fat are removed and the underlying abdominal muscles are tightened and reinforced. The incision is positioned low along the bikini line to allow the scar to remain discreet and easily concealed. In most cases, the navel is repositioned or reconstructed to maintain natural proportions, which may result in a small scar around the belly button.
A mini abdominoplasty is suitable for patients with mild skin laxity and excess tissue limited to the area below the belly button. During this procedure, Dr. Leonard removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen, making it particularly effective for addressing localised fullness or skin overhang above the pubic area. The incision is shorter and similar in placement to a Caesarean section scar. Because the procedure is less extensive, recovery time is typically shorter than with a full abdominoplasty.
Endoscopic abdominoplasty is a minimally invasive option designed primarily to tighten and repair the abdominal muscles rather than remove significant excess skin. Through small, discreet incisions, Dr. Leonard inserts a tiny camera connected to a flexible tube, allowing precise visualisation of the abdominal wall. Specialised surgical instruments are then used to correct muscle separation and strengthen the abdominal structure, resulting in improved contour with minimal scarring.
Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia with a consultant anaesthetist present throughout the procedure. Operative time typically ranges from two to five hours, depending on the surgical technique selected and whether adjunct liposuction is performed. Most patients remain in hospital for one to two nights to allow for appropriate monitoring, pain management, and early mobilisation.
A low, horizontal incision is carefully planned within the pubic region. Its length and exact positioning are determined by the amount of excess skin and the individual abdominal anatomy. Dr. Leonard designs the incision to sit discreetly beneath standard underwear and swimwear, with an emphasis on symmetry and a low-profile scar.
Closed-suction drains may be placed during surgery and are usually retained for up to one week, depending on output and intraoperative assessment. A medical-grade compression garment is worn for approximately six weeks to support healing, reduce swelling, and optimise the final contour.
Postoperative bruising and swelling typically improve within the first six weeks, with further refinement continuing over several months. Light activity, such as walking, is generally encouraged from two to three weeks, while heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for up to eight weeks, or until cleared during follow-up appointments.
Seline Clinic
Umm Suqeim 1
623 Jumeira St.
Dubai, UAE
Dubai London Hospital
Umm Suqeim 2
Jumeirah Beach Road
Dubai, UAE
+971 544 215 215
booking@drleonard.ae
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