A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure in which excess skin and fat are removed from the abdomen to give a flatter stomach and tighten muscles. Both males and females can choose to undergo this procedure to lose weight. Many women undergo a tummy tuck after having children.
The results of a tummy tuck procedure are usually permanent, but weight changes can affect the outcome over time. A tummy tuck does not prevent weight gain. Choosing the right surgeon for your tummy tuck is important to ensure successful results and a good long-term outlook. In this blog, we discuss 7 crucial things to look for before choosing a surgeon for a tummy tuck procedure in Dubai.
7 Things to Look for in a Surgeon for Tummy Tuck in Dubai!
Dubai is home to some of the best and most talented cosmetic surgeons in the world, renowned for successful abdominoplasties. But how do you find the one who's right for you?
Here are 7 things you should look for when selecting a tummy tuck surgeon in Dubai!
1. Board Certification Matters
The first and most important thing to look for is your surgeon’s board certification. Is the surgeon you are considering board-certified? With a sharp rise in cosmetic procedures in the UAE in recent years, the number of clinics offering these procedures has also increased.
However, methods like a tummy tuck are performed only by those who have received adequate training. Not every doctor is trained in a tummy tuck, and not every doctor performing a tummy tuck is a formally trained, certified plastic surgeon
1:a. Importance of certified cosmetic/plastic surgeons in the UAE
Certification ensures that the surgeon has undergone rigorous education and specialised surgical training and continues to uphold high patient safety standards, ethics, and skill to perform simple and complex cosmetic procedures, such as the tummy tuck.
Look for surgeons certified by reputable international boards like the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the Royal College of Surgeons, or those recognised by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or Department of Health (DOH).
Here’s how to check your surgeon’s credentials and board certification:
- Check the clinic’s website for certifications and memberships.
- Visit official board websites and search for the surgeon’s name.
- Ask the surgeon during your consultation for proof of certification and surgical training
2. Experience in Tummy Tuck Surgeries
The next important thing to verify is your surgeon’s experience. Is the surgeon experienced in performing cosmetic procedures that involve anaesthesia? How many tummy tuck surgeries has the surgeon performed to date, and how often do they perform this procedure in a year?
When considering a tummy tuck in Dubai, the surgeon's experience in performing abdominoplasty procedures is paramount. You do not want a surgeon who does tummy tucks in addition to other procedures, but instead look for a surgeon who ‘specialises’ in them.
Look for surgeons certified by reputable international boards like the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the Royal College of Surgeons, or those recognised by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) or Department of Health (DOH).
Here’s how to check your surgeon’s credentials and board certification:
2:a.How does a specialisation in body contouring matter?
A tummy tuck is a complex surgery that requires precision to remove excess fat and skin, reshape muscles and create a smooth, natural contour. Only a surgeon experienced in body contouring understands how to balance aesthetics with function, ensuring beautiful yet durable results. So, specialisation in the field matters.
To ensure you pick a surgeon who specialises in tummy tuck, here are a few things you can ask your doctor during the consultation appointment:
- How many tummy tucks do they perform annually?
- What types of tummy tuck procedures do they offer (full, mini, extended, drainless)?
- How do they handle complex cases, like muscle repair after diastasis recti?
The more experienced the surgeon is, the more optimal your results of a tummy tuck will be.
3. Before-and-After Photos
During your consultation appointment, ask your doctor for before-and-after photos of tummy tuck cases they have performed to give you a real-world sense of the surgeon’s skills. It is easy to convince one to undergo the procedure, but beyond promises and marketing claims lie the results of the procedures performed by them.
3:a. What to look for in the results?
- Are both sides of the abdomen evenly contoured?
- Are scars discreet and positioned low enough to be hidden by underwear or swimwear?
- Does the final result look natural for the patient’s body type?
When asked, and many times before you ask, a skilled surgeon should proudly display their work online or during your consultation. If you’re shown only a handful of photos or they seem heavily edited, that’s a big red flag.
Look for patients with similar body types to visualise your potential results better.
4. Patient Reviews & Testimonials
Patient experiences, reviews, and testimonials are the real-world window into a doctor’s practice—and they are just a click away! Reading reviews and testimonials on websites like Google or other local directories offers valuable insights into what to expect, not just in terms of results but also the entire clinical experience–from chairside manners to professionalism to aftercare.
4:a. Red flags to avoid
- Consistent complaints about communication or aftercare
- Unclear or hidden pricing.
- Surgeons rushing consultations or ignoring patient concerns
While one or two negative reviews are regular, a pattern of dissatisfaction should make you think twice. Many surgeons may be good with their skills but might not give you the best treatment experience due to poor follow-up or aftercare, or lack of communication. Pick a surgeon with whom you feel more comfortable.
5. Facility & Team
The surgeon’s skill is vital, but the facility and team supporting your surgery are equally important.
Your tummy tuck should be performed in a licensed hospital or an accredited surgical centre, not a basic clinic room. Ensure the facility follows strict sterilisation practices, has emergency protocols in place, and is fully equipped for surgical procedures.
Recovery is a crucial part of your tummy tuck journey. You’ll need attentive nursing care immediately after surgery and ongoing support during your follow-up appointments.
A few things you can take note of during your consultation are:
- Is the team welcoming and professional?
- Are they knowledgeable about post-operative care?
- Is your comfort and privacy respected?
A caring team can make your recovery smoother and less stressful.
6. Consultation Approach
Your initial consultation sets the tone for the entire surgical experience. Pay close attention to how the surgeon and their team handle this meeting.
No two people are alike, so no two tummy tucks should be either. Your surgeon should thoroughly assess your abdomen, skin elasticity, and muscle conditions, listen to and evaluate your goals, and offer customised treatment options tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
Consultations with your surgeon should never be rushed. If you feel rushed, pressured to book the surgery immediately, or if the surgeon promises "perfect" results without discussing risks, these are major red flags. A responsible surgeon will provide realistic expectations and encourage you to think before deciding.
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Your safety and satisfaction should always be their priority, not a quick sale.
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7. Focus on natural results
A great surgeon will prioritise creating a natural, balanced result that suits your body and be honest about what’s achievable. Be wary of anyone promising "perfect" or "instant" results. At the same time, always pick a surgeon who gives you a more realistic view of your condition and the best that can be achieved with a tummy tuck. Overpromising is definitely a big red flag.
7:a. But what do natural results mean?
- A flatter, more toned abdomen that matches your overall body proportions
- A smooth, aesthetically pleasing waistline
- Minimal, well-hidden scars
Beware of overly tight or unnatural-looking results, as these often look artificial or lead to long-term discomfort. Ask your surgeon about their philosophy regarding natural aesthetics, and study their before-and-after gallery for proof.
An experienced surgeon will aim for aesthetic and natural-looking improvements that will help you look like a better you.
Wrapping it Up!
Choosing the best tummy tuck surgeon in Dubai is an important decision that should not be rushed. Consider 7 factors: the surgeon’s board certification, proven experience, a strong portfolio, genuine patient feedback, and a personal connection during consultation. Most importantly, select a surgeon who puts your safety and natural beauty first.
Your journey to a more confident one begins with the right hands guiding you. Choose wisely, and the results will be worth it.
If you’re looking for a trusted tummy tuck surgeon in Dubai, our experts at Hortman Clinics are here to guide you. Book a consultation today!
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