Abdominoplasty: can fat return?

Does fat return after an abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal region. Can abdominal fat return some time after abdominoplasty?

Published on July 3, 2025, by Lilia, Scientific Editor — 4 min of reading

What is abdominoplasty?

The abdominoplasty is an aesthetic surgical procedure aimed at firming and reshaping the abdominal area. Performed by a plastic surgeon assisted by their team, it involves removing excess skin and fat that cause a sagging abdomen. This operation is for people with a excess skin or fat in the abdominal region: individuals after pregnancy, those who have lost substantial weight, or older people in whom skin laxity develops. Before surgery, a preoperative consultation informs the patient about the procedure, associated risks, and postoperative follow-up. The surgeon also assesses the patient’s health through medical history and examinations (blood tests, X-rays, etc.) to determine feasibility. Abdominoplasty is performed under local or general anaesthesia.

The surgeon performs a horizontal incision at the bikini line, with a length depending on the amount of skin to remove. Sometimes a second incision around the navel is necessary. After lifting the skin from the abdominal wall, he removes the excess tissue and reshapes the area. He closes with sutures, applies a dressing and a compress to reduce swelling. Once the procedure is complete, the healing phase begins. The final result is a firmer, toned abdomen.

Does fat return after abdominoplasty?

The abdominal fat accumulation can have several origins: a diet rich in fats and sugars, lack of physical activity, cutaneous ageing or hormonal imbalances. Abdominoplasty removes this excess fat and skin, improving the abdominal contour and offering a firmer, more aesthetic result.

However, this intervention does not constitute a definitive solution to excess sebum.

Indeed, abdominoplasty does not alter metabolism or dietary and behavioural habits. If the patient does not maintain lifestyle changes after surgery, fat may return. Adipose tissue can reaccumulate in the abdomen or other body areas, compromising the procedure’s aesthetic benefits. An unbalanced, high-calorie diet or sedentary lifestyle are the main causes of this rebound.

It is crucial to understand that surgery is only one tool among others to restore a balanced silhouette. To maintain long-term outcomes, a healthy lifestyle is essential. This includes a balanced diet rich in fibre, high-quality protein, and beneficial lipids, while limiting excess sugar and processed fats. Regular exercise contributes not only to preventing weight regain but also to tone the abdominal muscles and to support skin over time. A medical or nutritional follow-up may also be recommended to support the patient in this lasting lifestyle change.