FDL Abdominoplasty (Fleur-de-Lis) in Turkey
The gold standard for post-weight-loss body contouring, FDL tummy tuck with one area of liposuction included, from £4,865.
If you have lost a significant amount of weight, whether through bariatric surgery, diet, or lifestyle changes, you should feel incredibly proud. But the reality is that major weight loss often leaves behind excess skin that no amount of exercise can tighten.
The FDL (Fleur-de-Lis) abdominoplasty is specifically designed for this situation. Unlike a standard tummy tuck which only addresses horizontal excess skin, the FDL technique removes excess skin both horizontally and vertically. This makes it the most effective option for patients who have loose skin that folds and drapes across the abdomen in multiple directions.
Your all-inclusive package from £3,385 includes one area of liposuction, your procedure at a government-licensed hospital, 2 nights in hospital, 5 nights in a 5-star hotel, VIP airport transfers, a personal translator, and 12 months of aftercare. In the UK, this specialist procedure costs £8,000-£12,000.
What Is FDL Abdominoplasty (one area lipo included)?
The FDL (Fleur-de-Lis) abdominoplasty is an advanced tummy tuck technique that uses two incisions to remove excess skin in both the horizontal and vertical planes.
The incision pattern creates an inverted-T shape: a horizontal incision across the lower abdomen (similar to a standard tummy tuck) plus a vertical incision running from the breastbone down to the pubic area. This allows your surgeon to remove a large panel of excess skin, tighten the abdominal muscles along their full length, and reshape the entire abdominal wall.
The "Fleur-de-Lis" name comes from the lily-shaped incision pattern. While this does result in a vertical scar down the centre of the abdomen (in addition to the horizontal scar), for patients with significant excess skin after major weight loss, this trade-off is overwhelmingly worthwhile.
Who is it for? The FDL tummy tuck is specifically designed for patients with excess skin that hangs both downward and outward, typically after losing 30kg or more. It is the gold standard for post-bariatric body contouring of the abdomen.
The included one-area liposuction helps refine the result, typically targeting the flanks or upper abdomen.
Am I Suitable?
You may be a good candidate for an FDL abdominoplasty if you:
- Have lost a significant amount of weight (typically 30kg or more)
- Have excess skin that folds and drapes both horizontally and vertically across your abdomen
- A standard tummy tuck would not remove enough excess skin
- Are at a stable weight for at least 6-12 months
- Are in good general health and your nutrition is well-managed (particularly important for post-bariatric patients)
- Do not smoke, or can stop 6 weeks before the procedure
If your excess skin is primarily below the navel and can be addressed with a horizontal incision alone, a standard tummy tuck may be sufficient.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Before your trip: Detailed video consultation to assess the extent of your excess skin and plan the procedure. Your surgeon may request recent blood tests to check nutritional status (important for post-bariatric patients).
Day 1, Arrival: VIP airport transfer to your 5-star hotel.
Day 2, Procedure day: Final assessment and extensive surgical markings while standing. The FDL abdominoplasty with liposuction takes approximately 3-4 hours under general anaesthesia. Excess skin is removed, muscles are tightened, and the abdomen is reshaped.
Days 3-4, Hospital stay: Private room with 24-hour nursing care. Drains are placed to prevent fluid collection. A compression garment is fitted.
Days 5-7, Hotel recovery: Daily patient coordinator visits. Compression garment worn continuously. Gentle walking is essential.
Day 8, Departure: Final check-up, drain removal if ready, and VIP airport transfer.
Months 1-12: Close aftercare monitoring with regular check-ins.
Recovery & Aftercare
FDL abdominoplasty is a more extensive procedure than a standard tummy tuck, and recovery requires patience.
Week 1: Significant swelling and discomfort. Prescribed pain medication. Drains may remain in place for 7-14 days. Walk in a slightly bent position to reduce tension on the incisions. Compression garment worn 24/7.
Weeks 2-3: Swelling begins to subside. Light daily activities possible. Drains are removed (if not already). You begin to see the dramatic change in your abdominal shape.
Weeks 4-6: Most patients return to desk work. Swelling continues to decrease. Gentle walking and light activity encouraged. No heavy lifting.
Weeks 6-8: Gradually increase activity. Moderate exercise can resume with your surgeon's approval.
Months 3-12: Your final shape emerges as all swelling resolves. Scars mature from red/pink to lighter tones over 12-18 months. Most patients say the transformation is extraordinary, many describe it as completing their weight-loss journey.
Risks & Considerations
FDL abdominoplasty, as a more extensive procedure, carries a higher complication profile than a standard tummy tuck. Potential risks include infection, bleeding, seroma (fluid collection), wound healing issues (particularly at the T-junction where incisions meet), scarring, numbness, and blood clots.
Post-bariatric patients may have nutritional deficiencies that affect healing. Your surgical team will check your blood work and advise on any supplements needed before and after the procedure.
All procedures are performed in government-licensed, JCI-accredited hospitals with experienced surgical teams and 12 months of dedicated aftercare.
UK vs Turkey: What You Save
UK prices are indicative ranges based on private healthcare providers. Your THST price is confirmed during your free consultation.
UK Aftercare: We Are Here When You Get Home
Unlike other medical tourism companies, we do not leave you on your own once you are back in the UK. We have two dedicated aftercare clinics staffed by NHS-registered wound care specialists, so you can see a professional face-to-face for wound checks, dressing changes, and recovery support.
Medical disclaimer: Results of any surgical or interventional procedure may vary from person to person. You are advised to consult your physician for detailed information before undergoing any procedure. The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice. See our Medical Disclaimer for full details.
What Our Patients Say
Real reviews from real patients. Their words, not ours.
"My only regret was not having surgery sooner. The whole experience was positive throughout. My friends have already booked."
"Best hospital and staff you can meet. The dedication of the hospital staff and the life-changing care, everything was exceptional."
"My escorted trip was wonderfully organised. The hospital facilities were excellent and I felt safe and supported throughout."
Frequently Asked Questions
After major weight loss, excess skin often hangs both downward (requiring a horizontal incision) and outward from the midline (requiring a vertical incision). A standard tummy tuck only addresses the horizontal excess. If your surgeon tried to remove all the skin with just a horizontal incision, you would be left with bunching and folds at the sides. The FDL technique addresses both planes for a smooth result.
The vertical scar runs from the breastbone to the pubic area. It is more visible than a standard tummy tuck scar initially, but it fades significantly over 12-18 months. Most patients feel the scar is a very worthwhile trade-off for the removal of large amounts of excess skin that was affecting their daily life and confidence.
Your surgeon will want you at a stable weight for at least 6-12 months before the FDL tummy tuck. There is no specific weight target, but your weight should not be actively fluctuating. If you have had bariatric surgery, most surgeons recommend waiting 12-18 months post-surgery before body contouring.
Yes. Many post-bariatric patients combine an FDL tummy tuck with arm lifts, thigh lifts, or breast work as part of a staged body contouring plan. Discuss your full goals with your patient coordinator, they can create a phased treatment plan if needed.
The amount varies depending on your body. In major weight-loss cases, it is not unusual for several kilograms of excess skin to be removed. Your surgeon will assess the exact amount during your consultation and show you where the incisions will be placed.
Combine Treatments and Save
Many patients combine procedures in a single trip, reducing recovery time and overall cost. Build your personalised package and get a free quote.
Build Your Package →Find Your Perfect Treatment
Take our 2-minute quiz and get personalised recommendations based on your goals.
Take the Quiz →Still researching? Talk to people who have been where you are.
Our private Facebook community has over 8,000 members, past patients, people preparing for treatment, and others weighing up their options. Ask anything, read honest experiences, and make your decision with confidence. No sales pitch, just real people.