More South African women are entering a new era of body confidence, openly embracing cosmetic procedures that were once whispered about in secret.
What was once thought of as something reserved for celebrities is now becoming part of a larger conversation about self-esteem, empowerment and healing.
For many women, tummy tucks have emerged as a powerful way to reclaim their bodies after life events that leave permanent physical changes.
Once reserved for celebrities and kept a secret, tummy tucks, or tummy tucks, are losing their taboo image in South Africa.
The procedure is increasingly being adopted by women as a powerful tool for self-rehabilitation, with a marked increase in interest among black African women who are openly choosing to restore their bodies and self-confidence on their own terms.
At the head of this change is Professor Chrysis Sofianos, a respected figure in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.
“Cosmetic surgery is less about vanity and more about feeling at home in your own skin again,” she explains.
“It’s often an important investment in self-esteem, confidence and acceptance. And abs, especially after pregnancy or after weight loss, are one of the most powerful tools we have in body recovery.”
What is abdominoplasty?
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles.
The result is a smoother, firmer and more shaped silhouette.
Professor Sofianos customizes each procedure, often combining it with targeted liposuction to sculpt the waist and flanks for a balanced result.
He performs two main types of abdominoplasty:
Mini abdominoplasty: Suitable for people with minimal skin laxity below the navel, it involves a smaller incision and faster recovery.
Full abdominoplasty: Best for people with excess skin across the entire abdomen, this procedure often involves muscle repair and belly button repositioning.
Professor Sofianos stresses that this is not a weight loss solution, but a definitive answer for loose, stretched skin that no diet or exercise can fix.
“I see so many women who have done everything right… But the skin has stretched beyond its ability to retract,” she says.
“In these cases, a tummy tuck is simply the only way to remove excess skin and reveal the body they’ve worked so hard for.”
Debunking myths
Professor Sofianos is at the forefront of challenging the outdated perception that cosmetic surgery is not for black women.
He and his team are actively working to dispel several persistent myths:
“Black women don’t get cosmetic surgery.”
This is simply not true. A growing number of African women, particularly urban professionals and mothers, are incorporating cosmetic surgery into their self-care journeys.
“Cosmetic surgery is only for Western ideals of beauty.”
Today’s patients do not seek to conform, but rather to enhance and restore their natural features, celebrating their unique beauty while boosting self-confidence.
“Not safe for black skin.”
While there are specific considerations such as the greater risk of keloid scarring, Prof. Sofianos’ expertise in various skin types ensures a tailored and safe approach. “The key is understanding different skin anatomies and treatment patterns,” he states.
