Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten muscles of the abdomen wall. The procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen.
What is the abdominoplasty surgical procedure and how does it work?
A full tummy tuck works by removing loose skin, fat deposits, and stretch marks from the abdominal region.
In addition, vertical abdominal muscles that have been stretched and weakened over time are tightened, restoring the appearance of a firmer, flatter abdomen.
Tummy tuck procedures can be performed alone, but are often performed in conjunction with liposuction to further improve body contours.
Is the tummy tuck procedure right for me?
The best candidates for an abdominoplasty are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that won't respond to exercise or diet.
Patients who intend to lose a lot of weight or women who plan future pregnancies should wait, as vertical muscles in the abdomen that are tightened during surgery can separate again during pregnancy. If you have scarring from previous abdominal surgery, your doctor may recommend against Abdominoplasty surgery.
The Aesthetica consultation process.
In your initial consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your health, determine the extent of the fat deposits in your abdominal region, and carefully assess your skin tone. Be sure to tell your surgeon if you smoke, and if you're taking any medications, vitamins or other drugs.
Be sure to discuss with your surgeon your expectations, he will describe any alternatives, risks and limitations of each. If, for example, your fat deposits are limited to the area below the navel, you may require a less complex procedure called a partial abdominoplasty, also known as a mini tummy tuck. You may, on the other hand benefit more from a partial or complete abdominoplasty in conjunction with liposuction to remove fat deposits from the hips for a better body contour. Or maybe liposuction alone would create the best result. In any case, your surgeon will work with you to recommend the procedure that is right for you.
What happens during an abdominoplasty procedure?
Complete abdominoplasty usually takes two to five hours depending on the extent of work required. Partial abdominoplasty may take an hour or two.
Abdominoplasty usually requires a full anesthetic. An incision is made across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic region. The length of the incision depends on the amount of skin to be removed. A second incision is made to free the navel from surrounding tissue. With partial abdominoplasty, the incision is much shorter and the navel may not be moved. The skin is then separated from the abdominal wall all the way up to your ribs, the skin is then lifted and to reveal the vertical muscles in your abdomen. When necessary these muscles are tightened by pulling them close together and stitching them into their new position. This provides a firmer abdominal wall and narrows the waistline.
The skin flap is then stretched down and the extra skin removed. A new hole is cut for your navel, which is then stitched into place. Finally the incisions will be stitched, dressings applied, and a temporary tube may be inserted to drain excess fluid from the surgical site.
In partial abdominoplasty, the skin is separated only between the incision line and the navel. The skin is stretched down, the excess skin removed, and the flap stitched back into place.
How will I look and feel after a tummy tuck?
For the first few days after a tummy tuck your abdomen will probably be swollen and you're likely to feel some pain and discomfort which can be controlled with medication that will be provided. Depending on the extent of your abdominal surgery you may be released within a few hours of the surgery or you may need to remain hospitalized overnight. This will discussed and organized for you prior to your abdominoplasty surgery.
The staff at Aesthetica will provide you with instructions for showering and changing dressings. And though you may not be able to stand straight at first, you should start walking as soon as possible.
Surface sutures will be removed in five to seven days, and deeper sutures, with the ends that protrude through the skin, will be taken out in two to three weeks. The dressing on your incision my be replaced by a support garment.
The recovery process.
It may take you a few weeks to feel yourself again. If you start out in top physical condition with strong abdominal muscles then recovery from an abdominoplasty will be much faster. Most people return to work after approximately two weeks or three weeks.
Exercise will help you heal better. Even people who have never exercised before should begin an exercise program to reduce swelling, lower the chance of blood clots and tone muscles. Vigorous exercise, however, should be avoided until you can do it comfortably.
What risks are associated with abdominoplasty?
Thousands of abdominoplasty procedures are performed successfully each year and the results are generally quite positive. Nevertheless, there are always risks associated with every surgical procedure. All risks will be discussed in detail with the doctor at your consultation.
How much does a tummy tuck cost?
Every case is different and every patient has their own specific requirements and expectations, therefore it is hard to give an exacting price for every procedure. Our doctors and practice manager can provide you with a proposal specifically tailored to suit you. You are most welcome to book a free no-obligation consultation with one of our Doctors or qualified nurses where your requirements will be discussed.
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