Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)

Wednesday the 3rd of March, 2010 No Comments »

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Men and women are becoming increasingly aware of their body shape and seeking other options to obtain attractive contours and proportions. For some people, Cosmetic Surgery, specifically Abdominoplasty (commonly referred to as tummy tuck) provides an appropriate solution. Abdominoplasty is primarily intended to remove excess skin and tissue and tighten the underlying muscle to achieve a flat and toned abdomen.

The most appropriate candidates for Abdominoplasty are men or women who are close to an optimal and stable weight with residual and excess skin and/or tissue that does not respond to diet and exercise. Typically these patients have already lost a significant amount of weight or for women, have had several pregnancies and desire for their tummy area to return to the pre-pregnancy shape.

In your consultation with the certified Cosmetic Surgeon, the surgeon will take a thorough medical history and will usually require you to have a range of blood tests, potentially ruling out underlying reasons for weight gain. You will be advised to reach a stable and appropriate weight prior to surgery. Abdominoplasty should not be seen as a weight loss strategy.

Abdominoplasty surgery involves a general anaesthetic and can typically take between 2 and 4 hours to complete depending on the complexity and extent of the surgery. In preparation for surgery, the Cosmetic Surgeon will mark the abdomen and the estimated skin and tissue to be removed. The initial incision is made across the lower abdomen; for women this incision can incorporate a caesarian scar. The skin and tissue excised and removed is typically between the pubic area and the belly button, with the remaining skin redraped and stretched over the tummy to create an optimal contour. Loose abdominal muscles are tightened through a process of stitching. Finally the incision is closed with sutures.

The recovery period following Abdominoplasty varies between individuals and the complexity and degree of the surgery performed. Patients are usually up and about the day after surgery and able to go home. The feeling following surgery has been likened to having done a thousand sit ups; patients need to rest and take care not to be in a position that puts any strain on the incision site and stitches. Within a few days, it is easier to straighten up. For 6 to 8 weeks following surgery, patients are required to wear a compression garment. This is to be worn to protect and support the incision site and promote adherence of the underlying tissues. Swelling can take up to 3 months to resolve. Straining of the abdominal muscles needs to be avoided; hence patients are required to avoid strenuous activity including lifting and have adequate rest.

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with Abdominoplasty, such as bleeding, infection, blood clots, asymmetry, and loss of skin sensitivity or swelling. These risks and other complications should be discussed thoroughly by the certified Cosmetic Surgeon prior to your surgery.

Patients who have undergone Abdominoplasty surgery typically describe satisfaction with their body shape, contour and body proportion with the benefits of comfort and confidence to wear a range of clothes.