What is Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty, or a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure which removes excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen.
This is typically caused by pregnancy, old age, or relatively minor weight gain which proves resistant to improved diet and exercise.
In addition, the abdominal muscles may, if necessary, be tightened, resulting in a firmer and narrower looking waist.
It should be noted that abdominoplasty is not a suitable treatment for obesity, nor should it be used in cases of small fat deposits where the skin retains its elasticity.
How does it work?
The surgeon makes a long incision across the abdomen, running from hipbone to hipbone and directly above the pubic area.
This is usually done in such a way as to make the future scar easy to conceal with underwear.
A second incision is then made to free the navel from its surrounding tissue.
Next, the surgeon separates the skin from the abdominal wall right up to the ribcage and pulls back the resulting flap to reveal the vertical muscles in the abdomen.
As mentioned above, these muscles can be tightened by pulling them together and stitching them into position.
The skin flap is then stretched down and the excess skin is removed.
A new hole is cut for your navel, which is then stitched into place.
Finally, the incisions will be stitched together and dressings applied.
In the event of excess fluid, a tube may be used to drain it off.
What is partial abdominoplasty?
In partial abdominoplasty, the skin is separated only as far as the navel rather than up to the ribcage.
With partial abdominoplasty, the incision is much shorter and it may not even be necessary to move the navel at all.
How long does the procedure take?
Between 2 and 4 hours, according to the complexity of the case.
What happens after surgery?
A special bandage must be worn on the treated area for two to three weeks.
In the event of severe bruising, tubes will also need to be applied to drain the excess fluid.
Stitches are removed between one and two weeks after surgery and the bruising will most likely take this long to subside.
How long before I can resume my normal activities?
Abdominoplasty is a major operation and you will need to rest completely for up to a week.
However, it is advisable to start walking as soon as possible.
You will be able to return to work after two weeks if your job isn’t physically demanding, otherwise you may have to wait up to six weeks.