Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty or tummy tuck is a plastic surgery performed to flatten the belly. An abdominoplasty is not considered as a weight loss or obesity treatment procedure. It consists in removing excess fat, excess skin and loose skin from the mid and lower part of the abdomen or correcting some slackening of muscle or skin sagging, for example after a significant weight loss or the consequences of pregnancy.

An abdominoplasty can also eliminate stretch marks.

Abdominoplasty can be performed in two ways: Mini tummy tuck or full tummy tuck

Do I need a mini tummy tuck or a full tummy tuck? Mini tummy tucks are ideal for people of normal body weight who have only a small, lower belly pooch.

If you have excess fat, sagging skin above the belly button, or have lost a lot of weight and have a lot of excess skin, you need a full tummy tuck.

An incision is made in the lower part of the abdomen, similar to a C-section, and in some cases around the belly button which is remodeled, the incision usually surrounds the hips area, but the right technique will be chosen by the surgeon as it depends on the amount of extra skin the patient has. In mini-abdominoplasty, the navel is not corrected. Fixation of the abdominal wall muscles is also performed during the surgery if needed.

The surgery takes +4 hours and is performed under general anesthesia.

The Result

The results of a tummy tuck are exceptionally permanent and clearly visible, and can last for years if the patient takes care of their health. The scars are permanent and will not completely disappear; however, they will fade greatly with time.

Most people who have undergone a tummy tuck can maintain their shape for many years after a successful operation with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

However, in the event of a new pregnancy followed by the birth of the child, some of these problems will reappear.

Before The Procedure

Before the operation the necessary medical examinations will be made.

Day D- 30

Smoking cessation is strongly recommended as it delays wound healing and may prolong overall postoperative recovery time. Oral contraceptive discontinuation may be required if appropriate risk factors are present.

Day D - 10

Aspirin, herbal teas, vitamins and blood thinners must no longer be taken.

Day D – 2

Please do not drink alcohol 48 hours prior to surgery. Please remove your nail polish as oxygen levels can be measured on your nails.

-8 Hours

Do not eat or drink anything for 8 hours prior to surgery.

Treatment Details

Surgical Scar The incision scar from a tummy tuck is permanent, but it is placed along the bikini line, which is easy to hide.

Scar running horizontally across the lower abdomen from hip to hip. The scar is generally thin and pink. The body immediately triggers a healing response to close the incision over the next few weeks.
Duration Full Tummy Tuck + 4 hours
Mini Tummy Tuck + 2 hours
Type Of Anesthesia General anesthesia
Risk Adverse reaction to anesthesia.
Fluid accumulation beneath the skin (seroma).
Numbness
Bleeding
Infection: you may be given antibiotics during and after surgery to prevent infection.
Smoking increases this risk
Side Effect Bruising
Swelling
Persistent pain
Changes in skin sensation
Allergic reaction
Recovery Time It may take up to 8 weeks.
The first week after a tummy tuck is usually the most difficult, with pain and swelling at its peak.

Recovery time varies, depending on factors such as:

The type of tummy tuck and the age of the recipient.
Individuals should discuss their recovery period with their surgeon, who can provide an estimate based on the individual's situation.

After The Surgery

The postoperative effects are sometimes painful, especially if the muscle wall has been tightened or liposuction has been performed. In the first few days it is recommended to keep as much rest as possible and avoid any vigorous exertion. The stitches are removed 10 days after surgery and the compression garment should be worn day and night for 4 to 6 weeks.

Back to work depends on the type of occupational activity, but can be considered for light work from day 8. Sporting activities can be resumed from about the 6th week.