Tummy Tuck | Abdominoplasty

Tummy Tuck, professionally known as Abdominoplasty, is a type of procedure during which fat and extra skin that has lost its elasticity are removed to make the abdomen thinner and more contoured. This type of procedure is usually sought after by patients with loose or sagging tissue after pregnancy or major weight loss.

Recovery from Tummy Tuck

This procedure’s recovery period depends on several factors, including the diagnosed issue, surgical technique(s), as well as other factors. For example, if the individual’s muscles are not subjected to the procedure, his/her recovery will be easier and faster. Most patients consider themselves completely healed after 6 to 8 weeks.

Related Preoperative Evaluations

The individual will undergo various tests before undergoing this procedure and his medical history will be reviewed.

Before, During and After Tummy Tuck

Before the Procedure

Smokers will be asked to quit smoking for at least 2 weeks pre-op and continue as such for at least 2 weeks after the procedure. It is also advisable for the patient to have someone at hand to pick him/her up after the procedure and stay with him/her for the night.

During the Procedure

There exists two types of abdominoplasty: complete abdominoplasty and partial abdominoplasty (mini-tuck). Both types of this procedure usually involve the use of Liposuction to refine the transition zones of the abdominal sculpture. After collecting abdominal muscles, the incisions are closed using small sutures and the surgery is completed. This surgery is carried out under general anesthesia and lasts 2 to 3 hours.

Complete Operation

In general, during a complete tummy tuck operation, an incision is made from hip to hip just above the pubic area. It may be necessary to move the navel in this type of operation. The skin is detached from the abdominal wall to reveal the muscles and fascia to be tightened. The muscle fascia wall is tightened with sutures.

Partial operation

In partial (or mini-truck) surgery compared with the complete (or full) operation, a smaller incision is made. This type of surgery is suitable for those who have the fat stored in the lower part of their navel.

After the Procedure

The patient must rest after the operation and avoid lifting heavy objects and performing physical activities. In most cases, a drain will be attached to the site of the procedure; this includes a tube that enters the abdomen and guides the built-up fluids out of the abdomen. It should be noted that this device will be removed after 1 to 2 weeks. During this period, the individual should be careful while taking a shower and partaking in similar activities.

Important Notes About Tummy Tuck

Not Recommended For

• Ladies who plan to become pregnant again
• People who can achieve similar results by exercising
• People with health problems

Possible Complications

• Infection
• Scarring
• Bruising
• Numbness
• Blood clots
• Anesthesia complications

Tummy Tuck is Recommended For

• The treatment of stretched abdomen muscles as a result of pregnancy
• Individuals with excess fat or skin, especially those who have undergone a major weight loss

Number of Days in Hospital

The individual will spend 1 to 3 days in the hospital.