Abdominoplasty, also known as a “tummy tuck”, is a popular cosmetic procedure for muscle tightening as well as fascia of the abdominal wall. The overall intent is to make the abdomen thinner and firmer.
The abdomen is one of the areas of the body that is subject to change for a number of reasons; from significant weight gain or loss, proceeding bariatric surgery or after giving birth. As a result, these changes reflect in the body in the form of excess skin and fat, as well as a change in belly button shape caused by loose, heavy folds of belly skin. Unfortunately, these are common concerns that cannot be improved by simply following a healthy diet and a regular exercise program.
The answer comes in the form of abdominoplasty, which can dramatically change your appearance by removing the extra, sagging skin and eventually improve the shape and tone of tissue in the abdomen for a firmer and flatter end result.
Technique
Depending on the severity of the problem, there are two basic techniques for this procedure:
- Mini abdominoplasty (mini tummy tuck): It is addresses to patients with small amounts of abdominal excess skin. During a mini abdominoplasty, the belly button is usually not repositioned
- Classical abdominoplasty (classical tummy tuck): In this case, the belly button is excised and sutured into a new location and it is performed mainly on greater weight loss patients with excess/loose skin in the upper abdomen
- High-Definition abdominoplasty: The removal of excess skin is coupled with tightening of the abdominal muscles and specialized High Tension Sutures thus revealing a more elegant body. In this case, the incision is made low enough in the abdomen that it is completely hidden by the underwear or swimsuit. It is the best choice for women and men for not only a flat but also well-shaped abdomen with an “athletic” look
Liposuction of the flanks, if necessary, further contributes to the definition of the waistline.
What to expect after surgery:
- In the first 3-4 post-operative days, the pain is usually minimal and easily controlled with painkillers.
- An elastic compression garment is applied to treated areas and is required for a few days post-operatively.
- Strenuous exercise and activities are restricted for about 4 weeks.
- It may take a few months to fully see the outstanding results of your surgery; however the first results are noticeable right after the procedure.
Risks and Side Effects
There are no serious complications following abdominoplasty. Having hypertrophic scars, seroma or wound dehiscence are possible side effects that may lead to delayed healing or to revision surgery.
Useful Information
- It is recommended to have a tummy tuck 6 months after giving birth, since your body still needs time to heal and regain its contour following pregnancy.
- Stretch marks located under the belly button will be removed.
- Stretch marks above will remain as they cannot be removed, but will improve in appearance.
- Sun exposure and a strict diet before surgery should be avoided because it delays the healing process.
- Smoking should be avoided for about 1-2 weeks before surgery and for about 2 weeks postoperatively.
- Within only a few months following surgery, patients who do not gain or significantly lose weight will experience the longest and best possible results.
- During pregnancy, the skin stretches and tightens. The abdominal muscles running vertically and parallel in direction separate from the midline due to pressure, leading to the creation of a hernia.
