Abdominoplasty
- Dr. Simmi Singh
- Nov 20, 2019
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 5, 2020
Tummy Tuck
Interest in plastic surgery is at an all-time high. The advent of social media has resulted in people being more conscious of their bodies and appearance. In this new age of digital media, people also have access to unlimited resources on how they can improve their appearances through plastic surgery. Unfortunately as important as it is for patients to research procedures and options available to them, it is just as important that they consult with professional board certified plastic surgeons with credible experience specific to the procedure they are interested in. It's unlikely that you would leave your healthcare during a pregnancy solely up to a dermatologist so why would you consult with anyone other than a plastic surgeon when considering plastic/reconstructive, cosmetic/aesthetic surgery?
One of the more popular procedures that everyone refers to as the tummy tuck is Abdominoplasty. This procedure aims to flatten the tummy by removing extra fat and skin and tightening the muscles in your abdominal wall thereby creating a more contoured and defined shape of the lower abdomen. Please be aware that it is not the same as liposuction although this may be done in conjunction with a tummy tuck.
Who are good candidates?
Healthy men and women at a stable weight with realistic expectations
Non-smokers
Women who have had several pregnancies may find the procedure useful for tightening their abdominal muscles and reducing skin laxity
A tummy tuck is also an option for men or women who were once obese and still have excess fat deposits or loose skin around the belly
Who are poor candidates?
Individuals who are planning substantial weight loss should wait until their weight loss is stabilised
Women who may be considering future pregnancies should postpone surgery to maintain a good result
Fulfilling someone else's desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image
What are the complications
Any surgery performed may be at risk for complications; however, steps are undertaken to minimise these complications. If they do occur, it is rare. Smoking increases the risk of complications.
Length of surgery Approximately two to four hours.
Anesthesia
Most commonly patients are placed under general anesthesia. This procedure can also be performed with a regional nerve block obtained with local anesthetic agents.
Inpatient/Outpatient Either is possible and depends on the patient’s health and the doctor’s preference.Possible Side Effects Temporary discomfort, low back pain, post-operative swelling, soreness or tenderness in the surrounding areas, numbness of abdominal skin and bruising are possible side effects.
Risks Infection, bleeding under the skin flap or at the incision site, pulmonary embolism (a blood clot that travels to the lung), scarring (keloids), delayed healing, or the need for a second reversionary operation are potential risks, enlargement of the scar.
Recovery The patient may return to work within two to four weeks. Upon re-evaluation by the physician, the patient may return to activity that is more strenuous after approximately four to six weeks. Scars should fade and flatten anywhere from three months to one year after surgery. Patients are asked to wear a body girdle for at least four weeks.
Results The result will last many years, unless the patient gains weight or becomes pregnant.
Tummy Tuck - Incision Front Abdomen
Tummy Tuck - Incision Front Abdomen Sutures
Tummy Tuck - Side Before and After
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