Many find that despite their best efforts through diet and exercise, certain areas of the body hold onto stubborn fat and excess skin. This can be particularly true for the abdominal area. If you have found yourself struggling with these issues, desiring a smoother, firmer abdomen that reflects your healthy lifestyle and inner vitality, then a tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, might be for you.
Abdominoplasty enhances the appearance and contour of the abdomen.
It involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdominal area, and in most cases, the restoration of weakened or separated muscles. The procedure can significantly improve the abdominal profile, creating a more toned and sculpted appearance.
Individuals opt for abdominoplasty for a variety of reasons, causing a wish for excess skin removal or muscle tightening:
• Significant weight loss
• Pregnancy
• C-section or other abdominal surgery
• Aging
• Stubborn fat deposits
• Natural body type
During consultation with your plastic surgeon, you will discuss your aesthetic goals, medical history and any concerns you may have regarding doing a tummy tuck. Feel free to ask questions about the surgeon's qualifications, experience, and the specifics of the procedure.
The surgeon will evaluate your abdominal area, taking into account factors such as skin quality, muscle tone, and fat distribution. They may also take photographs for your medical record. Together, you will explore the options available to you and discuss the realistic outcomes of the surgery.
Bear in mind that your surgeon might caution against the procedure if you:
Once you have decided to proceed with the tummy tuck, you will be given a set of instructions to prepare for the surgery. These guidelines are designed to ensure your body is in the best possible condition for the procedure, aiming to minimise risks and promote a smooth recovery. Preparations will typically include the following:
Prior to the procedure, you will be administered anaesthesia to ensure comfort and painlessness throughout the surgery. General anaesthesia is the most commonly used during a tummy tuck. It renders you completely unconscious during the procedure and you will be continuously monitored by an anaesthetist during the whole procedure, ensuring your safety.
The surgery begins with a horizontal incision made between the pubic hairline and the navel. The length and shape of the incision are determined by the amount of excess skin to be removed. In cases where excess skin is also located above the navel, a second incision around the navel may be necessary to remove this excess skin and achieve the desired contour.
Separation or weakening of the abdominal wall is often a result of pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations, creating the need for tightening and repairing the abdominal muscles by suturing them together.
The removal of excess fat and skin is achieved through a combination of techniques including liposuction and skin excision. By combining these techniques, a tummy tuck surgery allows for more precise contouring of the abdomen and flanks, providing a smoother and toned overall appearance.
In many tummy tuck procedures, the removal of excess skin results in the repositioning of the belly button to ensure it aligns naturally with the newly shaped abdomen. This is achieved by creating a new opening through the tightened skin at a location that corresponds with the original position of the belly button. The belly button itself is not moved; rather, it is brought out through the new opening and sutured into place.
The incision is closed with meticulous care to minimise scarring. This typically involves the use of sutures, skin adhesives, tapes or clips. Drainage tubes may also be placed temporarily under the skin to collect any excess blood or fluid that might accumulate post-surgery. These help prevent complications related to fluid accumulation and are usually removed within the first week or two after surgery.
The abdomen will be carefully bandaged and you may be fitted with a compression garment to support the healing tissues and reduce swelling.
The results of a tummy tuck surgery are visible immediately after the procedure, although significant swelling and bruising are normal in the initial stages of recovery. As the healing process progresses, the full effects of the abdominoplasty become more apparent, revealing a firmer, flatter and more contoured abdomen. The improvements made during the surgery are designed to be long-lasting. With a balanced diet, regular exercise and a stable weight, you can expect to maintain the results for many years. Do note that it does not prevent future weight gain or the effects of ageing.
The post-operative phase is an important period to ensure the best possible outcomes. This is what to expect in the time following your surgery:
Recovery from a tummy tuck is a gradual process, requiring patience and careful attention to your body's needs. Immediately post-surgery, you can expect to spend a few hours in a recovery room under close monitoring, as the anaesthesia wears off. You will gradually be able to return to more regular activities, such as light exercise, after approximately six weeks post-op. Swelling and bruising will continue to diminish and you will start to see more of the results of your surgery.
The side-effects are typically temporary and gradually improve as your body recovers, and typically include the following:
• Swelling: One of the most common side-effects, swelling can take several weeks to subside.
• Bruising: Bruising around the treated area is expected but should fade within a few weeks.
• Pain and discomfort: Mild to moderate pain and discomfort can occur, especially during the first few days after the procedure.
• Numbness: Some patients may experience numbness or a change in skin sensation near the incision site. This usually diminishes over time but can persist for several months in some cases.
• Fatigue: Your body is working hard to heal itself, which can lead to feelings of tiredness and fatigue.
Initially, scars may appear red and raised but typically fade and flatten over time, although they may not disappear entirely. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions for caring for your scars, usually including the use of silicone sheets or gels, gentle massage and protection from the sun. Adhering to these guidelines can aid in the healing process and improve the appearance of scars.
As with any surgical procedure, abdominoplasty carries potential risks and complications. Your surgeon will discuss these with you in detail before the surgery. Some of the risks include:
• Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of infection at the incision site. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent or treat any infections.
• Blood clots: Surgery increases the risk of developing blood clots, particularly in the legs, which can be serious if they travel to the lungs.
• Poor wound healing: Some patients may experience delays in wound healing, which can be more common in smokers or individuals with certain medical conditions.
• Seroma: A seroma is a build-up of fluid at the surgery site, which may need to be drained by your surgeon.
• Necrosis: Skin or tissue necrosis can occur, particularly in smokers, requiring additional treatment or surgery to address.
