Tummy Tuck Abdominoplasty
Tummy Tuck Abdominoplasty
Tummy Tuck Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure to remove excess wrinkled skin and fatty tissue from the middle and lower portions of the abdomen. It can tighten stretched skin, strengthen abdominal muscles and flatten the lower abdomen.
A consultation with a plastic surgeon is the first step an individual should take if considering abdominoplasty. The patient should discuss candidly his or her expectations about looking and feeling better after surgery, while keeping in mind that the desired result is improvement, not perfection.
After examining you, we will discuss the variables that influence the decisions involved in the procedure, such as your age, skin tone and body build. Patients who are of relatively normal weight but have weak abdominal muscles and excess skin and fat are the best candidates.
Abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight reduction, nor is it meant to treat minor skin wrinkling or looseness. Frequently, however, diet and exercise alone cannot correct certain conditions, particularly when underlying muscles as well as skin are stretched as often occurs after multiple pregnancies. Loss of skin elasticity which frequently occurs with slight obesity in older patients is another condition that can be improved. When extreme weight loss results in large hanging abdominal folds, a more extensive procedure, referred to as a panniculectomy is performed.
During the initial visit, we will explain specific details of your case, including the surgical technique to be used, the anesthesia, where the operation will be performed and what the surgery realistically can accomplish. Additional factors to be considered before electing abdominoplasty, such as risk and cost, should be discussed with the surgeon at this time.
Thousands of abdominoplasties are performed successfully each year. Nevertheless, you should be aware of the potential risks of surgery and specific complications associated with this operation. Postoperative complications such as infection and blood clots are rare. Poor healing, resulting in conspicuous scars, may necessitate a second operation. Heavy smokers should be aware that nicotine can delay healing. Risk of complications can be minimized by closely adhering to our advice on follow-up care.
Abdominoplasty typically is performed to remove excess abdominal skin and tighten underlying musculature. {Fig. 1) The extent of the procedure depends on what changes are desired and what we deem appropriate. Abdominoplasty is performed in a hospital under general anesthesia.
There are several possible approaches to abdominoplasty. The most frequently employed technique is a transverse incision across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. A second incision is made to free the umbilicus from surrounding skin so it will remain undisturbed. {Fig. 2) Skin is separated from the abdominal wall and elevated above the rib cage. {Fig. 3) Then loose tissues covering the abdomen’s large vertical muscle is pulled towards the center of the abdomen and is sutured together. This tightens muscles, provides a firmer abdominal wall and narrows the waistline. {Fig. 4) The elevated skin is lowered and the excess removed.
After surgery, there is soreness and discomfort which is easily controlled by medication.
The patient will remain in the hospital for one to two days with hips bent to reduce tension on the abdominal area. The dressing is replaced by an appropriate abdominal supporter before the patient is discharged. He or she is advised to continue wearing a light support garment for two to three weeks.
The elimination of sagging superfluous skin and excess fatty tissue results in a firmer, flatter abdominal appearance and a narrower waistline. Although we make every effort to minimize scarring, abdominoplasty scars are permanent. However, within three to six months scars will flatten, lighten in color and show considerable improvement. (Fig. 7)
Although you may be up and about in a day or two after surgery, we will advise you on the proper schedule for resuming your usual routine. To permit proper healing, you should avoid overactivity and straining for three to four weeks. The decision on when to return to work and normal activities depends on how fast you heal and how you feel.