Abdominoplasty is an operation that can be performed for both men and women. It involves removing the excess abdominal skin and fat, and usually repositioning the umbilicus (belly button) to a more aesthetic position.
Abdominoplasty
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Is this surgery right for me?
Most people who are interested in this operation have either lost a significant amount of weight, have some loose skin from pregnancy, or have excess body fat that they can’t lose with exercise alone.
Some women may have a divarication, or separation, of their abdominal muscles. This is common after pregnancy. At the same time as an abdominoplasty, your muscles may be able to be tightened to bring them back together and also try to improve the shape and tone of your belly. Some people who have urinary issues have reported that abdominoplasty helps their bladder control.
Some people, usually those who have lost large amounts of weight, may opt for more than an abdominoplasty alone, such as an extended abdominoplasty or a body lift. At Tailored Plastic Surgery we are able to help guide you throughout your consultations, procedure and recovery.
What does the procedure
journey look like?
To begin your journey at Tailored Plastic Surgery, you will typically have an initial consultation to discuss your goals and see how we can help you. After a second consultation and a cooling-off period of one week, if you wish to proceed, we will schedule the surgery on a date that suits you. We will discuss the steps you need to take in the lead-up to your surgery, and also on the day of your procedure.
We will discuss the steps you need to take in the lead up to your surgery, and also on the day of your procedure. Initially, you may experience some discomfort in the abdomen and flanks, in particular if you have had extensive liposuction. You will be wearing a post-operative binder and have instructions for medications to take at home, and exercises to perform. You should be able to go home within three days. You should be able to return to work within two to three weeks depending on what your regular occupation is. We advise against strenuous physical activity and exercise within the first six weeks.
Procedure Risks
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the abdominal muscles. In addition to general surgery risks, potential risks and complications associated with abdominoplasty may include:
Seroma or Hematoma:
Collection of fluid (seroma) or blood (hematoma) under the skin may occur after abdominoplasty. Draining these collections may be necessary for proper healing.
Numbness or Sensation Changes:
Nerve injury during the procedure can lead to temporary or permanent changes in skin sensation, such as numbness or altered sensitivity, in the treated areas.
Wound Healing Issues:
Abdominoplasty involves extensive incisions, and there is a risk of delayed wound healing, wound separation, or infection. Proper wound care and follow-up visits are necessary for optimal healing.
Scarring:
Abdominoplasty incisions result in noticeable scars, typically located along the lower abdomen. The appearance of scars can vary depending on individual healing processes and proper scar management techniques.
Still unsure? Here are some FAQs..
What scars will I have?
There are scars along the bottom of the abdomen and usually around the belly-button, or umbilicus, although we aim to make these as discreet as possible. Liposuction helps to remove fat from the areas that an abdominoplasty can’t address, and help with shaping your tummy.
Will I have drains in my abdomen?
Most commonly, there will be one drain used for each side of the abdominoplasty, and potentially a third drain. They typically begin to be removed on the second day after the operation, although this decision will be made depending on how much volume there is in the drain bottle. You may be able to go home with a drain in, and this can be removed at Tailored Plastic Surgery during your first post-operative follow-up outside hospital.
Can I have an abdominoplasty at the same time as a mastopexy (breast lift)?
Mastopexy is an operation that aims to lift your breast and nipple higher than they are sitting currently. Breast lift is an operation which may be performed alone or together with breast augmentation. This operation is designed to regain the youthful appearing breast or perky breast.
Can I have an abdominoplasty at the same time as liposuction?
Abdominoplasty can be performed alone or with liposuction. The abdominoplasty is able to remove skin and fat from certain areas of the abdomen. Liposuction may help with contouring of your belly or flanks.