Tummy Tuck
Abdominoplasty or "tummy tuck" surgery is an operation designed to rejuvenate the abdominal area.
The operation removes excess tissue from the abdominal area and the type of abdominoplasty needs to be tailored to the individual. Various types of tummy tuck procedures are available and may be combined with liposuction. It may involve lifting the whole abdominal skin, repositioning of the belly button and tightening of the abdominal muscles.
Who is it for?
A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is often performed for patients who have either lost a lot of weight or to remove the excess loose tissue following childbirth.
For patients following significant weight loss other adjunctive procedures may be required. A consultation regarding the risks and limitations of tummy tuck surgery will help you to choose a procedure that will meet with your expectations.
C onsiderations
The tummy tuck or abdominoplasty operation is performed under general anaethesia and the operative time and your length of stay in hospital will be determined by the extent of surgery as discussed at the initial consultation.You will generally experience abdominal discomfort following the surgery and should aim to be off work for at least 2 weeks depending on the type of work you do.
The vast majority of tummy tuck patients are delighted with the procedure although common complaints include numbness, bruising, swelling especially around the scar line and a slight difference between the two sides of the abdomen. Uncommon complications include infection, haematoma, delayed healing/skin necrosis, seroma formation and thickened scar.
You will be followed up regularly in the clinic and you should refrain from any strenuous exercise for at least 6 weeks. The final result following surgery will not be apparent for at least 6 months after the surgery.