If you're considering abdominoplasty...
Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a "tummy tuck," is a major surgical procedure to remove excess
skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. The procedure can dramatically
reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen. But bear in mind, it does produce a permanent scar, which, depending on the
extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it, can extend from hip to hip.
If you're considering abdominoplasty, this will give you a basic understanding of the procedure-when
it can help, how it's performed, and what results you can expect. It can't answer all of your questions, since a lot depends
on the individual patient and the surgeon. Please ask your consultant or surgeon about anything you don't understand.
THE BEST CANDIDATES FOR ABDOMINOPLASTY
The best candidates for abdominoplasty are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered
by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that won't respond to diet or exercise. The surgery is particularly helpful
to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can
return to normal. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved.
If your fat deposits are limited to the area below the navel, you may require a less complex procedure
called a partial abdominoplasty, also know as a mini-tummy tuck, which can often be performed on an outpatient basis. You
may, on the other hand, benefit more from partial or complete abdominoplasty done in conjunction with liposuction to remove
fat deposits from the hips, for a better body contour. Or maybe liposuction alone would create the best result.
In any case, your consultant should work with you to recommend the procedure that is right for
you and will come closest to producing the desired body contour.
PREPARING FOR YOUR SURGERY
Whether your surgery is done on an outpatient or inpatient basis, you should arrange for someone to
drive you home after your surgery, and to help you out for a day or two after you leave, if needed.
TYPES OF ANESTHESIA
Your doctor may select general anesthesia, so you'll sleep through the operation.
Other surgeons use local anesthesia, combined with a sedative to make you drowsy. You'll be awake but
relaxed, and your abdominal region will be insensitive to pain. (However, you may feel some tugging or occasional discomfort.)
AFTER YOUR SURGERY
For the first few days, your abdomen will probably be swollen and you're likely to feel some pain and
discomfort which can be controlled by medication. Depending on the extent of the surgery,
Your doctor will give you instructions for showering and changing your dressings. And though you may
not be able to stand straight at first, you should start walking as soon as possible.
Surface stitches will be removed in five to seven days, and deeper sutures, with ends that protrude
through the skin, will come out in two to three weeks. The dressing on your incision may be replaced by a support garment.
YOUR NEW LOOK
Abdominoplasty, whether partial or complete, produces excellent results for patients with weakened
abdominal muscles or excess skin. And in most cases, the results are long lasting, if you follow a balanced diet and exercise
regularly.
