A flat abdomen is important
to a physically fit appearance. If you are concerned by the
appearance of your tummy, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) may be
a good choice for you. Abdominoplasty is designed to give you
a firm and smooth abdomen. The cosmetic procedure removes excess
skin and fat from the abdomen and may also tighten the muscles
of the abdominal wall. The result is a flatter, tighter abdominal
profile.
Abdominoplasty is best suited
to women and men who have loose abdominal skin.
You may be a good candidate for abdominoplasty if you have:
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Excess or loose, sagging abdominal skin
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An abdomen that protrudes and is out of proportion to
the rest of your body
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Abdominal muscles that have weakened by pregnancy or
aging
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Excess fat that is concentrated beneath the abdominal
skin
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Abdominal wall defect or hernia
Scars from previous
abdominal surgery may limit the results of abdominoplasty.
How is abdominoplasty performed ?
Abdominoplasty is performed in the hospital under general or spinal anaesthesia. At the onset liposuction is done to the upper abdomen & flanks to reduce unwanted bulges in these areas. Following this a horizontal incision is placed just within or above the pubic area. The length of the incision depends largely on the amount of skin to be removed. Working through this incision, the underlying muscles are tightened. Any excess skin from the lower abdomen is trimmed away. Skin that contains stretch marks may be removed as well; however, it may not be possible to remove them all. Although the navel's position remains unchanged, its appearance may be improved.
When the surgery is complete, you will be given a dressing over
your abdomen along with an abdominal support garment (if necessary).
Small drain tubes may be inserted under your skin to prevent
fluid accumulation. Any discomfort will be controlled by medication.
Traditional abdominoplasty may not be the best choice for everyone.
You will be advised if other options will work better to meet
your goals.
"Mini-abdominoplasty" - This is ideal if the problem is primarily below the navel.
Liposuction alone - This is ideal if you have good skin elasticity and muscle
tone.
Post-operative recovery
You will be encouraged to get out of
bed and walk around from the very next day after surgery to promote blood circulation. In this early phase of healing,
straining, bending and lifting should be avoided. You will be
instructed to sleep on your back with your knees and hips bent.
Although everyone heals at different rate, your recovery is
generally as follows:
The dressing will be removed within few days. You will notice
swelling and bruising which is expected. Both will subside after
a few weeks. Drain tubes come out after a few days. Stitches
will generally be removed by the tenth day after surgery.
The pressure garment must be worn as instructed for at least
4 to 6 weeks after surgery. You may return to work in a few
days and resume most of your normal activities within a week
or two. It is important to treat your healing skin with extra
care - i.e. avoiding sun exposure
Results of abdominoplasty
You will see noticeable
difference in the shape of your body soon after surgery. A firmer,
flatter abdomen boosts the confidence and makes you feel more
comfortable in trendier clothing. Although the scar fades with
time, it will be there permanently . Abdominoplasty produces
long-lasting results. Unless you gain or lose a significant
weight you can expect to retain your shape for years.
Possible risks and complications
You may have a detailed
discussion about this during your personal consultation. Some
of the possible complications include - anaesthesia related
complications, fluid accumulation, hematoma, infection, delayed
skin healing, contour irregularity etc.