What is tummy tuck?
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that is performed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. The procedure is usually done to improve the appearance of the abdomen after significant weight loss or pregnancy.
What is involved in the procedure?
Abdominoplasty or tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery to remove the excess skin and fat from the lower part of the abdomen to give a slimmer and firmer appearance. The procedure also involves liposuction to the upper and lower abdomen and tightening of the abdominal muscles that may have lost their tone, both of which are done based on individual patient requirements.
Who are the typical candidates for an abdominoplasty?
- Those who have had massive weight loss and have loose sagging skin.
- Those who have had multiple pregnancies and have loose bulging lower abdomen with stretch marks.
- Those who are generally obese and have a fatty bulging abdomen. What is tummy tuck?
- There is a misconception that it will help you lose weight.
- No. Rather this procedure is performed in individuals who already have lost weight through diet, exercise or weight loss surgery presenting with loose or saggy skin.
- What precautions to be taken before surgery? You should have a stable body weight before you opt for this procedure. It is best to wait for this procedure until you have completed your family because subsequent child birth may affect the results. If you are a smoker, it may compromise healing process. So, it is best to stop smoking at least 2 weeks prior to surgery and 2 months after surgery.
- How is the procedure performed? It is performed under general anaesthesia It usually last for 3 to 4 hours and patient needs to stay overnight in the hospital. It is performed in combination with liposuction also known as lipoabdominoplasty which is more effective, gives better contour and avoids complications such as tissue loss and bleeding. Incision is made across lower abdomen just above the pubic area and beneath the bathing suit line. Another incision is also made around belly button to free it from surrounding skin. Skin envelope is lifted and underlying loose muscles are tightened. Skin is then stretched and excess skin and fat is removed. Navel is then brought out through a new position on the skin although level remains the same. Drains are placed and closure is done.
- Complications Complication rates are fortunately uncommon and overall satisfaction rate is good. Although uncommon following complication might occur. Infection, haematoma, seroma, changes in skin sensation, scarring, bruising.
