Abdominoplasty Surgery

Abdominoplasty surgery or "tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgical procedure that is performed by a plastic surgeon to thin the abdominal region and to make it more firm Abdominoplasty operations vary in scope and are frequently subdivided into various categories. Depending on the extent of the surgery, it can be a complete abdominoplasty (takes 1 to 5 hours) or a partial abdominoplasty can be completed between 1 to 2 hours. Abdominoplasty carries certain risks and while making the decision to undergo such a procedure it is recommended to compare the benefits with the potential risks and complications with the treating clinician. The majority of the risks can be avoided if the patients follow carefully the instructions they receive from their surgeon. Stopping nicotine use and smoking several weeks before and several weeks after surgery cleans the body and improves the chance of an uneventful recovery.

Steps taken:

There are two approaches; complete abdominoplasty and partial procedure. These are also known as Tummy Tuck Surgeries. In a Complete abdominoplasty the surgeon will cut the abdomen from hipbone to hipbone and then contour the skin, tissue, and muscle as needed. The surgery will involve moving belly button with drainage tubes under the skin for few days.

In Partial or mini abdominoplasty are for patients with fat deposits under the navel which will be removed. The surgery can take one to five hours and patient will need to be hospitalised for at least 3-4 days till the incisions are on way to healed. Days following the surgery, there is pain and swelling for which pain relieving medication shall be prescribed. Patient may also experience numbness, bruising, and tiredness during that time. As with any surgery, there is risk of infection, bleeding and blood clots at the incisions sites. Patients with circulatory diseases, diabetes, or heart, lung, or liver disease are prone for complications and need to be monitored. Patients with insufficient or poor healing may require repeat surgery. There surgeries are not scar-free and though they fade with time they do not disappear completely.

Advantages:

The surgery involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen in order to tighten the muscle and fascia of the abdominal wall. This type of surgery is usually sought by patients with loose or sagging tissues after pregnancy or major weight loss.

Precautions:

Abdominoplasty needs suturing and stitching which needs a bandaged. Proper bandaging is essential for good healing. Wrong posture can loosen the bandage and will lead to improper healing. Patient must follow the instructions for the best position while sitting or lying down to help ease pain and aid proper healing. Patients must refrain from doing any strenuous activity for at least six weeks following the surgery. Diet control must be followed as directed by the physician. Exercise regime is necessary to maintain body weight; however it can start only after complete recovery following doctor’s instructions.

FAQs

What type of patients need abdominoplasty?

Both male and female patients with significant weight fluctuations, central/ abdominal obesity, genetic predisposition for central obesity and those with a hereditary tendency will benefit by abdominoplasty.

What kind of pain can be expected following surgery?

For most patients, the pain, may last a few days, and is usually well-controlled with pain relieving medications.

How soon can patient return to work after an abdominoplasty?

Typically, individuals are able to return to work after about two weeks. The exact amount of time will depend on the extent of the abdominoplasty, pain tolerance and the physical demands of work.

Who Are the Best Candidates For a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck is suitable for men and women who are in good health. Women who have had several pregnancies may find the procedure useful for tightening their abdominal muscles and reducing skin.

Will abdominoplasty affect by chances to get pregnant in future?

No; the procedure has no effect on the reproduction system of a woman.