Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen. This procedure can very positively change the appearance of a “sagging belly”. However, abdominoplasty creates a permanent scar that can extend from one side to the other, depending on the extent of the original problem as well as the extent of the surgery.
The most suitable candidate for abdominoplasty is a woman or man who has a relatively good figure, but is unhappy with the amount of fat and loose abdominal skin, and diet and exercise are not working. Abdominoplasty surgery also partially resolves flattened rectus abdominis muscles or stretched skin in women after pregnancy. It is also possible to correct the loss of skin elasticity in elderly patients who struggle with mild overweight.
A patient who intends to radically reduce his weight should postpone surgery. Also, women who are planning a pregnancy in the future should wait. Vertical muscles that firm up during surgery may become stretched during pregnancy. If you have scars from previous abdominal surgery, these scars may become unusually prominent after surgery.
After the initial consultation, the plastic surgeon will evaluate your health, determine the amount of fat in the abdominal area, and thoroughly assess the condition of your skin. It is advisable for the patient to talk openly with the surgeon about expectations. It will also explain your alternatives and the limitations and risks involved.
After the procedure, it may take weeks or months to feel like you did before. If the abdominoplasty is performed in good physical condition with firm abdominal muscles, the recovery after abdominoplasty will be all the faster. Some patients return to work after two weeks, others take 3 to 4 weeks.
Exercise will help you to heal better. Even patients who have never exercised before and start exercise to reduce swelling will reduce the risk of blood clots and improve muscle tone. However, excessive exercise should be avoided until you feel comfortable.
The scars may be visible or worsen during the first 3 to 6 months while they are still maturing, but this is normal. Expect nine months to a year until the scars become flat and fade. Even if the scar never completely disappears, the scar will be hidden under under underwear or swimwear.
Like any surgery, abdominoplasty is associated with risks and possible complications that may accompany the procedure.
Postoperative complications such as infection and blood clots are rare, but a certain percentage of them do occur. An infection can prolong your stay in a healthcare facility. You can reduce the risk of blood clots by moving as soon as possible after surgery. Any incomplete healing of the scar may require further surgery.
WARNING: The procedure is not possible 3 days before menstruation, during menstruation and 3 days after menstruation.
At the FRAIS Institute of Health and Beauty we offer the possibility to pay for plastic surgery procedures in instalments. Contact us for more info.
