Abdominoplasty is the surgical term for abdominal surgery. It consists of removing excess skin and abdominal fat and correcting muscle flaccidity.
The belly muscles can also be tightened in the same operation if necessary.
This excess tissue is often the result of maternity, or significant weight loss, which causes all abdominal structures to stretch or fall. In many cases, both abdominoplasty and liposuction are recommended for best results.
Abdominoplasty Technique
There is more than one possible procedure, in each case it is necessary to identify the type of problem and thus choose the best technique to correct the imperfection. The type of scars will depend on the anatomical condition of the patient and the need to correct the structures of the abdominal wall.
- When there is an excessive amount of body fat along with elastic skin and correct abdominal muscles, the imperfection is resolved with basic liposuction, scars are barely visible.
- If together with an excessive amount of fat we also find loose skin we will have to remove a certain amount of skin to achieve a flat abdomen. In this case, the scar that remains will be above the pubic area and would be similar to a caesarean section.
- If the abdominal muscles are also loose, then they must be tightened and reshaped to achieve an optimal effect. In this case, the scar is larger.
What do I have to do before the operation?
- Complete blood test.
- ECG
- Chest x-ray.
Post-operation
The first week after the operation it is necessary for the patient to have absolute rest. During the second week partial rest is required. From the third to the sixth week you will gradually begin to incorporate normal activities avoiding excessive activities and efforts. During this time, some type of compression garment (such as a girdle) is essential to achieve proper results.
Treatment Information
Anesthesia: General or regional
Place of the procedure: Hospital.
Surgery time: between 3 and 5 hours.
Duration of hospital stay: 1 day.
Abdominoplasty Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of abdominoplasty?
Because an abdominoplasty removes fat and sagging skin, the procedure can produce a flatter, firmer abdomen and a thinner waist. This is one of the most popular plastic surgical procedures. Most patients are satisfied with the results of a tummy tuck and report that their confidence has increased due to the good looks they look.
Am I a candidate for abdominoplasty?
Candidates for abdominoplasty are healthy men and women with realistic expectations about this procedure. The abdominoplasty patient will be within his or her weight but wants to get rid of sagging or excess fat skin.
How long does abdominoplasty surgery take?
Typically, a tummy tuck will take two to four hours. However, the exact time of the abdominoplasty procedure will depend on the type of operation performed. A mini abdominoplasty or partial abdominoplasty will require less time than a normal abdominoplasty.
Is anesthesia used for this procedure?
Yes, the surgeon will provide the patient with information regarding anesthesia prior to their procedure.
Is there any risk or complication for an abdominoplasty?
Abdominal plastic surgery, like any operation, has generally associated risks that can be reduced with due care can have the risk of blood clots, infection, risk of anesthesia etc ...
How long will the recovery period last after surgery?
During the recovery period, you will feel some temporary discomfort and pain, but with the proper medications that your doctor will provide, it decreases. If you stay home and rest, you will feel better in a few days. It will take 1 to 2 weeks to remove the stitches.
Will I have scars with abdominoplasty?
Scarring is inevitable. The abdominoplasty procedure will produce a permanent scar at the incision site, just above your pubic bone. The size of the scar will depend on the procedure chosen.
How long will I have to wait to see the final results?
During the first few months, you will sometimes feel bloated or uncomfortable, and this feeling will disappear over time. In this period, your stomach will look flat and smooth. After the lymphatic drainage sessions, you will achieve the permanent result. You will not see the final result until six months after surgery.
Could you have children in the future?
Yes, definitely
