Tummy tuck, known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure in which excessive fat deposits are being drained to some degree and excess skin being removed to achieve flatter and firmer abdomen and resolve deformities for improved aesthetic. Abdominoplasty can be categorized into two, which is mini-abdominoplasty and full and they differ by the amount of excess skin collected and length of incision.
This procedure is not assumed to be ideal for those planning to lose weight, as loss of weight result in the body producing more excessive skin gradually. Therefor it may be considered an ideal procedure for patients who had post-bariatric surgery done before and those who lost substantial amount of weight already and dealing with post-pregnancy challenges. Or you may inquire for temporary solutions for weight loss to support your exercise and diet before any scheduled abdominoplasty and consult with our general surgeon at Mono.
Abdominoplasty takes min 2 hours up to 5 whereas mini-abdominoplasty takes for about 1,5 or 2 hours only.
Procedure
Once excessive skin is removed and abdominal skin is lifted, the abdominal underlying muscles are also repaired, which is great news for patients with childbirth history and those with bariatric surgery history. As muscle repair is considered an integral part of a flat and firm abdomen during the procedure, the upper abdominal skin is pulled down, excess part is removed and the remaining is sutured after fixing the muscles. Your stomach will for sure eventually get firmer and flatter. All you need to do is to adhere to your nutrition plan and do constant physical exercise.
Since this procedure requires adequate blood supply we strongly recommend patients to stop smoking before the scheduled procedure date.
Recovery
On the first day of procedure, moderate swelling and severe pain is normal. However the pain that is controllable by strong painkillers and is temporary. Drainage tubes are being placed for 1 to 2 days and stitches are being removed within 1 to 3 weeks. You may stay overnight at the hospital for 1 or 2 nights under physician supervision.
You may go back to your daily routine within 2 to 4 weeks, however that may take relatively longer or less depending on your job, lifestyle and etc. For the scars to completely fade away, you might have to wait from 3 up to 6 months.
Briefly as long as you properly follow our surgeon’s instructions, you will complete healing as quick and easy as possible.
Quick Facts
- Surgery duration: 1-3 hours
- Total stay: 6-7 days
- Anaesthesia: General anaesthetic
- Recovery time: Up to 3-4 weeks
- Exercise: After 3-4 weeks
- Scars: Yes