The abdominoplasty procedure, or otherwise known as a tummy tuck, is a procedure that reshapes the stomach and abdomen area to give a flatter, smoother profile. It is ideal for removing excess skin after pregnancy or weight loss, tightening stretched abdominal muscles or correcting any “tummy bulges” that are resistant to diet or exercise.
Whatever the reason, in the hands of a skilled Abdominoplasty plastic surgeon, most of these imperfections can be improved.
Incisions are made which are positioned to allow the removal of surplus skin and fat deposits to achieve a tighter, flatter stomach area.
This cosmetic surgery procedure takes between 2-3 hours in theatre and can be combined with contouring liposculpture if required.
This diagram shows the surgeon’s incisions, which will remove the excess skin and fat.
After the operation, the scars will be in the positions shown and will fade with time. The stomach will, of course, be significantly flatter immediately after surgery.
Diet and exercise are the best means of removing unwanted fat. However, an abdominoplasty can be a solution to eliminating unwanted, unsightly excess skin that is caused by weight loss and tightening a “tummy bulge” that is resistant to exercise.
Yes. An incision is generally made from one hip to the other along the bikini line, which could later be camouflaged by underwear. The scar for an abdominoplasty is usually placed across the lower abdomen. It can stretch from one side to the other depending on the size of the stomach. All surgery results in some sort of scar and all scars take time to soften and fade. You will not see the final appearance of your scar for up to a year after surgery.
For the first day or two after an abdominoplasty most doctors recommend that you have as much rest as possible. Some patients feel that applying vitamin E or aloe vera to the scar may help. If you apply these creams do not rub the scar for about six weeks because you can damage the fragile new tissue. If you have tapes or stitches in place, do not use any cream or lotion unless instructed.
You should also wear the appropriate post-surgical compression garment, which will aid healing. The specialist 3-panel abdominal binder is available in our online shop with 10% saving, or can be purchased at Dolan Park Hospital, where your surgery will take place or at selected clinics.
The three panels of the binder apply the correct pressure to the abdominal region, which aids final result . This stops fluid from building up, it prevents swelling and reduces bleeding. The binder is fastened with Velcro to allow easy adjustment of binder. Tummy Tuck Patients need to wear this binder for 6 weeks. Larger abdominoplasty procedures may have to wear a binder AND a girdle. You will be discharged in one of these post surgery, however due to the length of time the garment needs to be worn patients often feel that is better to replace the garment.
Yes, there are now many men that are also taking advantage of abdominoplasty for treating a large stomach.
At your consultation you will be able to discuss the procedure in detail and ask any questions you may have.
