A tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgical procedure performed to improve the appearance of the abdomen. During the tummy tuck procedure, also known as abdominoplasty, excess skin and fat in the abdominal area is removed. The connective tissue (fascia) in the abdomen is also usually tightened with stitches. The remaining skin is then repositioned to achieve a more toned appearance. If you have excess fat or skin around your belly button or a weak lower abdominal wall, you may choose to have a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck can also improve your body image.
Why Should We Have Liposuction?
There may be several reasons why you have excess fat on your belly, poor elasticity of the skin, or weakened connective tissue. These include:
- Significant changes in weight
- Pregnancy
- Abdominal surgery, such as C-section
- Aging
- Your natural body type
A tummy tuck can remove loose, excess skin and fat and tighten weak fascia. A tummy tuck can also remove stretch marks and excess skin in the lower abdomen below the belly button. However, a tummy tuck will not correct stretch marks outside this area. If you have had a previous cesarean section, your plastic surgeon may incorporate your existing cesarean scar into your tummy tuck scar. It can also be done in conjunction with other body contouring cosmetic procedures, such as a tummy tuck or breast surgery. If you have had fat removed from your belly (liposuction), you may decide to have a tummy tuck because liposuction removes tissue and fat just beneath the skin but does not remove excess skin.
Conclusion
A tummy tuck can give your belly a firmer, slimmer appearance by removing excess skin and fat and strengthening your abdominal wall. If you keep your weight stable, tummy tuck results usually last a long time.
After Surgery
After tummy tuck surgery, your abdominal incision and belly button will likely be covered with a surgical dressing. Small tubes may be placed along the incision site to drain excess blood or fluid. You will likely experience moderate pain that will be controlled with pain medications. It is normal to have swelling in the surgery area. After surgery, drains may be left in place for a few days. Your doctor will show you how to empty and maintain your drains. You may need to continue taking antibiotics as long as the drains are in place. Your surgeon may also prescribe a blood-thinning medication for a short time after your tummy tuck surgery. You will wear a supportive abdominal garment (abdominal wrap) for approximately six weeks after your tummy tuck surgery. This helps prevent fluid buildup and provides abdominal support while it heals. Your doctor will explain how to care for the scar. You need to be careful when moving around for the first six weeks after abdominoplasty. You also need to avoid positions that strain your incision line (such as bending over quickly from the waist) to prevent the wound from reopening.
| Action: | Abdominoplasty |
|---|---|
| Duration: | 2-4 Hours |
| Anesthesia: | General Anesthesia |
| Hospital: | European Approved Hospitals |
| Healing Time: | 1-2 Months |
| Expected Result: | Improvement in the appearance of the face and neck area. Tighter, younger looking skin. |