Abdominomplasty, ordinarily known as a ‘tummy tuck’ is a major surgical process concerning the removal of excess skin and fat from the middle and lower intestinal region with the aim of tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall. It can noticeably cut back the protrusion of the abdomen.
Who needs an abdominoplasty?
Men and women, who are otherwise in good condition, but have a sticking out stomach due to fat deposit or loose skin which has not improved even with exercise, might be applicants for abdominoplasty. It is very favored among girls, who, due to multiple pregnancies have lost the tightness of their tummies beyond the point at which diet control and exercise can restore it and plastic surgery after weight loss.
Risks of Abdominoplasty
when performed by a certified surgeon, trained for the job, Abdominoplasty is quite successful. However, as with all surgical procedures, this one too, has its own hazards and complications which must be clearly understood before going in for surgery.
Blood clots and infection, though rare, can occur after the operation. This, though treatable, will extend the patient’s stay at the hospital. Sometimes, there is poor healing, resulting In such cases, a 2nd operation could be required. Smoking can also increase complications.
Planning and preparation for surgery
First, your surgeon will make an assessment of the extent of the fat deposits in your intestinal area. He can also assess your skin tone. He’ll suggest either partial abdominoplasty or complete abdominoplasty, depending on the area that is covered in fat deposits. If they are restricted to the area below the navel, he may suggest and partial abdominoplasty. Or he may advocate a combination of abdominoplasty ( partial or complete) along with liposuction, for a better body contour.
You will be given specific guidelines with regard to diet, drinking, smoking and medicines before the surgery. If you develop an infection or cold, your surgery will likely be postponed. Complete abdominoplasty often takes about 2-5 hours while partial abdominoplasty may take 1-2 hours.
In a total abdominoplasty a long incision will be made of one hipbone to the other, just above the pubic area. Another incision will also be made to free the navel area from the intestinal tissue. Partial abdominoplasty requires a much shorter incision, and the second incision won’t be required at all.
Then the surgeon will lift your skin to reveal the vertical muscles in the abdomen. These are pulled together and stitched in the new position. The extra skin is then removed. Your navel is then stitched into the new hole which has been cut for it. Ultimately , the skin is stitched up fully and dressings applied.
Recovery Depending on your physical condition at the point of surgery, you may either be back at work in as little as 2 weeks, or up to 4 weeks if you weren’t in such great shape physically. Exercise helps to reduce swelling and induces faster recovery.
