A flat and well toned abdomen is something many of us aim for through exercise or weight control. Even individuals of otherwise normal body weight & proportion can develop an abdomen that protrudes, is loose or sagging.
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What is Tummy Tuck?
Tummy Tuck surgically removes excess skin and fat and in some cases restores weakened or separated abdominal muscles. This creates an abdominal profile that is flatter & firmer thereby enhancing body image & self-confidence.
Am I a candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
One or all of the following conditions can be surgically improved with a Tummy Tuck:
- Excess localized fat in the abdominal area
- Loose and sagging skin in the abdominal region
- Weakened and separated abdominal muscles or abdominal hernia due to pregnancy, weight loss, aging or previous surgery
How is Tummy Tuck performed?
Liposuction is performed first to remove excess fat from the entire abdominal region and flanks. Then in the same sitting, sagging or overhanging skin and tissues are removed through skin excision. This procedure is also known as Lipo-abdominoplasty.
What is the period of hospitalization?
A 3-4 day stay at the centre is all that is usually required.
What should I expect postoperatively?
You are usually able to walk after abdominoplasty surgery and you will be encouraged to do so. You should take a short walk three or four times a day for a few minutes each time. You will most likely not be able to stand completely straight and you may be a bit hunched over for several days. The skin of your abdomen may feel tight. You may be instructed to remain bent over a bit for the first 4 to 5 days after surgery. This posture might cause some back spasms and discomfort, so ask your surgeon about muscle relaxants.
If drains have been inserted, they are usually removed 4 days to 2 weeks after tummy tuck surgery. You should take it easy for at least 2 weeks after surgery. Take it easy, but walk a bit every few hours every day. You will be told to wear an abdominal pressure garment for several weeks after your surgery to hold everything in place while you heal. This is a girdle or a band that fits around your abdomen and holds everything in place during healing.
Some swelling and bruising are normal, but the amount varies from person to person.
Where are the scars located in an abdominoplasty?
This is not a scar-free surgery. In fact, scars may be quite severe depending on the amount of skin needed to be removed, your body's ability to heal, whether you scar well, the skill of your surgeon, and the technique used. Most surgeons try to use techniques that leave a scar that can be covered by a standard bikini
When can I return to work?
Many patients can return to work after 2 weeks after tummy tuck surgery, but this depends on how extensive your surgery is and what you do for a living. In some cases, you may need to be off work 4 or more weeks