Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty or “tummy tuck” is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to make the abdomen thinner and more firm. The surgery involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen in order to tighten the muscle and fascia of the abdominal wall. This type of surgery is usually sought by patients with loose or sagging tissues after pregnancy or major weight loss.

There are two types of tummy tuck. The one you have will depend on how much skin and fat you have removed. Your surgeon will explain which type is most suitable for you.

• Full abdominoplasty – required when patient has excessive fat deposit plus a drop in the underlying muscle and skin layer.
• Modified (mini) abdominoplasty – required when patient has good muscle tone, but there is too much skin and the stomach appears crinkly.

Before the liposuction procedure was invented, an abdominoplasty was the only procedure carried out to remove excess fat. Depending on the amount of excess skin and fat you have, liposuction or BodyTite may be a more suitable, minimally invasive option for you. You may find that the results of liposuction are sufficient for your desired results. Our Doctors will always offer you the most suitable option for you and your body.

The procedure

Depending on how much fat and skin require removing, and the type of abdominoplasty being carried out, the operation may take up to three hours under general anaesthetic.

The procedure starts with an incision across the base of the abdomen, from hip to hip, that generally follows the pubic lining (bikini line for women). Incisions for a mini tummy tuck can be significantly smaller. Your surgeon may also make a second cut to remove your belly button from the surrounding skin.

The stretched or torn muscles will then be pulled together and stitched in place. Excess fat will also be removed, pulled down, and stitched into place. Once all your excess skin is removed, your belly button is then re-positioned correctly.

Once the skin and fat removal is completed, all incisions are stitched and your lower abdomen is strapped with bandages.

Tummy tuck downtime

It takes about three weeks to get to about 60% activity level. By 6 weeks you will be permitted to engage in full physical activities although you will not be doing everything that you are permitted to do. It will take about 3 months before the healing is about 75% done and another 3 months to get to the 90% level.

Contact us

We will gladly take the time to offer you a professional, extensive and realistic consultation. The first consultation at The City Clinic is always free and noncommittal. Contact us now.