Abdominoplasty / Tummy Tuck
What is Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of stubborn fat and excess skin in the abdominal area that cannot be eliminated through methods like liposuction, exercise, and diet. It also includes repairing separated abdominal muscles.
Are You Suitable for This Surgery?
This surgery is suitable for patients who do not respond to methods like sports, diet, and non-incisional surgical procedures such as liposuction. It is not a weight loss surgery but aims to remove excess skin and fat tissue while repairing abdominal muscles. Patients with recent pregnancy plans, smokers, or those with predominant visceral fat and a high BMI (>30) are not suitable candidates for this surgery.
Surgical Technique
There are various surgical techniques for abdominoplasty depending on the patient's deformity status and needs. The decision on which technique to use is made after a thorough examination and understanding of the patient's expectations.
Mini Abdominoplasty: This is the most conservative technique where excess skin and fat tissue are localized especially below the belly button, and the belly button position remains unchanged. It is suitable for patients with limited muscle separation in the area above the belly button.
Abdominoplasty: This involves the complete removal of excess skin and fat tissue both above and below the belly button, with muscle separation along the entire abdominal line. The belly button is repositioned, and the incision scar continues horizontally between the two hip bones.
Extended Abdominoplasty: This is similar to full abdominoplasty but is performed in patients where the horizontal incision length extends beyond the pelvic bone protrusions.
FDL Abdominoplasty (fleur de lys abdominoplasty): In patients with excess skin mainly in the vertical plane, especially above the belly button, the only way to remove this tissue is by adding a vertical incision that meets a horizontal incision below, resembling the shape of a fleur-de-lis flower. It is particularly used in individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight through weight loss surgery.
Surgery Longevity and Recovery
Abdominoplasty aims to provide a permanent solution to aesthetic problems in the abdominal area by removing excess tissues and tightening abdominal muscles. The operation typically involves removing excess tissues from the abdominal skin and tightening abdominal muscles.
Alternative Methods
Abdominoplasty surgeries can be combined with several other surgeries.
Post-Surgery Recovery
Your recovery process can vary depending on your overall health before the surgery, the extent of the procedure, and your body's natural healing rate. Some patients may return to their daily activities within a few days after surgery. However, the recovery process varies based on personal factors, the surgical method used, and your body's response. Additionally, the process of muscle repair and hardening generally takes about 6 weeks. During this time, it's important to gradually increase physical activities and follow your doctor's recommended guidelines carefully.