A tummy tuck, commonly known as an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical operation that entails shrinking and firming the abdomen. It focuses on removing excess fat and skin from the area around the lower abdomen. In most cases, it can also widened central muscle of the abdomen known as rectus, giving men and women the abdominal profile, they desire.
Regrettably, sometimes correct diets and exercise are insufficient to obtain the desired abdominal contour. A tummy tuck can help persons drooping or loose skin around their abdomen.
Types of abdominoplasty
- Complete abdominoplasty
This procedure is for patients that need the most correction. The incision is made at the level of your pubic hair, at the bikini line and the length of the scar depends on the amount of extra skin. Your surgeon then manipulates and shapes the anterior abdominal wall. It is necessary to have your navel separated from the surrounding tissue, hence there will also be an incision on your belly button. Draining tubes can be used during the procedure and will be removed as and when the surgeon sees fit.
- Mini-abdominoplasty
Mini-abdominoplasty is a type of abdominoplasty that uses shorter incisions and is commonly used on those who have less extra skin. Between the incision line and your belly button, your skin will be split, and the latter is less likely to be displaced. It takes approximately one to two hours to complete this surgery. There are chances of having drainage tubes following the surgery just as there are chances of having the same after full abdominoplasty.
- Circumferential abdominoplasty
Circumferential abdominoplasty is a type of abdominoplasty that encompasses the back. You might get back liposuction or circumferential abdominoplasty if you have a lot of excess fat in your back as well as your abdomen. The latter surgery removes both skin and fat from the hip and back areas, resulting in a more youthful appearance.
Benefits of an abdominoplasty or tummy tuck surgery
Both men and women who are in good general health and have a stable weight can undergo an abdominoplasty. An abdominoplasty is not the same as liposuction which is a cosmetic surgery that removes fat deposits; however, your surgeon may choose to include liposuction as part of the abdominoplasty surgery.
Women with strained muscles and skin after several pregnancies may benefit from the surgery to tighten their muscles and remove redundant skin. A tummy tuck is also an option for men and women who were obese at one time in their lives and have lost a large amount of weight but still have excess fat or loose skin near the stomach or waist.
Because of the health and cosmetic benefits of a tummy tuck, many people are pleased with the end result. A tummy tuck offers a number of benefits to the right patient, including:
- Getting close to their pre-pregnancy abdomen
- Get a flatter, firmer stomach and a more sculpted midsection.
Risk factors and complications of undergoing abdominoplasty
After surgery, you should expect pain and swelling. As needed, your doctor will prescribe pain medication. It's possible that the pain will linger for several weeks. You may experience numbness, bruising, and general exhaustion.
There are dangers associated with any procedure. In case you have poor circulation, diabetes, heart, lung, or liver illness, or if you are a smoker, you may be at a higher risk of these issues.
Complications can include the following:
- Scarring
- Hematoma
- Infection
- Seroma
- Wound healing is poor
- Clots in the blood
- Numbness or other sensational changes
- Necrosis of the fat (death of fatty tissue located deep in the skin).
- Separation of wounds
- Asymmetry (unevenness or lopsidedness).
While most people are pleased with the outcome of the surgery, it is an emotional, physical and financial commitment to undergo the procedure. Consult with experts and your doctor before you choose to undergo the surgery for a smoother and more informed process.
Recovery Post-Surgery
It’s important to remember to give your body time to heal. There might be swelling, pain, scarring and discomfort. This is normal and will get better. Your recuperation will depend on several factors, including your age, health, and body weight. It will also depend on the type of tummy tuck you have.
You may need to take a few medications and have the draining tube for a few weeks. The doctor will walk you through the do’s and don’ts along with home care. Rest in the first few days is very important after which you must include slow movements, like walking in your daily activities. Do not push yourself to do any activity before your body is ready for it.
If there are any signs of concern or infection, please get in touch with your doctor at the earliest.
