Abdominoplasty, or a “tummy tuck,” is a cosmetic or reconstructive surgery that tightens loose muscles, removes excess fat and skin, and improves the overall shape and tone of the abdomen. While it’s not a substitute for weight loss or exercise, abdominoplasty can provide a firmer and smoother profile. It’s recommended to consider this procedure only after achieving a stable weight through diet and exercise.
Things to consider before deciding to have abdominoplasty
Before undergoing abdominoplasty, consider the following key factors. The results are generally permanent, but significant weight changes or future pregnancies can impact the outcome. Abdominoplasty isn’t a treatment for stretch marks, although treated areas with stretch marks will be removed. Weigh the financial costs, as Medicare and private insurance may only cover some expenses. Smokers face increased surgical risks, so quitting beforehand is advised. Additionally, consider seeking a second opinion to ensure you’re fully informed.
Your current medical status and abdominoplasty
When considering abdominoplasty, it’s essential to discuss your medical status with your practitioner, covering physical health, mental health, medications, allergies, and past reactions. This conversation enables your practitioner to assess potential risks and complications, provide guidance on necessary preparations, and ensure a smooth recovery.
Abdominoplasty – what happens during surgery
Abdominoplasty must be performed in licensed and accredited facilities, with a registered anaesthetist present to address any adverse reactions. You can verify your anaesthetist’s registration on the AHPRA website. There are two main types of abdominoplasty procedures available.
- The medical practitioner makes a horizontal, curved incision (cut) near the pubic hairline, which runs from one hip to the other.
- The skin and fatty tissue are lifted from the underlying tissue.
- The medical practitioner stitches and tightens slack or separated abdominal muscles.
- Excess fat is removed.
- Excess skin is trimmed.
- The navel is repositioned.
- The wounds are closed with stitches, tape or clips
Immediately after abdominoplasty
After the operation, you can expect:
- a drain in the wound to help prevent fluid build-up
- bruising and swelling
- probable numbness in the skin between the navel and the wound
- pain and discomfort
- inability to stand up straight, to begin with
- a 'tugging' sensation at your abdomen
- dressings or bandages on your abdomen
Potential complications of abdominoplasty
All surgery carries some degree of risk. Some of the possible complications of abdominoplasty include:
- wound infection for which treatment with antibiotics might be required
- pain and discomfort around the incision sites
- haematoma (an accumulation of blood around the surgical site that may require drainage)
- visible and prominent scars, including keloid and hypertrophic scars – these are raised, thickened scars that form over healed incisions
- numbness around operated sites – in most cases this is temporary and will improve over many months
- areas of skin that do not heal and may require a skin graft
Results:
Self-care at home after abdominoplasty
Be guided by your medical practitioner, but general self-care suggestions include:
- rest as much as possible
- follow all instructions on looking after your wound
- avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for at least one month
- report any bleeding, severe pain or unusual symptoms to your medical practitioner.
Long-term outlook following abdominoplasty
Be aware that having an abdominoplasty will not stop you gaining weight in the future.
Scarring will be permanent but should fade in time. Be patient – it may take around a year or so. Some puckering on the outside edge of the scar might remain.
Alternatives to abdominoplasty
- eating a healthy, low-fat diet
- getting regular exercise
- getting regular exercise
- wearing foundation garments to flatten the tummy area
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