Tummy Tuck is a major surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen it’s main objective is to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall, secondarily it also can repair an umbilical or abdominal hernia. The removed fat and skin is permanent. With this surgery you will have a tight and flatter abdomen. The trade-off for this surgery is a repositioned navel and some scars resulting from the incision points. The “Tummy Tuck” will not remove stretch marks unless they are in the removed lower abdominal skin pad.

The timing of this operation is paramount. This surgery is performed on patients who have an excess of skin and fat for many reasons including but not limited to: post pregnancy, recent substantial weight loss or previous abdominal surgery. Many reasons in life can leave excess skin in the abdominal area, a simple and aesthetic solution is the “tummy tuck”.

This is considered mayor surgery, it is done in an inpatient basis in a hospital. Recommended time as an inpatient after surgery is usually one night.

Best candidates for "Tummy Tuck":

1- Large fat deposits or loose abdominal skin (that do not respond to diet or exercise).

2- Multiple pregnancies (stretched abdominal muscles and skin)

3- Loss of skin elasticity (Age related loss of skin elasticity).

This procedure is done with general anesthesia, so you will be sleep through the entirety of the operation. Your “Tummy Tuck” may take between 3 to 4 hours, depending on the extent of work required.

Before the operation, the surgeon will mark the incision lines on your abdomen in the hospital room. The incision will go from hipbone to hipbone, just above the pubic area. A second incision is made to free the navel from surrounding tissue. Skin from the abdominal wall all the way up to your ribs will be separated and a large skin flap will be lifted to reveal the vertical muscles of your abdomen. These muscles are tightened by pulling them close together and stitching them into their new position. This provides a firmer abdominal wall, a narrowed waistline and contouring into an attractive shape. The skin flap is then stretched down while removing the excess skin. A new navel is created and stitched in place in a natural position. A temporary drainage tube is usually inserted to drain excess fluid from the surgical site.

Swelling, firmness and slight pain with discomfort may be felt post surgically. These effects are readily controlled by medications in the first few days after surgery. Recovery will consist on “bed rest” 1 day after surgery in the hospital bed. You are allowed to move around in the first few days however patients usually prefer to avoid movement as pain might ensue in the initial recovery period. Since this operation tightens your abdominal muscles you will feel tight and may walk slightly stooped for 2 weeks. Surgical swelling can be quickly reduced and controlled by wearing a waist binder (girdle) or elastic body stocking (adjustable abdominoplasty garment) for 6 weeks provided by my team immediately after surgery. Adequate recovery to resume daily and work related activities may take between 3 and 5 weeks after a tummy tuck. Exercise and active movements are routinely encouraged. An early deambulation and exercise leads to a faster and better healing process.

SIDE EFFECTS:

1- Residual swelling in your abdomen up to 6 months – active exercise will help correct and mitigate this side effect.

2- Skin surrounding your abdomen will be completely numb for around 6 weeks, sensation will return during the next 6- 12 months

4- Abdominal tightness for the first 6 weeks- tightness will subside in the weeks.

Post operative complications include those of any major surgery such as an infection and blood clots. Both of the previous complications are rare, but they can occur. Infection can be treated with drainage and antibiotics, but will prolong your hospital stay. Blood clot risk can be drastically minimized by moving around as soon after the surgery as possible.

Smoking increases your risk of complications and delay of healing. We strongly recommend smoking cessation at least a week prior to surgery and the week after surgery. Poor healing can result in conspicuous scars which may require a scar revision.

The “Tummy Tuck” procedure can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence. Realistic expectations with previous preparation and knowledge about the surgery will lead to excellent outcomes and satisfaction. If you’re ready to lose excess skin, the “Tummy Tuck” /Abdominoplasty procedure may be just the answer for you.