What Is A Tummy Tuck?
You may be wondering whether a tummy tuck, known as an abdominoplasty, is the right procedure for you. The tummy tuck involves the removal of excess sagging skin and fat from the middle and lower regions of the abdomen. Afterwards, the muscles located in the abdominal wall are tightened.
Abdominoplasty takes place in day surgery and is done under a general anaesthetic.
Who is abdominoplasty for?
There are a few reasons why people choose to get a tummy tuck, including the following:
- People suffering from large fat deposits in the abdominal region, that are resistant to other weight loss methods
- Older patients who have lost skin elasticity due to ageing
- Patients who have suffered trauma or tumours
Is abdominoplasty for you?
The procedure is highly personalised per individual and may not always be suitable for every patient. It’s important to speak to your cosmetic doctor before making the decision to get the surgery, as they will be able to express whether it is the right operation for you.
The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons has outlined the circumstances when the abdominoplasty is suitable or not suitable for an individual.
The abdominoplasty is suitable if you are:
- Fit and healthy
- Non-smoker
- Bothered by a large stomach
- Have realistic expectations
The abdominoplasty is not suitable for you, if any of the following applies:
- Cannot have anaesthetic
- Prone to bleeding and poor healing
- High risk of complication
- Planning to get pregnant
Please also note that the abdominoplasty does not stop any individual from gaining weight in the future.
Potential risks and complications
There are possible risks and complications that can happen during or after the procedure. It’s best to speak to your cosmetic doctor about these complications, as they will walk you through them. They will ask for your medical history and ask about medications, as certain medications can impact surgeries and anaesthetic.
For a general list of surgery risks and complications, please visit this page.
How to prepare for surgery
It’s important to speak to your doctor to understand how you can prepare for the operation. It is also important to prepare for your home recovery area and organise someone to stay with you after surgery.
What happens post-surgery?
Once the surgery has been finished, bandages or dressings may be applied to your incisions. You may also be wrapped in an elastic bandage or compression garment to minimise swelling and support the abdomen while it heals. The doctor may also place a small tube under the incision to collect any excess blood or fluids.
It’s best to speak to your doctor about post-operation procedures and how to care for the surgical site and abdomen, as all cases are different. The best thing to do after any surgical procedure is to rest, follow all instructions, avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting, and to immediately report any issues including immense pain, bleeding, or unusual symptoms.
You should avoid walking for the first 12 hours after surgery and, if so, you should seek help to do so. We also recommend that you do not ride in a car for at least six days unless you are visiting your doctor’s office.
Ask your doctor about the following before having the surgery:
- Medication after surgery?
- Dressings and bandages after surgery?
- How long to wear the bandages for after surgery?
- Will stitches be removed and when?
- When can normal physical activity be resumed?
- When is it safe to return to work?
- When are the follow-up care appointments?
Will there be scarring?
A common question regarding tummy tucks or any surgery, is whether or not there will be scarring. Yes, there will be scarring, as scars are inevitable during invasive surgeries.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us here.
