Abdominoplasty
The skin of the abdomen is stretched by pregnancy or weight gain. Following childbirth or significant weightloss the stretched skin becomes lax and overhangs the pubic area. No amount of diet or exercise can overcome skin laxity, particularly if stretch marks have developed. In this situation, the excess fat and skin must be removed surgically.
Why do patients seek an abdominoplasty?
Patients are embarrassed by appearance of the abdomen when the skin is stretched, overhangs the tops of trousers and skirts, causes a bulge under fitted dresses and is visible above and below bikini bottoms. Patients are also distressed by prominent stretch marks and a stretched bellybutton which they find very unappealing. They are inhibited about wearing swimsuits and bikinis and do not like to take their children swimming or go out on the beach on holiday. These problems can be corrected by an abdominoplasty.
What does an abdominoplasty involve?
The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic and usually involves two nights in hospital.
Plastic tube drains are inserted under the abdominal skin to remove any excess blood or fluid for the first 24 to 48 hours. These drains are then removed, the patient is able to have a shower and have the dressings changed before being discharged home. An appointment is made for removal of sutures a week following surgery and for a review in two weeks after surgery.
Patients should not be on blood thinning medication such as aspirin or warfarin and ideally should not take nicotine in any form for six weeks before surgery.
What is the normal postoperative course?
The abdomen feels tight for the first few days after the operation and patients are not able to stand fully erect. On the first postoperative day an elasticated abdominal binder is applied to the abdomen for support and gentle mobilisation is begun. By the second postoperative day most patients are mobile and discharged home.
It is advisable to have help around the house and with young children for the first couple of weeks after surgery. At the end of two weeks most patients are able to drive, carry light shopping and prepare light meals. At the end of four weeks patients are expected to be able to return to normal lifestyle including gym, sport and aerobics, providing they have not had tightening of the abdominal muscles or repair of an abdominal hernia at the same time as the abdominoplasty.
How much time do I need off work?
Most people are able to return to work which does not involve heavy lifting in approximately two to three weeks after surgery. It may take up to six weeks for some patients to return to normal work and leisure activities.
What are the complications of this procedure?
A very small percentage of patients who undergo a tummy tuck suffer complications. These may include bleedings, haematoma (blood clot under skin), seroma (fluid collection under skin) and infection. There can be delayed wound healing in the centre of the wound, slight asymmetry in the size and shape of the scar or the position of the bellybutton and a change in sensation over the abdomen.
