Abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a ‘tummy tuck’, involves the surgical resection of excess skin from the abdomen with the aim of tightening and contouring the tummy. By removing excess skin around the lower abdomen, we can tighten and slim the tummy, creating a more toned midsection.
WHY CONSIDER AN ABDOMINOPLASTY?
A tummy tuck is a favoured cosmetic procedure for those who want to tighten stretched skin and flatten their midsections. It’s helpful when exercise and diet have been exhausted, and fat becomes stubborn and unresponsive to standard weight-loss approaches. Usually, after excessive weight loss or following pregnancy, the skin or muscle has trouble returning to its original shape.
There are also benefits to the procedure, such as:
- The prevention of infection and skin rashes that form beneath the skin folds.
- Boosts confidence.
VARIATIONS OF THE TUMMY TUCK
- An extended tummy tuck involves an incision that runs from the hips to the back. With this particular approach, your surgeon, Dr Botha, can tighten the waistline.
- A mini tummy tuck involves much smaller incisions on the lower abdomen.
- A reverse tummy tuck focuses on the upper belly and involves the resection of extra skin above the belly button.
WHAT DOES A CLASSIC TUMMY TUCK INVOLVE?
Your surgeon makes an incision across the stomach just over the pubic bone. Afterwards, she removes excess fatty tissue and skin from the lower abdomen and midsection. Sutures may be used to help tighten the abs. To finalise the procedure, she places stitches to close the area and inserts tubes to drain fluid.
OUTCOME
In most cases, you can return home on the day of the scheduled procedure. In the first few days, you may experience pain or discomfort in the area, but Dr Botha will help manage it and ensure a smooth recovery.
While a tummy tuck isn’t considered a weight-loss procedure, it can effectively remove excess fat and skin in the midsection, helping tone the tummy and create a flatter stomach.
FAQ
1. What can a mini tummy tuck help with?
A mini tummy tuck specifically focuses on the lower abdominal region. It helps remove loose, flabby skin on the lower abdomen.
2. How long does a tummy tuck last?
The results from an abdominoplasty are permanent. However, you still have to maintain a stable, healthy weight.
3. Are there any risks?
As with any surgery, there may be rare risks, such as infection, bleeding, and blood clots.