Abdominoplasty, otherwise known as the tummy tuck surgery, is a procedure that removes excess fat and tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall, flattening the abdomen in the process to leave you with a toned stomach and smooth abdominal profile. Sometimes confused with liposuction, abdominoplasty can be useful for people who have sagging and protrusion due to weight loss or pregnancy. However, a tummy tuck is not an alternative to a healthy lifestyle and should be treated as a last resort after exhausting other weight loss methods.
The Surgery
Abdominoplasty takes approximately three hours to complete and is performed under general anesthetic. The surgeon will make an arched incision horizontally across your hips and just above the pubic area. The underlying tissue is then separated from the skin and fat to allow the abdominal muscles to be accessed and tightened. After the muscles have been sewn together into a new position, the surgeon will relocate your naval to achieve a natural look post surgery. Just before the wound is closed, the excess skin and fatty tissue will be clipped to ensure the reduction of sagging and protrusion.
The Recovery
After the surgery it is normal to experience some pain and discomfort, and bruising and swelling of the abdominal area is typical. There is also a high probability that you will experience numbness in the area between the naval and incision point. The wound will be dressed with a compression bandage to aid the swelling and a drainage tube will be inserted into the wound to prevent a build up of fluid. You are likely to be unable to stand initially so it is important to wear compression stockings to avoid the formation of blood clots. As your wound begins to heal, it is important to remain well rested and avoid lifting heavy objects and vigorous exercise for at least one month after surgery.
Complications
As with all surgery, complications are a possibility and should be taken into consideration. There is a small chance that you will have an allergic reaction to the anesthetic, which, in very rare cases can be fatal. Other complications include a collapsed lung; nerve damage, prolonged swelling and fluid build up. Temporary numbness in the thighs is a common side effect, if you experience prolonged numbness contact our staff at Refine cosmetic surgery Sydney.
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