How is abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) performed?

Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, can be defined as a surgical procedure performed to remove excess fat and sagging skin tissue in the middle and lower abdomen as well as to tighten and lift the abdominal muscles due to various reasons.

Tummy tuck surgery is usually performed to eliminate deformations in the body due to aging, pregnancy, genetic factors and constant fluctuations in weight. With tummy tuck surgery, which is planned and performed specifically for the person, a certain amount of fat in the abdomen can be removed, a tight and flat abdominal profile can be obtained by stretching the skin.

Are the results of tummy tuck surgery permanent?

It is one of the most wondered subjects of people who want to have tummy tuck surgery. The results of tummy tuck surgery, which is a surgical procedure, are permanent. However, this does not mean that some factors affect the results of the operation. If weight control is not achieved after tummy tuck surgery or if there is a new pregnancy, there is a possibility that the results obtained will be adversely affected.

Tummy Tuck is Planned and Performed Individually  

Although a flat stomach is the dream of many men and women, regular exercise and weight control are not always enough to achieve this dream. Some individuals may face a protruding and drooping appearance in the abdomen even if they are at or close to their ideal weight.

The patient is examined in order to decide on eligibility for tummy tuck surgery and to obtain optimum benefit from the surgery. Their needs are determined and their expectations are evaluated in terms of reality. Physical tests and medical evaluation are initiated.

If the patient is a smoker, it is recommended to quit before the surgery in order to have a healthy recovery process. The use of aspirin, herbal supplements and anti-inflammatory drugs, which have the risk of increasing bleeding, should also be avoided.

Abdominoplasty is usually performed under general anaesthesia. In this way, the patient is prevented from feeling pain during the operation. In some patients who underwent a mini tummy tuck, the operation can also be performed under local anaesthesia. Type of anaesthesia is determined specific to the patient according to the scope of the procedure.

In tummy tuck surgery, which can be performed using different techniques, generally a horizontal incision is made in the groin area, in the lower part of the abdomen. The shape and length of the incision are determined according to the excess fat and skin to be removed. Abdominal skin is cut and removed. Then, the weakened abdominal muscles at the bottom are tightened and an extra incision can be made to remove the skin in the upper abdomen if needed. In this case, after the upper abdominal skin is stretched, the excess part is cut and the remaining skin is attached. An opening is created and the belly button is positioned in its new place.

After the excess skin and fat are removed and the abdominal muscles are tightened, the incisions are closed with skin adhesive, stitches or clips, according to the preference of the plastic surgeon. Tummy tuck is completed in an average of 2 to 5 hours, depending on the scope of the procedure.

Recovery Process After Tummy Tuck

Although following the recommendations of the plastic surgeon after tummy tuck surgery is very important for a healthy and fast recovery process, it should not be forgotten that the healing process may differ for each patient. In the first 3 days after the surgery, swelling is usually seen in the abdomen. It is very important to use the prescribed medications regularly during this period accompanied by pain.

In the early period following tummy tuck surgery, patients may have difficulty standing upright. When the stitches will be removed, how often dressings will be made, when to take a bath and for how long the corset will be used may vary according to the instructions of the plastic surgeon.

After tummy tuck surgery, patients usually return to their daily lives within a few weeks. In order to accelerate the healing process, with the approval of the doctor, small exercise programs can be used without straining the abdominal region. In this way, swelling is reduced and it contributes to the functioning of the abdominal muscles.

Incision scars usually continue to appear red for 4 to 5 months after surgery. Since the scars that become obscure over time are usually planned to remain under the underwear, they do not cause an uncomfortable appearance for the patient.