The skin of our abdomen is subject to stretch caused by pregnancy, weight changes and age-related laxity. Whilst exercise and maintaining a healthy body weight can improve the shape of our abdomen, often however, once the skin is lax, it remains lax despite one’s best efforts.
Abdominoplasty (or ‘tummy tuck’) is a procedure commonly undertaken to reduce excess abdominal skin, reposition displaced muscles, in order to create a more refined shape.
What can I expect?
Abdominoplasty may be performed in isolation when only anterior abdominal tissue is in excess, or may be combined with other procedures to reshape the entire trunk or thighs. It is important that we understand the driving cause for the excess tissue, so that the correct treatment plan can be planned. For post-pregnancy loose tissue, there may also be malposition of the anterior abdominal muscles (rectus diastasis) which requires correction. In those whom have lots significant amounts of weight, the skin is often loose in multiple directions, requiring a more nuanced tightening procedure.
The result is a much more shaped abdomen, with a well-placed fine line surgical incision line ideally placed within the underwear line.
Prior to surgery, as part of a routine examination, you will need to have your body weight checked and height measured. We understand that, for some patients, this may be confronting, but to achieve the best result in the safest possible way, Richard must ensure you are at a stable, healthy body weight.
What happens before surgery?
On the day of surgery, you will be checked in and all details confirmed. Abdominoplasty is usually performed with an overnight stay (although some patients may choose to stay longer to recover). You’ll see the Anaesthetist and discuss your plan for pain relief. Richard will make some markings on the operative sites to guide during surgery, then pre-operative photographs before you go into theatre.
What happens during surgery?
In theatre, your Anaesthetist will place you safely under general anaesthetic, monitoring your health throughout the procedure. The anterior abdominal skin and underlying fatty tissue will be lifted, with preservation of your umbilicus, then any tightening of the underlying muscle can be undertaken to reshape the abdomen.The excess skin is removed and meticulously redraped into it’s new position. Occasionally, surgical drains are placed but this on a case by case basis. A post-operative garment is applied in theatre to provide support as heal.
What happens after surgery?
Most patients go home the day after surgery, and you should plan to have an adult around to help for the first few days or so you can concentrate on your recovery. You should expect a moderate degree of discomfort, and abdominal tightness which settles over the first week or two. This is most often controlled by regular oral analgesia as guided by your Anaesthetist. It’s really important to keep your surgical garment on full time for the first two weeks, and no lifting/ pulling/ straining for the first month and 6 weeks before jogging or sit-ups. Expect areas of numbness over the abdomen, mostly around the incision lines, which become less noticeable over time. You’ll be seen in our rooms at one week to ensure you’re doing well and at around six weeks with Richard. As always, please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any concerns. Over the coming 6 months, your shape will settle and scars start to mature.