Sometimes, regardless of how much exercise you do, your abdomen becomes flabby. It might be down to pregnancy or previous weight loss but whatever the cause, this excess fat causes low self-esteem and can be embarrassing. Abdominoplasty helps eliminate the problem, removing loose excess skin and firming the muscles to improve the shape of your abdomen.
Depending on the amount of excess skin and fat we need to remove, it is sometimes possible to have a mini tummy tuck, where only the excess skin is removed. The result is a shorter, inconspicuous scar. We will talk you through the choices at your initial consultation.
In some circumstances we can combine a tummy tuck with liposuction on the waistline, also called the flanks. This provides an even more defined, contoured shape. Again, we will talk this through with you at your initial consultation.
Abdominoplasty is a suitable procedure for someone who is close to their ideal weight and who has loose skin and stretch marks, perhaps following childbirth or after a dramatic loss in weight. A tummy tuck is not suitable for someone who is grossly overweight.
Ultimately, abdominoplasty (or tummy tuck) is a cosmetic surgery procedure that removes slack and loose abdominal skin and stretch marks, resulting in a firmer and flatter stomach.
Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthetic. It involves one or two nights in hospital, where a specialists will monitor and support you through the postoperative phase.
The operation lasts two to three hours, during which the surgeon removes excess skin and fat. You will be left with a scar from hip to hip, which runs across the pubic bone, hidden by your underwear. It usually fades right back with time. You might also want your belly button repositioned at the same time, for a more youthful look.
We might also need to repair the abdominal muscle if it has been damaged by multiple childbirths.
You will see some swelling, bruising and tenderness. Because this is carried out under a general anaesthetic, it can take as long as two weeks to feel fully recovered from the anaesthetic.
You will have a scar to replace the loose skin that has been removed and tightened. The time it takes to fade varies from person to person.
This operation is usually performed after childbirth, after dramatic weight loss, and to treat ageing loose skin. It is only performed once and is extremely long-lasting.
