How is Abdominoplasty Performed?
Sagging, looseness and excess fat tissue in the abdominal area can cause many people to experience aesthetic concerns. Factors such as pregnancy, rapid weight gain and loss and aging can create an undesirable appearance in the abdominal area. In this case, abdominoplasty surgery offers an effective and permanent solution.
What is Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty surgery is a surgical procedure performed to remove excess skin and fat tissue in the abdominal area and tighten loose abdominal muscles. Thanks to this operation, the abdominal area gains a flatter, tighter and more aesthetic appearance. Abdominoplasty surgery is generally preferred for sagging and deformations that cannot be eliminated with diet and exercise.
Who is Abdominoplasty Suitable for?
Abdominoplasty is generally recommended in the following cases:
Women who have sagging and stretch marks in their abdominal skin after pregnancy, those who experience looseness in the abdominal area after rapid weight loss, those who have lost elasticity in their abdominal muscles and skin due to aging, and those who cannot get rid of excess fat and skin in their abdominal area despite diet and exercise are suitable candidates for this surgery. However, the general health status of the person is evaluated before the surgery and it is checked whether there is a condition that prevents the surgery.
How is Abdominoplasty Performed?
Abdominoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia in a hospital environment. The duration of the surgery varies depending on the scope of the procedure to be performed, but it takes an average of 2-4 hours. Here are the stages of Abdominoplasty surgery:
Preparation and Anesthesia
The general health status of the patient is evaluated before the surgery, and the necessary blood tests and examinations are performed. On the day of the surgery, the patient is taken to the operating room and general anesthesia is applied. Thus, the patient does not feel anything during the surgery.
Opening the Incisions
The surgeon usually makes a horizontal incision in the groin area, in an area that can be hidden by underwear. This incision extends between the two hips in the lower abdomen. In some cases, an additional incision may be made around the navel.
Removal of Skin and Fatty Tissues
The abdominal skin and the fatty tissue underneath are lifted upwards up to the navel by entering through the incision. If necessary, excess fatty tissue can also be removed by liposuction.
Tightening of Abdominal Muscles
If the abdominal muscles have loosened, especially after pregnancy or weight gain and loss, these muscles are brought closer together, stitched and tightened. In this way, the abdominal wall becomes flatter and tighter.
Removal of Excess Skin and Shaping
The loosened and sagging excess skin is carefully cut and removed. The remaining skin is pulled downwards and the abdominal area is reshaped. The navel is moved to its new location and a natural appearance is achieved.
Closure of Incision Sites
After all procedures are completed, the incision sites are closed with aesthetic stitches. If necessary, drains can be placed in the surgical area to drain the accumulated fluids.
Post-Operative Recovery Process
A 1-2 day stay in the hospital may be required after abdominoplasty. Mild pain, swelling and bruising are normal in the first days. Painkillers and antibiotics recommended by the doctor are used. Drains are usually removed within a few days. Patients can usually return to their daily activities within 2-4 weeks. However, activities such as heavy exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.
Using a special corset in the post-operative period accelerates recovery and helps shape the abdominal area. Stitches usually dissolve on their own or are removed by the doctor. Surgical scars may be visible at first, but they fade and become less noticeable over time.
Risks and Complications of Abdominoplasty
As with any surgical procedure, abdominoplasty also has some risks. Complications such as infection, bleeding, opening of stitches, delayed wound healing, loss of sensation in the skin and scarring may occur, although rare. In order to minimize these risks, it is necessary to meticulously follow the doctor’s recommendations before and after the surgery.
