How Is a Tummy Tuck Performed?
Sagging, laxity and excess fat tissue in the abdominal area cause aesthetic concern for many people. Pregnancy, rapid weight gain and loss, and ageing in particular can create an unwanted appearance in the abdomen. In such cases, a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) offers an effective and lasting solution.
What Is a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure carried out to remove excess skin and fat tissue from the abdominal area and to tighten loosened abdominal muscles. Thanks to this operation, the abdomen gains a flatter, firmer and more aesthetic appearance. A tummy tuck is generally the treatment of choice for sagging and deformity that cannot be resolved through diet and exercise.
Who Is a Tummy Tuck Suitable For?
A tummy tuck is generally recommended in the following situations:
Women who have developed sagging and stretch marks in the abdominal skin after pregnancy, people left with laxity in the abdominal area after rapid weight loss, those who have lost elasticity in the abdominal muscles and skin because of ageing, and people who cannot get rid of excess fat and skin in the abdominal area despite diet and exercise are all suitable candidates for this surgery. Before surgery, however, the patient’s general state of health is assessed and it is checked whether there is any condition that would rule out the operation.
How Is a Tummy Tuck Performed?
A tummy tuck is generally performed under general anaesthesia in a hospital setting. The length of the operation varies with the extent of the procedure, but on average it takes 2-4 hours. The stages of a tummy tuck are as follows:
Preparation and Anaesthesia
Before the operation, the patient’s general state of health is assessed and the necessary blood tests and investigations are carried out. On the day of surgery, the patient is taken into the operating theatre and general anaesthesia is administered, so that the patient feels nothing during the procedure.
Making the Incisions
The surgeon usually makes a horizontal incision in the pubic area, in a zone that can be concealed by underwear. This incision runs across the lower abdomen, from one hip to the other. In some cases, an additional incision may be made around the navel.
Lifting the Skin and Fat Tissue
Working through the incision, the abdominal skin and the fat tissue beneath it are lifted upwards as far as the navel. Where necessary, excess fat tissue can also be removed by liposuction (fat removal).
Tightening the Abdominal Muscles
If the abdominal muscles have loosened, particularly after pregnancy or weight fluctuations, they are brought closer together, sutured and tightened. This leaves the abdominal wall flatter and firmer.
Removing Excess Skin and Reshaping
The loosened, sagging excess skin is carefully excised and removed. The remaining skin is drawn downwards and the abdominal area is reshaped. The navel is moved to its new position and given a natural appearance.
Closing the Incisions
Once every step is complete, the incisions are closed with aesthetic sutures. If needed, drains may be placed so that fluid collecting in the surgical area can escape.
The Recovery Process After Surgery
After a tummy tuck, a hospital stay of 1-2 days may be necessary. Mild pain, swelling and bruising are normal in the first few days. The painkillers and antibiotics recommended by the doctor are used. The drains are usually removed within a few days. Patients can generally return to their daily activities within 2-4 weeks. Activities such as strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 6 weeks, however.
In the period after surgery, wearing a special compression garment speeds up recovery and helps the abdominal area take shape. The sutures usually dissolve on their own or are removed by the doctor. Surgical scars may be noticeable at first, but they fade with time and become less visible.
Risks and Complications of a Tummy Tuck
As with every surgical procedure, a tummy tuck carries certain risks. Complications such as infection, bleeding, wound separation, delayed wound healing, loss of sensation in the skin and scarring may occur, albeit rarely. To keep these risks to a minimum, the doctor’s instructions before and after surgery must be followed meticulously.