Abdominoplasty Surgery: Types, Preparation and Benefits

• Complete Abdominoplasty: This involves a larger incision that extends from hip to hip and often includes repositioning the belly button. It addresses the entire abdominal area, including the upper and lower abdomen.
• Mini Abdominoplasty targets the lower abdomen below the belly button. It involves a smaller incision and is suitable for individuals with less significant skin and muscle laxity.
• Extended Abdominoplasty addresses the abdomen and targets excess skin and fat on the flanks or sides of the torso.
• Circumferential Abdominoplasty (Body Lift) is a comprehensive procedure that addresses excess skin and fat around the entire midsection, including the front, sides, and back. It is often recommended for individuals who have undergone significant weight loss.

• Indications for Abdominoplasty: Abdominoplasty is considered for individuals with specific aesthetic and functional concerns related to their abdominal area. Common indications include:
• Excess Skin and Fat: Individuals with significant excess skin and fat in the abdominal region resistant to diet and exercise may seek abdominoplasty.
• Post-Pregnancy Changes: Women who have experienced multiple pregnancies may have stretched abdominal muscles and loose skin.
• Weight Loss: Those who have undergone substantial weight loss, either through diet, exercise, or bariatric surgery, may have loose skin and tissue that can be improved with abdominoplasty.
• Ageing Effects: Aging can lead to loss of skin elasticity, resulting in sagging skin and muscle laxity in the abdominal area.
• Diastasis Recti: The separation of abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), often occurring after pregnancy, can cause a protruding abdomen, which can be corrected through muscle tightening during a tummy tuck.
• Desire for Contoured Abdomen: Individuals seeking a more contoured, toned, and aesthetically pleasing abdominal appearance may consider abdominoplasty.

• Excess Skin Removal: Removes sagging or loose skin from the abdominal area.
• Fat Reduction: Reduces stubborn fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise.
• Muscle Tightening: Restores weakened or separated muscles, often after pregnancy.
• Improved Posture: Enhances posture by strengthening abdominal muscles.
• Scar Correction: Improves the appearance of abdominal scars from previous surgeries.
• Hernia Repair: Can correct abdominal wall hernias.

• Plastic Surgeons
• Cosmetic Surgeons
• Reconstructive Surgeons
• Anesthesiologists
• Nurses
• Surgical Assistants

• Consultation with Surgeon: Discuss medical history, expectations, and concerns.
• Pre-Operative Testing: Blood tests and physical examination to assess health.
• Medications: Stop taking certain medications, especially blood thinners, as recommended by the surgeon.
• Smoking Cessation: Avoid smoking at least 4-6 weeks before surgery to promote healing.
• Arrange for Help: Have someone available to assist with daily tasks post-surgery.
• Fasting: Follow the surgeon’s instructions about fasting before the procedure.
• Hydration: Drink as much water as possible before the surgery
• Loose Clothing: On the day of surgery, wear loose and comfortable clothing.
• Mental Preparation: Be mentally prepared for the recovery process, which may take several weeks.

• Anaesthesia: The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring you are asleep and pain-free.
• Incision: The surgeon makes an incision within the bikini line along the lower abdomen, typically from hip to hip.
• Skin and Fat Removal: Excess skin and fat are removed from the abdominal area. The amount of tissue removed varies based on your specific needs and goals.
• Muscle Tightening: If your abdominal muscles are weakened or separated (diastasis recti), the surgeon sutures them together to create a firmer and flatter abdominal contour.
• Belly Button Repositioning: In a full abdominoplasty, the belly button is often repositioned to match the newly contoured abdomen.
• Skin Pulling and Closure: The remaining skin is pulled downward to create a smoother appearance.
• Drains (if necessary): Depending on the surgeon’s preference, drainage tubes may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation and promote healing.
• Dressings and Compression Garment: Dressings are applied to the incision site to protect it.
• Recovery and Monitoring: After the surgery, you will be taken to the recovery area to wake up from anaesthesia. Medical staff will monitor your vital signs and comfort.

• Immediate Postoperative Period: You’ll experience discomfort, swelling, and possibly bruising.
• Compression Garment: You’ll likely be instructed to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and support healing.
• Restricted Activities: Follow your surgeon’s guidelines regarding physical activities. Strenuous exercises and heavy lifting are typically restricted during the initial weeks.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Your surgeon will schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress, remove sutures, and address any concerns.
• Wound Care: Follow your surgeon’s instructions for wound care, including cleaning and caring for the incision site.
• Gradual Improvement: Swelling and bruising will gradually subside over several weeks to months. As you heal, you’ll notice improvements in your abdominal contour.

• Tighter Abdomen
• Improved Confidence
• Better Posture
• Removes Excess Skin
• Improved Body Shape
• Long-term Results

Risks of Abdominoplasty

While abdominoplasty offers many benefits, like any surgery, there are potential risks. It’s important to be aware of these before making a decision.

Lifestyle Changes After Abdominoplasty Surgery Procedure

After undergoing abdominoplasty surgery, there are specific lifestyle changes you may need to consider: