SURGICAL PROCEDURES

Abdominoplasty (Available Upon Request)

Overview

Abdominoplasty, or what everyone refers to as a “tummy tuck”, involves removing excess skin and fat and reshaping the remaining tissue. As a result, the bulge in the abdominal region is minimised for a flatter, more toned appearance.

Procedures

Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty is done to improve the shape and tone of the stomach. As a result, the abdominal connective tissue (fascia) is reshaped using sutures. A patient can decide to have a tummy tuck when extra fat or skin around the stomach or the abdominal wall is too weak.

Excess fat can develop around the stomach due to the skin’s poor elasticity or weakened connective tissue in the area. The reasons for too much tummy fat include changes in a person’s weight, pregnancy, ageing and the patient’s body type.

Typically, the plastic surgeon rearranges the skin around the belly button and then repositions the belly button through a much smaller incision using sutures. Again, an antibiotic provided beforehand will help prevent infection.

Mini tummy tuck

A mini tummy tuck is a semi-invasive procedure that targets the area underneath the belly button. It is extremely challenging to lose weight in the abdominal region with just exercise and diet alone.

A mini tummy-tuck involves flattening the stomach by removing too much skin and fat in the lower part of the stomach. The lower abdominal muscles are sewn together, making the change less apparent outside. A surplus of skin will be flattened through surgical trimming. So, the plastic surgeon stretches lax muscles, making them tighter and removing loose skin.

 

Recovery

After the full abdominoplasty, the surgical area will be covered in bandages. Finally, incision drains are inserted to remove excess fluid or blood. Walking is encouraged on the first day after surgery to prevent blood clots from forming.

After a mini tummy tuck, the plastic surgeon will recommend wearing an abdominal binder (compression garment) for six weeks at most. An abdominal binder prevents fluid build-up and strengthens the abdomen.

After surgery, you can expect the following:

  • Swelling
  • Tingling sensation
  • Bruising
  • Pain around the area

FAQ

1Is there a difference between a full tummy tuck versus a mini-abdominoplasty?
Before a full tummy tuck, your plastic surgeon will administer anaesthesia. But the main idea is that both procedures differ in terms of the amount of skin looseness present. This is because a full abdominoplasty addresses loose skin and fat expanding over the belly, while a mini tummy tuck only addresses the fat below the lower belly.
2What are the side effects of a mini tummy tuck?
  • A seroma is when fluid accumulates underneath the skin.
  • Improper healing of the wound
  • Scarring
  • Damage to surrounding tissue
  • A lack of feeling in the skin
3Does it take longer to heal from a tummy tuck?
It takes about six weeks to heal, but wearing a compression garment helps prevent fluid build-up and poor wound healing until then.

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT