Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
What is the Procedure?
An abdominoplasty, or “tummy tuck,” is a transformative body contouring procedure that creates a smoother, firmer abdominal profile. It is designed to address issues that diet and exercise cannot fix, such as loose, excess skin, stubborn pockets of fat, and weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), often resulting from pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations. The procedure removes the excess skin and fat and surgically tightens the muscle wall, resulting in a flatter and more toned midsection.
Who is a Good Candidate for this Procedure?
An ideal candidate for a tummy tuck is someone who:
- Is bothered by the presence of loose abdominal skin and a protruding abdomen .
- Has weakened abdominal muscles from pregnancy or weight loss.
- Is at a stable weight and in good physical health.
- Is a non smoker, as smoking severely compromises healing.
- Has realistic expectations about the outcome, including the presence of a permanent scar.
- Is not planning future pregnancies, as this can re stretch the repaired muscles.
The Consultation Process
- During our private consultation, we will discuss your specific concerns about your abdomen. We will evaluate the amount of excess skin, the degree of muscle separation, and the overall quality of your skin tone. This physical assessment will help us determine the most appropriate surgical technique to meet your goals. We will discuss the procedure in detail, including scar placement and the recovery process.
Surgical Procedure
- Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia. The specific technique varies based on the patient’s needs.
- Full Abdominoplasty: This is the most common technique. An incision is made low on the abdomen, from hip to hip, typically within the bikini line. A second incision is made around the navel to free it from the surrounding tissue. The abdominal skin is lifted, the underlying muscles are repaired and tightened with internal sutures, excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is pulled down. A new opening is created for the navel, and the incisions are closed.
- Mini Abdominoplasty: This is suitable for patients with a small amount of excess skin
and muscle laxity confined to the area below the navel. It involves a shorter incision and
does not require an incision around the navel.
- Liposuction is often combined with a tummy tuck to further refine the contour of the waist and flanks.
Recovery and Downtime
Weeks 1-2:
This is the primary recovery period. You will have surgical drains in place for several days. Expect swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which will be managed with medication. You will need to wear a compression garment (abdominal binder). You will be required to walk in a slightly bent-over position and must have assistance at home.
Weeks 2-4:
You can gradually stand up straighter and may be able to return to a desk job. Light walking is encouraged, but lifting and strenuous activity are strictly prohibited.
Weeks 6-8:
You can typically resume most of your normal activities, including more vigorous exercise, as cleared by me.
Months 6-12:
Swelling will continue to resolve, and your scar will begin to fade and mature. The final, sculpted result will become fully apparent.
Potential Risks and Complications
- Risks include bleeding, infection, fluid collection (seroma), poor wound healing, blood clots (DVT), unfavourable scarring, and changes in skin sensation. Following all pre- and post operative instructions is critical to minimizing these risks.
Frequently Asked questions (FAQs)
Will I have a scar?
Yes, a tummy tuck results in a permanent scar across the lower abdomen. I will place the incision as low as possible so it can be concealed by underwear or a bikini bottom.
Is this a weight loss surgery? No. A tummy tuck is a contouring
procedure. While some weight is removed (the excised skin and fat), it is not a tool for significant weight loss.
Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck? While it is physically possible
and safe, a future pregnancy will stretch the abdominal skin and muscles again, potentially compromising the surgical results.
Take the Next Step
If you are ready to restore a firm, flat abdomen, schedule a consultation at my clinic in Rajahmundry to create a personalized surgical plan