Abdominoplasty (“tummy tuck”) is a plastic surgery procedure that removes loose skin and excessive fat from the lower abdomen, as well as tightening the abdominal muscles for improved contour, tone and function of the abdomen

Abdominoplasty offers great benefits to healthy men and women of all ages. It is best suited to those in relatively good shape, but with loose abdominal fat that won’t respond to dieting or exercise. It is not a surgical procedure to correct major weight problems.

Abdominoplasty is the ideal procedure to correct:

• Loose, sagging abdominal skin
• Excess fat in the abdominal area
• A protruding abdomen
• Abdominal muscles weakened by pregnancy (particularly after several pregnancies or twins), or ageing

Because pregnancy and weight fluctuation can detract from your result from abdominoplasty, it is usually best to postpone surgery until you plan no more children and your weight is stable. Scars from previous operations can limit your abdominoplasty result, however this is less problematic with modern keyhole surgery for many common abdominal conditions. With Caesarean section scars, the new incisions can be made below the existing scar, which can then be removed at the time of your tummy tuck.

Before and After Gallery

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FAQ’s

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   What does abdominoplasty entail?

   Abdominoplasty generally use a horizontal incision above the pubic area. When possible, the incision will be kept within average swimsuit lines. The incision length will depend upon the amount of loose skin to be removed. This incision exposes the underlying abdominal muscles, which can be tightened if needed, by pulling them together and stitching them in place. Excess skin from the lower abdomen is then removed, including as many of the stretch marks as possible. A second incision around the navel is used so the skin can be pulled down and the excess removed, and the navel brought out through a new hole in the skin. Although the navel's position remains unchanged, its appearance may be slightly altered.
   
   To prevent the accumulation of fluids, small drainage tubes are placed beneath the skin. These usually are removed after several days. Though you will feel some soreness, it is generally well controlled with pain medication. Dressings may be applied to your abdomen and covered with tape or an elastic bandage.
   
   To promote blood circulation, you will be encouraged to get up and move around soon after surgery. Bending and lifting, however, should be avoided at this stage. Sleeping on your back with your knees up may also be recommended for the first few weeks after surgery.
   
   Abdominoplasty is performed under a general anaesthetic, and usually requires a hospital stay of several days. As this is major surgery, you should expect to take several weeks of work and exercise to allow full recovery.
   The scars from the surgery are permanent, but usually fade well over the first six to twelve months.

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   Are there other options?

   A full, traditional tummy tuck is not needed for all patients. Some patients will achieve the results they seek with a limited or "mini" abdominoplasty. Liposuction alone may also meet the needs of some.
   
   The "mini" abdominoplasty - This procedure is used to correct issues in the lower abdomen only. It entails less scarring than a full tummy tuck, but will not address loose skin above the navel.
   
   Liposuction alone - This option is viable only in those with good skin elasticity and muscle tone. Though liposuction can remove abdominal fat, it cannot smooth loose skin or tighten abdominal muscle.
   

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   Are there safety concerns associated with a tummy tuck?

   Though thousands women undergo tummy tuck surgery each year and experience no major complications, the procedure does carry risks. It is important you be well informed of these when considering any surgical procedure. During your consultation your surgeon will discuss potential complications with you, listen to your safety questions, and offer instructions on how to minimise your risk.

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   How should I prepare for my abdominoplasty?

   It is important to follow your surgeons’ instructions when preparing for tummy tuck surgery to ensure the best possible results.
   
   Those instructions may include:
   • Refraining from smoking at least 6 weeks before and after surgery
   • Avoiding certain medications
   • Arranging for help following surgery, such as a ride home and in-home care for the first 24 hours after you leave the hospital
   
   
   Within 6 weeks, you should no longer need to wear the compression garment and can return to full activity with no restrictions. Scars will fade as they heal over the next several months and should be protected from the sun to prevent darkening.

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   When will I see my results and how long will they last?

   Soon after surgery, you may begin to notice an improvement to your abdominal shape. As you heal and your swelling subsides, your firmer, sleeker contour will begin to emerge and most patients report a boost in their confidence and a heightened body image after surgery. Though your tummy tuck scarring is permanent, it is generally easy to conceal beneath undergarments and will fade significantly over time.
   
   Generally, you can expect long-lasting results from your abdominoplasty procedure. If you maintain a fairly steady weight, you can expect to keep your new contour for many years. Gravity, aging, and weight fluctuation may loosen the abdominal skin somewhat. If this occurs, additional surgical treatment can be used to restore your sleek contour.