Just like other parts of our bodies, as we age, the abdominal skin loses its elasticity and the underlying muscle becomes loose and weak.

This together with the change of fat distribution, with preferential distribution of fat to the lower abdomen, leads to a significant change of abdominal shape. This natural phenomena is often exacerbated by pregnancy which may further stretch and separate the muscle, creating a bulge as well as excess loose skin with stretch marks which is not reversible with any form of exercise. In some, the lower abdominal bulge arises from the redundant skin fold following weight loss.

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a procedure aimed at removing the loose excess skin, including stretch marks, and tighten the weakened or separated abdominal muscle. When properly performed, should not only produce a firm and taut abdomen but also recreate a waistline that was once obscured by a loose skin flap.

If your fat deposits are limited to the area below the navel, you may require a partial abdominoplasty, also known as a mini-tummy tuck, which can often be performed on an outpatient basis. On the other hand, you may benefit more from partial or complete abdominoplasty done in conjunction with liposuction to remove fat deposits from the hips for a better body contour. This in turn would provide a more harmonious aesthetic balance with the whole body.

If you are concerned by the appearance of your tummy, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) may be a good choice for you.

Abdominoplasty is best suited to women and men who have loose abdominal skin and / or a significant amount of abdominal fat that won’t respond to dieting and exercise.

You may be a good candidate for abdominoplasty if you have:

• Excess or loose, sagging abdominal skin
• An abdomen that protrudes and is out of proportion to the rest of your body
• Abdominal muscles that have weakened by pregnancy or aging
• Excess fat that is concentrated beneath the abdominal skin
• Abdominal wall defect or hernia
• Grossly overweight patients to enable them to care for themselves

Abdominoplasty is performed in the hospital under general or spinal anaesthesia. Generally, a horizontal incision is placed just within or above the pubic area. The length of the incision depends largely on the amount of skin to be removed and usually the incision can be placed within the lines of the bathing suit.

Working through this incision, the underlying muscles are tightened. Liposuction, if needed is performed concomitantly to contour the waist, hips & back to reshape your figure. The excess skin is trimmed & stitched. The key part is the fascial suturing to get the contour right. Small drain tubes may be inserted under your skin to prevent fluid accumulation. Any discomfort will be controlled by medication.

You will notice swelling and bruising which is expected & will subside after a few weeks. Drain tubes come out after a few days. Stitches will generally be removed by the tenth day after surgery.

Complete abdominoplasty usually takes 4 – 5 hrs., depending on the extent of work required. Partial abdominoplasty (mini tummy tuck) may take 2-3 hrs.

A minimum stay of 2 days (48 hours) is advised with a full abdominoplasty (especially if combined with another procedure). A mini abdominoplasty can be performed on an outpatient basis although an overnight stay is advised.

GA/EA/SA

You will be encouraged to get out of bed to promote blood circulation. In this early phase of healing, straining, bending and lifting should be avoided. You will be instructed to sleep on your back with your knees and hips bent.

Although everyone heals at different rate, your recovery is generally as follows: The dressing will be removed within few days. You will notice swelling and bruising which is expected. Both will subside after a few weeks. Drain tubes come out after a few days. Stitches will generally be removed by the tenth day after surgery.

The pressure garment must be worn as instructed for at least 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. You may return to work in a few days and resume most of your normal activities within a week or two. It is important to treat your healing skin with extra care – i.e. avoiding sun exposure

You may have a detailed discussion about this during your personal consultation. Some of the possible complications include – anaesthesia related complications, fluid accumulation, hematoma, infection, delayed skin healing, contour irregularity etc.

You will see noticeable difference in the shape of your body soon after surgery. A firmer, flatter abdomen boosts the confidence and makes you feel more comfortable in trendier clothing. Although the scar fades with time, it will be there permanently . Abdominoplasty produces long-lasting results. Unless you gain or lose a significant weight you can expect to retain your shape for years

If you are considering a tummy tuck, consult with a qualified surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations. At Skin and Shape Clinic, Dr. Anju Methil and her team offer expert advice and personalized treatment plans to help you achieve the best results.