Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Many women experience sagging or protrusion of the abdomen after childbirth, which can cause embarrassment or discomfort. However, there is no need to worry as it is now possible to undergo a cosmetic procedure to tighten the abdomen.
The Procedure Involves:
This procedure involves removing excess skin in the abdominal area and tightening the muscles. The doctor may also eliminate stretch marks and excess skin specifically below the navel, and there may be an option to treat a cesarean scar if present.
In some cases, liposuction and removal of excess skin in the abdominal area can be combined instead of undergoing a full tummy tuck operation. This may be beneficial in reducing the likelihood of noticeable scars and speeding up the recovery period, although the abdomen may not be well tightened.
To achieve excellent results, the doctor recommends maintaining a stable weight for at least 12 months before undergoing a tummy tuck. Additionally, quitting smoking is advised. The doctor will provide other instructions, including temporarily discontinuing certain medications to avoid potential complications.
Procedure
The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and involves the following steps:
A surgical incision is made along the bikini line.
Excess skin is tightened downward and then inward. The surgeon also removes any underlying fatty tissues.
Muscles and skin are tightened to cover the area, and the incision is closed in multiple layers using surgical sutures.
Often, a circular incision is made around the navel due to the amount of skin removed, without the need for navel removal.
Most women may experience discomfort for several days, but they often resume limited activities within a day. Plastic drainage tubes may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation.
Duration of Surgery: Approximately two and a half hours.
At-Home Recovery
Expect about two weeks of recovery at home.
Hospital Stay
Yes, you’ll need to stay in the hospital for one night.
Results
After the procedure, you’ll likely achieve satisfactory results, with a sculpted and more streamlined torso. Typically, the results of a tummy tuck are long-lasting, especially if you maintain a stable weight.
For more information about tummy tucks and body contouring, feel free to consult Dr. Mu’taz Al-Shakhanbeh