Abdominoplasty Surgery
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. It may also involve tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles to create a firmer and more proportionate abdominal contour.
The procedure may be performed as a full or partial abdominoplasty, depending on the amount and location of excess skin and fat, the condition of the abdominal muscles, and the surgeon’s assessment. The incision is generally placed just above the pubic area, and its length varies according to each individual’s condition.
Who May Be Suitable for Abdominoplasty?
This procedure may be suitable for individuals who are in good overall health and have concerns such as:
- Loose or sagging abdominal skin, or localized fat that has not improved with diet and exercise
- Separated or weakened abdominal muscles following pregnancy
- Excess skin after significant weight loss
- A relatively stable body weight
- Realistic expectations regarding scarring and the recovery period
Individuals planning to lose a significant amount of weight or become pregnant in the future should discuss the appropriate timing of surgery with their doctor, as weight changes and pregnancy may affect the surgical results.
Types of Abdominoplasty
Full Abdominoplasty
The surgeon makes an incision above the pubic area and separates the skin and fatty tissue from the abdominal wall. The abdominal muscles may then be tightened, excess skin removed, and the navel repositioned as needed. A temporary drainage tube may be placed after surgery to help remove excess fluid.
Partial Abdominoplasty
A partial or mini abdominoplasty may be suitable for individuals with a smaller amount of excess skin or fat, particularly below the navel. The incision is generally shorter, and repositioning of the navel may not be necessary. The most appropriate technique depends on each individual’s abdominal structure and condition.
Preparation Before Surgery
Before surgery, the doctor will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and assess your overall readiness for the procedure. You should inform the medical team about any underlying health conditions, previous surgeries, regular medications, dietary supplements, and known allergies.
Smoking should be stopped for the period recommended by the doctor, as it may interfere with blood circulation, delay wound healing, and increase the risk of complications. Rapid or extreme weight loss should also be avoided before surgery.
You should arrange for someone to take you home after the procedure and, when necessary, assist you during the first few days of recovery.
Postoperative Care
After surgery, you may experience swelling, tightness, discomfort, numbness, or bruising around the abdominal area. These symptoms usually improve gradually. The doctor may recommend wearing an abdominal support garment to reduce swelling and support the surgical area.
During the early recovery period, you may need to walk with your body slightly bent forward to reduce tension on the incision. Gentle movement and walking should begin as advised by the doctor to support blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
Heavy lifting, strenuous activities, excessive bending, and intense exercise should generally be avoided for approximately four to six weeks. The recovery period and the time required before returning to work vary depending on the extent of surgery, the nature of your work, and your individual healing process.
Possible Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, abdominoplasty may involve certain risks, including:
- Bleeding or blood accumulation beneath the skin
- Infection
- Delayed wound healing or wound separation
- Fluid accumulation beneath the skin
- Numbness or changes in sensation around the abdomen
- Raised, widened, or darkened scars
- Blood clots
- Asymmetry of the abdomen or incision line
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rapidly increasing swelling, heavy bleeding, unusual or severe pain, redness or warmth around the wound, fever, difficulty breathing, or chest pain.
Expected Results
As postoperative swelling gradually subsides, the abdomen will begin to appear flatter and firmer. The scar may be noticeable during the early stages of healing but usually becomes flatter and lighter over time. Scar maturation may take one year or longer, and the scar will not disappear completely.
For health consultations and further information about current promotions, please contact:
LINE: https://lin.ee/3dsW7BM
Facebook Page: TRIA Medical Wellness Center
Please contact our staff to make an appointment before receiving the service.Tel. 02-129-5500
