What is Abdominoplasty?
The tummy tuck surgery or “abdominoplasty” procedure involves removing excess skin and fat tissue that causes sagging in the abdominal area. This surgery is generally preferred by those who want to correct aesthetic problems that occur due to situations such as post-pregnancy, rapid weight loss, or aging or to provide solutions to certain health problems.
What are the Types of Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty surgery can be performed in different ways, often depending on the scope of the surgery and the patient’s needs. Here are some commonly known types of Abdominoplasty:
Full Abdominoplasty:
It is the most common type of tummy tuck surgery. Incisions are usually made below the bikini line. The skin and fat tissue around the navel are removed, the abdominal muscles are tightened, and the belly area is reshaped. The anterior abdominal wall muscles, known as the rectus muscles, loosen after pregnancy and excessive weight gain. In Full Abdominoplasty surgery, the anterior abdominal wall muscles are also tightened.
Mini Tummy Tuck (Mini Abdominoplasti):
A mini tummy tuck has a smaller scope than a full tummy tuck. It usually targets only the lower abdomen and requires a smaller incision. The location of the belly button is not changed.
Liposuction with Tummy Tuck (Liposuction with Abdominoplasty):
This surgery includes liposuction at the same time as the tummy tuck. It aims to absorb excess fat tissue in the abdomen and waist area and tighten the skin.
Each type of tummy tuck can be tailored to the patient’s situation and wishes. The type of surgery is determined according to the surgeon’s evaluation and the patient’s expectations. Therefore, a detailed assessment by a specialist plastic surgeon is essential.
How is Abdominoplasty Performed?
Abdominoplasty surgery takes place under general anesthesia, and the surgeon makes incisions below the bikini line. After excess skin and fatty tissue are removed, the abdominal muscles are tightened, and the cut areas are closed with hidden stitches. Thus, the patient’s abdominal area becomes more aesthetic and tight. The stitches are aesthetically pleasing, invisible from the outside, and dissolve independently over time.
Abdominoplasty surgery can take between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the scope of the surgery. A more uncomplicated surgery performed only to correct sagging in the lower abdomen may take a short time. In contrast, a more comprehensive intervention may take longer.
Abdominoplasty and Liposuction
Abdominoplasty and liposuction can be performed together. This combination aims to simultaneously solve the problems of sagging, excess skin, fat accumulation, and body contour in the patient’s abdominal area. Combining these two procedures may offer a more comprehensive solution to the patient’s aesthetic goals.
Abdominoplasty is generally a surgical procedure to correct sagging in the abdominal area. The abdominal muscles are tightened, excess skin is removed, and the abdominal area gains a tighter appearance. Liposuction aims to remove excess fat accumulation in certain areas of the body. When combined with tummy tuck surgery, this procedure can help create better contours, especially in certain regions.
Recovery Process After Abdominoplasty Surgery
The recovery period after tummy tuck surgery varies depending on the patient’s general health condition, the scope of the surgery, and the techniques used. However, it generally includes the following processes:
First days and first week:
Patients are usually kept under observation in the hospital for the first two days after surgery. Prescribed medications may be given for pain control. Bed rest and limited movement are recommended in the first days. Swellings and mild pain are expected during this period.
First Few Weeks:
After the patient is discharged home, the recovery process continues at home. During this period, physical activities are restricted, heavy lifting is avoided, and corsets recommended by the doctor should be used. Controls at regular intervals are essential.
After the First Two Weeks:
Patients return to their daily activities, but strenuous exercises and heavy lifting should be avoided.
Late Period:
Swelling subsides over time, but complete healing usually takes six months to a year. During this period, the visibility of postoperative scars is expected to decrease.
It is important for the patient to follow his doctor’s instructions during the recovery process. The doctor evaluates the recovery process during check-ups and guides the patient on which activities he can perform and when.
Should a corset be used after tummy tuck surgery?
After Abdominoplasty, patients are generally advised to use a medical corset. This application helps optimize the effects of surgery. The corset provides additional support to the abdominal area and supports the abdominal muscles and stitches after surgery. Additionally, it has a swelling-reducing effect, making the healing process more comfortable. Corset used to improve aesthetic results can help maximize the effects of surgery.
It is important to follow your surgeon’s recommendations, continue using the corset for the appropriate period, and ensure that it is worn correctly. These precautions contribute to a comfortable recovery process after surgery. The corset should be used for 4-6 weeks after tummy tuck surgery.
Can You Get Pregnant After Abdominoplasty?
It is possible to become pregnant after tummy tuck surgery; However, since the purpose of the surgery is to combat sagging and excess skin in the abdominal area, there may be changes in these areas after pregnancy. Pregnancy is a condition that can cause tension on the abdominal muscles and skin.
Pregnancy after surgery can affect the aesthetic adjustments in the abdominal area and can often affect the permanence of the surgery. The tension in the abdominal muscles and skin during pregnancy may cause changes in the results obtained after surgery. However, this may vary from person to person, and the degree of changes in the abdominal area after pregnancy may differ. Additionally, before planning a pregnancy, it is recommended that you complete the postoperative recovery process and wait for a suitable time for a healthy pregnancy.
Will There Be Any Scars After Abdominoplasty?
Some scars occur after tummy tuck surgery. These scars generally vary depending on the areas where the surgical intervention was performed. For example, incisions made inside underwear during surgery reduce the visibility of scars. In addition, the incisions made on the edge of the navel are usually unnoticed as they will remain in the umbilicus. The visibility of all scars will be significantly reduced by the end of the first year.
Abdominoplasty Surgery Prices
If you would like to get detailed information about Abdominoplasty and learn more about pricing, we recommend that you contact our experienced team.
