Whilst many people think of abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) as a weight loss procedure, this is only part of the story. A tummy tuck is actually more often performed on people who are happy with their weight, but unhappy about loose skin or muscle laxity around the abdomen. Loose skin and muscle in this area certainly can be caused by extensive weight loss but also by pregnancy. Not surprisingly, we see a lot of patients who have had multiple pregnancies, have completed their family and now want some help to get back into shape.
Am I the right candidate for a tummy tuck?
Abdominoplasty can be a great way to achieve a flatter, more contoured stomach and a narrower waist, giving you the confidence to wear what you want with pride – without feeling self-conscious about your tummy.
However, if you’re intending to lose a significant amount of weight or plan to get pregnant in the future, a tummy tuck may not be best for you right now. We always recommend waiting before considering abdominoplasty as having one too soon can lead to the need for a secondary corrective procedure. This is because the abdominal muscles which were tightened as part of the abdominoplasty are often separated during pregnancy and will require re-tightening following birth. Incidentally, it’s worth pointing out that if you struggle with stretch marks beneath the belly button, these may also be removed as part of the abdominoplasty.
What is involved in Abdominoplasty Treatment?
If you’re yearning for a tighter, more contoured abdominal area, there are two different kinds of abdominoplasty treatments (full abdominoplasty and partial abdominoplasty) which you may wish to consider alongside a variety of alternative treatments which may be better suited to you.
In your consultation, our surgeons will discuss with you your areas of concern and help to determine which treatment (or combination of treatments) will work best for you.
Full Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
During a full abdominoplasty, two incisions will be made: one just above the pubic area between the hip bones and another which frees the belly button from its surrounding tissue. The skin is separated from the abdominal wall from your pubic area up to your ribs and this is then lifted to reveal the vertical muscles in your abdomen.
We will tighten these muscles by carefully pulling them closer together and stitching them into their new position, resulting in a firmer abdominal wall and a narrower waistline.
The skin is then stretched down over the newly defined muscles and any excess skin is removed. A new hole is cut for the belly button, which is then carefully stitched in place. Finally, we will sew up the incisions and apply dressings. A temporary tube will be inserted to drain the excess fluid from beneath the skin.
The full treatment will usually take two to three hours under general anaesthetic and will require at least a one-night stay in a private suite at our practice in Spire Manchester Hospital.
Partial Abdominoplasty (Mini Tummy Tuck)
A partial abdominoplasty, also known as a mini tummy tuck, is a significantly reduced treatment involving much smaller incisions. The incision made between your hips will be a lot shorter and the skin will only be separated between the incision line and the navel.
Once the skin is separated, we will tighten the lower abdominal muscles by carefully stitching them closer together. Similar to the full abdominoplasty, we will stretch the layer of skin down over the newly defined muscles and remove any excess tissue before stitching the skin back into place and applying the dressings. Depending on the severity of your case, we may not always need to remove your belly button.
A mini tummy tuck typically takes one to two hours under general anaesthetic and will require at least a one-night stay at our practice.
What is the recovery time?
Depending on the extent of your surgery, you may be released from the hospital the day after your treatment, though most patients are typically required to stay for at least two nights.
For a few days after your treatment, your abdomen will feel swollen and you will experience some discomfort, though we will prescribe relevant pain relief medication to help treat this pain. It is common to struggle to stand straight initially, however you should start walking around as soon as possible to increase the blood flow.
For 2-3 weeks following your treatment, you will be required to wear a support garment and we will explain to you the best things you can do to independently maximise healing – including how to shower and change your dressings hygienically.
You won’t be able to drive for several weeks after your treatment, though most individuals will be able to return to work after a couple of weeks. However, this can vary and some patients will need up to a month to feel ready to return to usual activity.
Ultimately, a healthy lifestyle involving a balanced diet and regular exercise will help you achieve the best long-lasting results from your abdominoplasty.
Speak to us!
If you’re looking to gain a flatter stomach and slimmer waist in time for summer, then don’t hesitate to get in touch by completing the form below. We’ll be happy to book you in for a consultation with one of our experienced surgeons who can talk you through your options and answer all your questions.
