Abdominoplasty
The skin of the abdomen is stretched by pregnancy or weight gain. Following childbirth or significant loss of weight the stretched skin becomes lax and overhangs the pubic area. No amount of diet and exercise can overcome laxity of skin especially if it has stretch marks. In this situation the excess skin and fat has to be removed by surgery.
Why do patients seek an abdominoplasty?
Patients are embarrassed by appearance of the abdomen when the skin is stretched,
overhangs the tops of trousers and skirts, causes a bulge under fitted dresses
and is visible above and below bikini bottoms. Patients are also distressed
by prominent stretch marks and a stretched bellybutton which they find very
unappealing. They are inhibited about wearing swimsuits and bikinis and do
not like to take their children swimming or go out on the beach on holiday.
These problems can be corrected by an abdominoplasty.
What does an abdominoplasty involve?
Patients should not be on blood thinning medication such as aspirin or warfarin and ideally should not take nicotine in any form for six weeks before surgery. The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic and usually involves two nights in hospital. Plastic tube drains are inserted under the abdominal skin to remove any excess blood or fluid for the first 24 to 48 hours. These drains are then removed, the patient is able to have a shower and have the dressings changed before being discharged home. An appointment is made for removal of sutures a week following surgery and for a review in two weeks after surgery.
Are there any reasons for a patient not to have this procedure?
Patients who are actively smoking or on blood thinning medication such as aspirin or warfarin have a higher risk for postoperative complications such as bleeding, wound infections and delayed wound healing. It is advisable not to consume nicotine in any form for at least two weeks before this procedure and at least two to three weeks after. Medication such as aspirin or warfarin may need to be stopped if they are not absolutely essential at the appropriate time before surgery. This should be discussed with your Consultant and GP.
What is the normal postoperative course?
The abdomen feels tight for the first few days after the operation and patients are not able to stand fully erect. On the first postoperative day an elasticated abdominal binder is applied to the abdomen for support and gentle mobilisation is begun. By the second postoperative day most patients are mobile and discharged home.
It is advisable to have help around the house and with young children for the first couple of weeks after surgery. At the end of two weeks most patients are able to drive, carry light shopping and prepare light meals. At the end of four weeks patients are expected to be able to return to normal lifestyle including gym, sport and aerobics unless they have had tightening of the abdominal muscles or repair of an abdominal hernia at the same time as the abdominoplasty.
How much time do I need off work?
Most people are able to return to work which does not involve heavy lifting
in approximately two to three weeks after surgery. It may take up to six weeks
for some patients to return to normal work and leisure activities.
What are the complications of this procedure?
A very small percentage of patients who undergo a tummy tuck will have complications just like any other surgical procedure. These include bleedings, haematoma (blood clot under skin), seroma (fluid collection under skin) and infection. There can be delayed wound healing in the centre of the wound, slight asymmetry in the size and shape of the scar or the position of the bellybutton and a change in sensation over the abdomen.
Facts at a glance
Surgery time |
2 hours |
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Hospital stay |
2 nights |
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Possibly |
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Pre admission tests |
Yes |
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Reasonably mobile |
2 weeks |
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Washing |
2 days |
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Driving |
3 weeks |
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Sport & exercise including gym |
8 weeks |
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Full recovery |
8 weeks |
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Time off work |
2-3 week |
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Bras and garments |
Yes Abdominal binder |
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Long term issues |
May require scar management |