Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Surgery

What is a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?

Abdominoplasty, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical method applied to repair the abdominal muscles, eliminate sagging in that area and create a taut look.

The muscle structure in the abdominal region may deform over time with the effect of pregnancy, rapid weight gain, fat removal operations and genetic reasons. Tummy tuck operation provides a corrective effect on sagging and cracked skin by improving the abdominal muscles.

Abdominoplasty is not a treatment method that can be applied by people who want to lose their excess weight. In fact, before tummy tuck surgery, the person should lose as much weight as possible. In addition, tummy tuck surgery is performed for functional purposes other than an aesthetic appearance. After a detailed examination of the patient, one of the full tummy tuck or mini tummy tuck procedures is performed depending on the condition of the abdomen.

How is Abdominoplasty Performed?

Patients who want to have tummy tuck surgery are examined in detail by physicians, and ‘full tummy tuck’ or ‘mini tummy tuck’ surgery is planned in line with their needs.

Abdominoplasty operations are performed under general anesthesia. An incision is made in the lower part of the abdomen, the shape and length of the incision vary according to the amount of skin. The cut skin is lifted and the underlying weakened abdominal muscles are stretched/repaired. As a final step, the incisions are closed with sutures, skin adhesives, clips and tapes.

Mini Tummy Tuck:

Mini tummy tuck surgery, which is one of the types of Abdominoplasty; It allows a limited area of the abdomen to be repaired. The steps are the same in both stretching surgeries. In mini tummy tuck, the lower abdomen is targeted below the belly button. The surgery takes about 1-2 hours and the recovery process is faster.

Full Abdominoplasty:

A full tummy tuck is an operation that covers the entire abdomen. It is quite comprehensive and complex compared to the mini tummy tuck procedure. It works by targeting both the lower and upper abdomen, in addition, while the muscles are tightened in the full tummy tuck operation, the removal of excess fat tissue and region shaping are also performed. This process takes 2-4 hours on average.

How Long Does Abdominoplasty Take?

The duration of the operation varies according to the treatment plan of the patient. Full tummy tuck procedures are completed in approximately 2-4 hours, and mini tummy tuck procedures are completed within 1-2 hours. If a more extensive surgery is required and liposuction will be applied before the stretching procedure, this time will increase even more.

Candidates Suitable for Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty is recommended for people who have weight that does not respond to diet and exercise, but who have cracks and sagging in that area. In order to perform the surgery, the patient must be over 18 years old and have a body mass index below 30. Abdominoplasty is a body shaping procedure and can be performed after sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass procedures. Although it is frequently preferred by postpartum women, it is applied to all men and women who experience body deformation. In addition, in order for the abdominoplasty surgery to be successful, it is important that the patient does not have a chronic illness and can handle anesthesia.

Preparation Before Abdominoplasty

In the first examination before abdominoplasty, the patient’s health status, sagging in the abdomen, amount of fat and skin structure are examined. It is important that you notify the doctor during the examination if you have past diseases, surgeries or diseases that are currently under treatment. The patient’s wishes and expectations are discussed and an appropriate treatment plan is drawn up. During the operation period, the patient should avoid the sun, do not follow a strict regimen, and take a break if smoking and drinking alcohol.

Recovery Process After Abdominoplasty

After tummy tuck surgery, the patient is hospitalized for 1-2 days. There may be pain and swelling in the following days, this is normal and will pass over time with the help of medications. The use of corsets is essential to reduce swelling and maintain body shape. In order not to strain the abdominal muscles, first start in an oblique position and gradually walk upright. After discharge, lying down for a week is recommended, and the patient can return to his daily life within 2-3 weeks. After the 6th week, daily exercises can be planned, provided that abdominal exercises and weight are avoided.
At the end of 12-14 weeks, healing occurs and visible results begin to be obtained.

A healthy diet and exercise routine is very important after tummy tuck surgery. In order to be successful in the long term, the patient needs to change his lifestyle.