What is Abdominoplasty?

Problems such as excess fat, cracks and sagging in the abdominal region due to many different reasons can be treated with tummy tuck surgeries, thanks to the developments experienced today. The reason for these problems in the abdomen may be weight gain, births or genetics. People who have these problems may complain of skin wounds caused by excessive sweating, apart from appearance problems.

What is Abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck surgery, is a plastic surgery operation performed to improve the appearance of the abdomen. Surgery involves removing excess skin, fat and stretch marks in this area. The purpose of this surgery is to remove the excess skin on the abdomen, which is caused by pregnancy, losing excess weight and many other factors. Abdominoplasty is a suitable procedure for cases such as excess fat and skin around the belly button and weak lower abdomen. A tummy tuck is not a quick fix for weight loss. It is generally recommended to be applied to people with a healthy body mass index.

How is Abdominoplasty Performed?

Abdominoplasty operations vary from person to person depending on the sagging in the abdomen. Surgeries called total abdominoplasty take approximately 3-4 hours. The techniques to be used in the surgery are decided by the surgeon through detailed examinations and examinations. Before the operation, general anesthesia is applied to the patients. An incision of 10 cm is made from the lower part of the abdomen to the sides and around the belly button. Excess skin in this area is removed and the skin on the upper part of the navel is stretched towards the lower region. A new belly button is opened and brought to the appropriate position. After the operation, the incision line is sutured with aesthetic stitches to prevent an unpleasant appearance. After the operation, sagging and cracks caused by excess weight gain or pregnancy are eliminated and the patient is dressed in a suitable corset.

Preoperative Process

First of all, it is very important for the patient to talk to the surgeon and exchange information about the process. The surgeon may ask questions about the patient’s current or previous medical condition. It is important for the patient to share issues such as recent medication, surgeries or allergies. Most importantly, the patient should explain their expectations; what kind of appearance they want to gain with tummy tuck surgery, what is possible and what is not. In the pre-operative period, he should make sure that he understands the benefits and risks of the operation well.
In addition to these, the patient may need to consider some details before the surgery. Before tummy tuck surgery, it may be desirable to maintain a certain weight or the patient may need to avoid heavy diets. If the patient is overweight, the surgeon may ask the patient to lose weight before surgery. Medications that can increase bleeding, such as aspirin and herbal supplements, may need to be avoided for a while.

Post-Surgery Process

It may be necessary to stay away from work and other activities for a period of 4-6 weeks after the surgery. It may also be appropriate not to drive for a few weeks. In this regard, the recommendations of the surgeon must be strictly followed.
It may take up to 6 weeks to get the best results and fully recover from tummy tuck surgery. A corset must be worn to allow the abdominal area to heal properly. At the same time, forceful movements such as bending over quickly should be avoided in order not to force the stitches and cause the wound to open. After 6 weeks, the patient can stop wearing the corset and return to normal activities.