Tummy Tuck also known as abdominoplasty is applied to improve sagging in the abdomen area, remove excess fat and strengthen the abdominal muscles. This surgery can be combined with operations such as liposuction and breast surgeries.
The operation corrects the body silhouette; It eliminates the belly protrusion that spoils the stance of the clothes, such as dresses, skirts and trousers. Provides a flat stomach, and outlines the waistline. It is performed with the help of an incision made under the navel and over the pubic region. If it is necessary to stretch the upper abdomen, the belly button is repositioned.
After the operation, the person’s body measurements decrease by 1-2 sizes. Tightening the skin and abdominal muscles also brings some weight loss.
Who Can Undergo Tummy Tuck?
Those who cannot get rid of the fat in the abdominal region despite applying a suitable diet and exercise program can be treated with this surgery.
Patients with weak abdominal muscles, or sagging the abdomen may also be suitable candidates for this operation.
It is also preferred after multiple pregnancies or caesarean delivery. In order for this surgery to be performed, the patient should not have a chronic illness and should not have a problem that would interfere with anesthesia.
Diabetes or other problems preventing blood clotting pose a risk for aesthetic operations such as tummy tuck.
Before Tummy Tuck
Alcohol and smoking should be stopped 2 weeks before the operation; Physician’s instructions should be followed for discontinuation of specific medication and vitamin supplements. It is recommended to postpone the surgery in case of flu, cold or another disease. Again, activities such as low-calorie diets, sunbathing and excessive exercise should be avoided during the waiting period before surgery.
How is Tummy Tuck Performed?
In general tummy tuck surgery, the incision is placed on the pubic region. A second incision is made in addition to this incision made between the two hip bones. This breaks the relationship between the navel and other tissues. In mini tummy tuck surgery, the location of the belly button does not change. However, the position of the belly button can be changed in the general tummy tuck operation.
The skin tissue is stretched towards the ribs and a large surface is lifted from its location.
Then the uncovered abdominal muscles are brought together and shaped. It is then stitched. The skin on the upper surface is pulled down and stretched.
The navel is placed in place and sutured. Stitches are closed with dressing. Thin tubes known as drains are placed under the skin. These prevent edema and blood accumulation at the surgical site.
While mini tummy tuck surgery usually takes 1-2 hours, full tummy tuck surgery takes 2-5 hours on average. This operation is usually performed under general anesthesia. Mini tummy tuck surgeries can sometimes be performed with local anesthesia.
After Tummy Tuck
- The length of stay in the hospital varies from a few hours to 1 or 3 days. Pain and swelling are considered normal, painkillers can be used for this.
- The drains are removed a few days after the operation, the stitches are removed after 1-3 weeks.
- In the first week, you should avoid coughing, straining and severe sneezing as much as possible. These can damage seams that are still in the boiling phase.
- In the first month, you should avoid smoking and heavy sports.
- It is recommended to wear a special corset for 1 month. This makes it easier for your abdominal area to reach the desired form.
- After tummy tuck surgery a scar remains. But it becomes invisible within 9-12 months.
- You should maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly in order to maintain the successful result obtained through surgery. Ideal weight should be maintained; Excessive weight gain should be avoided.
- If you get pregnant and give birth after the surgery, problems such as cracking, loosening and sagging in the abdomen may recur.
