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Abdominoplasty, commonly known as Tummytuck, is a cosmetic and aesthetic procedure to remove excess lower abdominal skin and its attached layer of fat, with simultaneous tightening of the abdominal wall. This creates a flatter abdomen with elimination of loose skin, stretch marks and post surgical scars below the umbilicus (commonly vertical caesarian section scars). The protruberant appearance is likewise addressed by way of tightening of the muscle and fascial layers. Most patients who undergo this procedure are those who have had multiple pregnancies or those coming off major weight loss.
An informative and meaningful consultation with a certified cosmetic plastic surgeon is the initial step a patient will take if she is considering an abdominoplasty or tummytuck. The patient is expected to discuss all expectations with regards to looking and feeling better after surgery. She should keep in mind though that the desired result is basically reasonable improvement or enhancement and never unreasonable and unachievable “perfection”. Emotional stability in a potential patient is a prerequisite while reasonable expectation is a must. Having a “new” look from an abdominoplasty will never guarantee a new, healthy and successful life or even a happy and problem free marriage. It solely improves appearance and possibly helps boosts self confidence. This is realistically what a tummytuck may just do for you. How you handle the positive physical effects and gains of an abdominoplasty is actually up to you. It should be kept in mind that the objective of a tummytuck is a flatter abdomen devoid of most of the unsightly stretch marks and previous operative scar.
A straightforward abdominoplasty takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete however it may take longer if combined with other cosmetic plastic surgery procedures as liposuction or some other facial or body surgeries. The procedure may be safely done in an outpatient setting or on a hospital basis under general anesthesia. Once under general anesthesia one will be sleeping soundly all throughout surgery. At times it may be done under spinal or epidural anesthesia especially in hospital settings.
The incision is done from hip to hip just above the pubic area. Another incision is made around the belly button to free it from the abdominal skin. The abdominal skin and underlying fat is then elevated from the abdominal wall revealing the muscle and fascial layer to be tightened. After tightening, the excess skin is removed and the wounds are closed. The preserved belly button stalk is then brought out through a new hole in the abdominal skin. Liposuction is commonly performed in safe areas to give a better definition and form.
Closure of the incisions are meticulously done by your cosmetic plastic surgeon. Though scars are inevitable and are natural consequences of any incision or surgery, your cosmetic plastic surgeon will try his best to keep them inconspicuous and hardly noticeable as possible. Following surgery, dressings and bandage will be applied over the wounds and abdomen while closed suction drains will have to be maintained for a few days to facilitate drainage of any expected fluid.
All operations have their risks and cosmetic plastic surgeries are no exceptions. Bleeding, infection, fluid accumulations, vascular compromise, paresthesias, and healing problems are all possible. Patients are therefore properly cleared and screened by the surgical team while the patient wholeheartedly understands all the possibilities. Any pain or discomfort may be effectively controlled more often than not by the right oral medications. It is prudent however to inform your plastic surgeon or any staff member of any unusual and persistent problems. Swelling and bruising are common and expected and usually resolve in a few weeks. A sense of numbness and tightness may be present which eventually improves and subsides. Post abdominoplasty patients are instructed rest for at least a day and ordered to avoid any exertions. Sutures and drains will usually be out after a week while an abdominal binder shall have to maintained for weeks. Most patients do return to work after approximately 2-3 weeks. Optimal results are seen after about 3 months.
For the potential plastic surgery patient in general, it is strongly advised to consult with a certified plastic surgeon. Patients are strongly encouraged to ask around and be properly and thoroughly informed regarding the procedures they desire whether it be cosmetic or reconstructive in nature. Your certified cosmetic plastic surgeon will display adequate knowledge, skill and care prior, during and after surgery.
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Dr. Edwin Paul Magallona is a Board certified Plastic Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgeon based in Metro Manila, Philippines
For more information on Philippine Cosmetic Plastic Surgery..visit http://www.philippinecosmeticplasticsurgery.com or contact +639175006695/ (+632)5315692, 5315012
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