We’ve come a long way with abdominals since the beginning of the procedure for wound healing in the 1800s. Back then, patients wouldn’t even get a belly button with their result. Today, abdominoplasty, or abdominoplasty, is designed to give a flatter and more toned waist, restore abdominal muscles and remove excess skin. Here, we explore what to expect before, during and after the popular body contouring surgery.
What are the benefits of abdominoplasty?
A tummy tuck will help achieve a natural-looking flat stomach and correct the excess skin and “caffeine” bellies that many women experience as they age. “In addition to achieving a flatter stomach, it addresses rectus ablation, which includes correcting stomach bulges caused by abdominal wall injuries during pregnancy or weight gain,” says the New York plastic surgeon. Brad Gandolfi, MD. “Fat removed through liposuction can also be used to enhance contour in other areas of the body, such as the breasts or hips through a transfer procedure.”
Before the procedure
Before having a tummy tuck, it is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations. “During the initial consultation, your surgeon will review your medical history, assess your abdominal area, and answer any concerns or questions you may have,” says Denver plastic surgeon Philippe A. Capraro, MD .
How is abdominoplasty performed?
A tummy tuck is usually performed under general anesthesia and may take several hours to complete. Dr. Capraro says pregnancy and weight gain can cause the fascia to loosen, causing the muscles to weaken and separate. “Other than surgery, there’s nothing you can do to get those abdominal muscles back to how they were. It’s not possible, no matter how critical you are,” he says.
The surgery involves tightening the fascia, which is the connective tissue that supports the abdominal muscles. The fascia is sutured tightly to join the muscles together, effectively restoring their strength and structure. “I use a three-layer closure technique to ensure a secure and tight closure of the fascia,” he says, comparing the result to a trampoline. “Once those abs tighten up, you’ll be able to bounce a quarter off of them.” It further highlights the role of liposuction during the procedure, which helps remove excess fat that is resistant to diet and exercise.
The type of liposuction performed can also help improve results, says Pittsburgh plastic surgeon Brian Vassar Heil, MD. “I prefer ultrasound liposuction, a technique that liquefies and emulsifies fat using high-energy sound waves,” she explains. “This method not only removes excess fat, but also causes some skin tightening, giving patients more sculpted and contoured results.”
What is a mini tummy tuck?
For those who have a small amount of skin to remove and do not need muscle tightening, a partial tummy tuck, better known as a mini tummy tuck, can help address excess skin below the belly button alone. Mini tummy tucks are often performed as an outpatient surgery and require less downtime for recovery.
What is drainless abdominoplasty?
Drains help rid the body of natural fluid build-up between the abdominal wall and the newly lifted tissue, but they can be cumbersome during recovery and sometimes lead to infection. Dr. Gandolfi reveals that the drainless abdominoplasty technique aims to minimize discomfort and enhance healing by reducing disruption of lymphatic channels and preserving underlying structures. “With this technique I use fewer sutures and there is minimal tissue burning, resulting in a reduced need for drains and improved patient comfort.”
What is the recovery process like after a tummy tuck?
The recovery period of the abdomen will last several weeks. During recovery, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by the surgeon. It is important to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including wearing compression garments and avoiding strenuous activities. “By the second week, all the major obstacles are usually over and most people start to feel significantly better,” adds Dr. Gadolfi. “Some activities may still be restricted, but all humps above the containment area have been lifted.”
By four weeks, patients can return to exercise and wear garments designed to control swelling. In the first few months the swelling will gradually subside, starting high and ending above the incision.
How long does it take for the results of a full tummy tuck to be visible?
Dr. Capraro states that post-op appointments are necessary to monitor progress and remove any stitches. These appointments allow the surgeon to ensure proper healing and address any concerns the patient may have. “At the one-year mark, your tummy should be completely healed and the results visible. The inflammation should be gone and the scar should have faded,” adds the surgeon.
Although the results can be life-changing, it is important to note that they must be maintained. “A tummy tuck is designed to be permanent,” says Dr. Gandolfi. “Although certain factors such as ageing, pregnancy and weight fluctuation could alter the results, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to ensure the longevity of your investment.”
