In cases where liposuction is not enough to remove the excess fat on the lower abdomen, and the loose skin must also be removed, we perform an abdominoplasty or what is commonly known as a tummy tuck. This procedure flattens your abdomen by removing extra fat and skin, and tightening muscles in your abdominal wall.
How is a tummy tuck performed?
During the procedure the surplus of fat and skin will be removed from the abdomen, infact it is also possible to tighten weakened abdominal muscles while doing so. The incision is made on the bikini line horizontally, however the belly button must also be incised around in most cases. The skin and tissue is then dissected upwards towards the arch of the lower ribs, it is tightened and the excess is removed. The belly button is also positioned and fastened to its new spot. A drain is then placed in the wound for two days following surgery and the line of incision eventually remains as a soft, paper thin, whiteish scar. The stitches are removed 2 weeks following the procedures, but the complete healing process takes 6 months to a year.
Complications are the same as other surgical procedures, bruising, bleeding and infection may occur. Rarely, in some extreme cases (especially with vast amounts of fat tissue) inadequate wound healing may be experienced. A special tight, belt-like bandaging must be worn for 4 to 6 weeks.