Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty

TUMMY TUCK (ABDOMINOPLASTY)

Sometimes even with a rigorous diet and exercise regime you cannot achieve the flat and firm abdominal contours that you desire.

Several changes occur during ageing and after life events such as pregnancy and weight fluctuation that may result in permanent and undesirable changes to your physique. Abdominal muscles may have stretched and weakened and an accumulation of stubborn fat deposits and excess loose skin in the abdominal region may have occurred which are typically not responsive to diet or exercise.

DOWNLOAD DR WATTS’ GUIDE TO ABDOMINOPLASTY

Guide To Abdominoplasty

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WHAT IS AN ABDOMINOPLASTY

An Abdominoplasty is designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area, while also tightening the underlying muscles. This procedure may be particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, post-pregnancy changes, or ageing that results in loose, excess skin and weakened abdominal muscles. By removing excess tissue and tightening the abdominal wall, abdominoplasty can create a firmer and more toned appearance in the midsection.

In some cases, abdominoplasty can also help alleviate certain functional issues, such as skin irritation caused by excess folds or muscle separation (diastasis recti), which can occur after pregnancy.

A Partial Abdominoplasty involves a smaller incision may be more appropriate for those patients with a small amount of excess skin and predominantly lower abdominal muscle wall laxity.

To achieve a more significant result Dr Watts may use liposuction to not only target areas of stubborn fat but to also shape body contours. His combined attention to detail and skill help optimise results.

TYPES OF ABDOMINOPLASTY PROCEDURES

Dr. Guy Watts has experience with several types of Abdominoplasty procedures, each tailored to meet the unique needs and goals of the patient:

1. Full Abdominoplasty: This is the most complex form of Abdominoplasty and may be recommended for patients who require extensive changes to their abdomen area. The procedure involves an incision across the lower abdomen from hip to hip and around the navel. It addresses the entire abdominal area, removing excess skin and fat and tightening the abdominal muscles.
2. Partial Abdominoplasty: This may be suited for patients who have a lesser degree of skin laxity and muscle weakness, this procedure focuses on the lower abdomen. It involves a smaller incision and is not as extensive than a Full Abdominoplasty.
3. Extended Abdominoplasty: This procedure is similar to a Full Abdominoplasty but includes additional skin and fat removal from the sides of the abdomen and the lower back. It may be recommended for patients who have experienced significant weight loss and have excess skin extending around the hips.
4. Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty: This type of Abdominoplasty may be particularly suited for patients who have lost a massive amount of weight. It involves a vertical incision along with the usual horizontal incision, allowing for the removal of excess skin both vertically and horizontally.

Each of these procedures is designed to address specific concerns and will be recommended based on the patient’s individual needs and desired outcomes. Dr. Watts works closely with each patient to determine the most appropriate type of Abdominoplasty to achieve desired results.

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR THE SURGERY?

A good candidate for Abdominoplasty is typically someone who is in good overall health but is concerned about excess skin or fat in the abdominal area that has not reduced with diet and exercise. Good candidates should have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery. Specific criteria include:

• Physical Health: Individuals should be in good physical health so they can heal properly and reduce the risk of complications. Chronic medical conditions should be well-managed.
• Stable Weight: Candidates should be at or near their ideal weight. Significant weight fluctuations after the surgery can affect the results.
• Non-smokers: Smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications. It’s advised that patients quit smoking several months before and after the surgery.
• Not Planning Future Pregnancies: Since pregnancy can stretch the skin and muscles that Abdominoplasty aims to tighten, it is recommended for women who have completed their families.

Dr. Watts conducts a thorough consultation to assess whether Abdominoplasty is suitable for you, considering your health, medical history, and aesthetic goals.

WHAT CAN AN ABDOMINOPLASTY DO FOR ME?

Abdominoplasty can offer a range of potential benefits:

• Abdominal Contour: The surgery removes excess skin and fat and tightens the abdominal muscles, resulting in a flatter, more toned stomach.
• Reduction of Stretch Marks: While not a primary goal, the removal of excess skin can reduce the appearance of stretch marks, particularly those located below the navel.
• Comfort: Excess abdominal skin can cause discomfort and skin irritation. Removing this skin can alleviate these issues.
• Better Posture: Tightening of the abdominal muscles can help individuals posture and alleviate some types of back pain caused by weakened abdominal muscles.

It’s important to note that while Abdominoplasty can significantly alter the appearance of the abdomen, it is not a substitute for weight loss or a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Watts makes sure that patients have realistic expectations and understand that maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle post-surgery is crucial for lasting results.

HOW IS THE SURGERY PERFORMED?

Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia and takes between two to five hours, depending on the extent of the surgery. Dr. Watts’ approach to Abdominoplasty involves the following steps:

• Incision: For a Full Abdominoplasty, an incision is made just above the pubic hairline, extending from hip to hip. The shape and length of the incision is determined by the amount of excess skin. In a Partial Abdominoplasty, the incision is shorter, and for an Extended Abdominoplasty, it extends around the flanks onto the lower back.
• Repairing the Muscles: The abdominal muscles are tightened and repaired if they have become stretched out or separated, a condition known as diastasis recti.
• Removing Excess Skin and Fat: Excess skin and fat are removed from the abdominal area. Liposuction may also be used to contour the abdomen and surrounding areas.
• Repositioning the Navel: In a Full Abdominoplasty, the navel will be repositioned to fit the newly shaped abdomen.
• Closing the Incisions: The incisions are closed with sutures, and dressings are applied. In some cases, small drains may be placed to remove excess fluid.

RECOVERY AFTER ABDOMINOPLASTY

Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual’s health. Generally, patients can expect:

• Rest: It’s crucial to rest and avoid strenuous activities for the first few weeks. Most patients take around two weeks off work.
• Support Garments: A compression garment is usually worn for several weeks to reduce swelling and support the healing abdomen.
• Managing Discomfort: Pain, swelling, and bruising are common, and prescribed pain relief can be used to manage discomfort.
• Follow-up Appointments: Patients will have follow-up appointments with Dr. Watts to monitor their recovery and remove any drains or sutures.
• Gradual Return to Activities: Patients can gradually resume light activities and eventually return to more strenuous exercise after six weeks or as advised by Dr. Watts.

It’s important for patients to follow all post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Watts to optimise recovery.

RISKS OF ABDOMINOPLASTY

As with any surgical procedure, Abdominoplasty carries certain risks. Dr. Watts fully informs all patients about potential complications, which may include:

• Anaesthesia Risks: As with any procedure requiring general anaesthesia, there are risks such as allergic reactions and respiratory issues.
• Bleeding and Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of bleeding and infection, which can be managed with proper care and medication.
• Scarring: Scarring is an inevitable part of Abdominoplasty, but Dr. Watts strives to strategically place incisions to reduce visible scarring.
• Fluid Accumulation (Seroma): Temporary fluid accumulation under the skin can occur, which may need to be drained.
• Numbness or Changes in Skin Sensation: Temporary numbness in the abdominal area is common, but sensation typically returns over time. In rare cases it may be permanent.
• Poor Wound Healing: This can result in more noticeable scars or the need for additional surgery.
• Asymmetry or Unsatisfactory Aesthetic Result: There may be asymmetry or dissatisfaction with the appearance, which might require further surgery.

Dr. Watts discusses these risks in detail during the consultation process and provides comprehensive pre- and post-operative care to reduce complications.

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PLEASE TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.