ABDOMINOPLASTY

Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a ‘tummy tuck’, is a major cosmetic surgical procedure whereby excess fat and skin are removed to achieve a flatter, more toned abdominal area. The underlying muscles in the abdominal wall are tightened in the process. This may be realised by means of a full or mini (partial) tummy tuck.

Many women have gone off to the gym and embarked on several diets to tighten their tummies but without success. Abdominoplasty is a body sculpting procedure which presents an opportunity to significantly improve their self-image and confidence.

Dr Slabbert will take time to explain the procedure to you in a caring and compassionate manner to help you make an informed decision. This process will also allow him to understand your expectations and the reasons behind you wanting this type of surgery.

However, it is not intended for weight loss.

Reasons for choosing a tummy tuck may include the following:

• Your may have lost a significant amount of weight causing the skin on your abdomen to be very loose
• Pregnancies can have a detrimental affect causing your stomach muscles and skin to to become flabby and loose
• If you are older your skin may have lost it's natural elasticity and your tummy may be a little larger than you want.

However, if you are planning another pregnancy or intending to lose a lot of weight, abdominoplasty should be delayed until after these events. Ideally, you will be at a consistent weight, in good physical condition and a non-smoker.

Dr Slabbert will examine you, and discuss your current state of health. He needs to know if you have any conditions such as lupus, diabetes, heart problems or infection. It is fundamental that there is full disclosure.

Dr Slabbert will proceed to make two incisions: one from your hipbone on one side, to the other side (just above the pubic area), and another incision around your belly button, to free it from the surrounding tissue. Dr Slabbert will then separate the skin from the abdominal muscles and pull the muscles together and stitch them into place. The tightened muscles will then be covered by stretching the separated skin flap over them, and the excess skin will be removed. The belly button will be reattached in the most natural position. A temporary drainage tube will be inserted to drain excess fluid which would otherwise exacerbate swelling and delay healing.

The procedure will then be finished off by closing and suturing up the incisions and covering the wounds with gauze and bandages.

With a partial, or mini tummy tuck, the procedure is less invasive and requires shorter incisions, producing less scarring. This type of surgery is indicated in patients who have fat in the lower part of their abdomen.

Full tummy tuck surgery usually lasts 2 - 5 hours, whilst a partial tummy tuck takes an hour or two.

Abdominoplasty requires a general anaesthetic.

You should be prepared for a hospital stay of at least one night.

Dr Slabbert will wrap your abdomen with elastic bandage or a compression garment to support your abdominal area during the first 4 weeks of recovery. His nursing team will ensure that you are as comfortable as possible and will advise you on how best to shower and look after your dressings and wounds.

They will also inform you on which types of stitches were used and whether and when you would need to remove them. Pain medication and possibly sleeping tablets, will be administered. Drainage pipes are generally removed after 2 or 3 days.

The first few days will be the most uncomfortable and although you likely won’t be able to stand up straight, you will be encouraged to walk around as soon after the surgery as possible. You may be sore for several weeks, during which time you should limit physical activity. Do not over exert yourself as bleeding may occur which will worsen swelling. Avoid sexual activity during the first few weeks.

Abdominoplasty leaves significant scarring which with diminish in time, but will not disappear completely. Dr Slabbert will advise you on the best possible scar management regimen.