Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck Surgery)

Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing the issue of relaxed abdominal muscles, which occurs in both genders but is more commonly performed on women. This procedure is sought after to tighten the abdomen and remove excess skin, often following pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations. During the surgery, excess fat and sagging skin from the abdominal area are removed, resulting in a flatter and more toned abdomen.

Medically known as abdominoplasty, the procedure targets the fatty tissue and excess skin in the middle and lower abdomen. Abdominoplasty is not a treatment for obesity but focuses on strengthening the abdominal muscles. The procedure is primarily performed to eliminate sagging in the abdominal area caused by pregnancy or excessive weight loss or gain.

According to Op. Dr. Leyla Arvas, abdominoplasty is one of the most commonly performed aesthetic surgeries, ranking second in popularity. Depending on the amount of excess fat and the degree of sagging, the surgery is divided into two types: full abdominoplasty and mini abdominoplasty.

Who is Suitable for Abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty is not restricted to a specific age group; however, certain patient groups are more commonly suited for this procedure. Individuals who experience abdominal sagging due to multiple pregnancies, leading to fat accumulation around the belly button, are often candidates for the procedure. Furthermore, individuals with excess abdominal skin and sagging may also be considered suitable candidates for abdominoplasty.

It is important to note that abdominoplasty is not a weight loss method. Therefore, individuals with significant excess weight should not undergo the surgery until they have achieved a healthy weight. Abdominoplasty is also not recommended for individuals planning to become pregnant. The tightened abdominal muscles may return to their previous state after pregnancy.

How is Abdominoplasty Performed?

Abdominoplasty involves several steps. First, an incision is made within the bikini line and around the belly button. This allows for the removal of excess or stretched skin. The muscles above the belly button are tightened, and the belly button's position is adjusted.

If there is excess fat, liposuction is typically used to remove the fat from the abdominal area. The surgery concludes with sutures to close the incisions, and drains are placed under the skin to absorb excess fluid. The duration of the surgery can vary depending on the patient and the type of abdominoplasty being performed. The final stage involves tightening the abdominal muscles to achieve a smooth, flat appearance.

How Long Does Abdominoplasty Take?

The duration of the surgery varies depending on the patient’s abdominal size, fat level, and the extent of excess skin. On average, full abdominoplasty takes between 2 to 5 hours, while mini abdominoplasty can take 1 to 2 hours.

What Should Be Done Before and After Abdominoplasty?

Before the procedure, during the first consultation, the doctor will assess your general health and the condition of the skin around your abdomen. Based on this information, the most suitable surgical approach will be determined. Once the necessary evaluations are completed, the surgical process begins.

After the surgery, it is important to follow the doctor’s guidelines. Most patients can return to daily activities within one week. For the first month, wearing an abdominal corset is mandatory. Additionally, the surgical site should be kept protected to prevent damage to the stitches during the first week. Resuming sexual activity is generally safe after two weeks, assuming there is no pain.

What is the Recovery Process After Abdominoplasty?

After the surgery, the patient is typically monitored in the hospital for 1 to 2 days. On the second day, the patient can start walking slowly. In the early stages, patients may walk with a slight bend in their body, but this resolves quickly. Recovery time varies between individuals but generally takes 4 to 6 weeks for the body to recover. It may take 1 to 2 years for the scars to fade.

Patients are usually advised to wear an abdominal corset for the first month, which helps speed up recovery.

Is Abdominoplasty Risky?

Like any surgery, abdominoplasty carries certain risks. However, these risks are generally low, and the recovery is relatively quick. Rare complications such as fluid accumulation, bleeding, or infection can occur but can be easily managed with proper medical care.

Will There Be Scars After Abdominoplasty?

One of the most common concerns for patients considering abdominoplasty is whether there will be visible scars after the surgery. Typically, the incisions are made in the bikini line area, so the scars are discreet. Over the course of 1 to 2 years, the appearance of the scars will significantly improve. If the scars remain prominent, fractional laser treatments can help reduce their visibility.

Does Abdominoplasty Eliminate Stretch Marks?

Abdominoplasty can significantly reduce the appearance of stretch marks in the lower abdominal area. However, stretch marks in the upper abdomen are not affected by this procedure. Fractional laser treatment is recommended for preventing or treating stretch marks.

Is Abdominoplasty Permanent?

Abdominoplasty provides long-lasting results, as long as there is no significant weight gain. However, in women, pregnancy, and in men, excessive weight gain can lead to the re-loosening of abdominal muscles, causing sagging. In such cases, a second surgery may be required.

Can You Get Pregnant After Abdominoplasty?

It is possible to become pregnant after abdominoplasty, as the surgery does not affect fertility. However, it is recommended to undergo the procedure after having children for more permanent results. Becoming pregnant after the surgery can cause the abdominal muscles to loosen again, and additional surgery may be required. The optimal time to get pregnant after surgery should be determined by a doctor.

Can Men Undergo Abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty is also suitable for male patients. While women typically undergo the surgery due to post-pregnancy sagging, men often seek the procedure to address sagging caused by significant weight gain. Male patients who wish to achieve a toned and flat abdomen can benefit from abdominoplasty.

What are the Differences Between Full Abdominoplasty and Mini Abdominoplasty?

Full abdominoplasty involves the tightening of abdominal muscles from the hips to the upper abdomen. This procedure is more suitable for patients with extensive stretch marks, sagging, and fat accumulation. During this surgery, the belly button is repositioned, and a smooth abdominal appearance is achieved.

Mini abdominoplasty targets a smaller area, below the belly button. There is no repositioning of the belly button, and the procedure focuses on tightening the skin and removing excess fat from the lower abdomen.

What is the Recovery Like After Mini Abdominoplasty?

Mini abdominoplasty generally requires a shorter recovery period compared to full abdominoplasty. Patients typically stay in the hospital for one night and are advised to avoid heavy physical activity for one month. Mini abdominoplasty results in minimal scarring compared to full abdominoplasty, which typically leaves more noticeable scars.

What are the Benefits of Abdominoplasty?

• Reduced triglyceride levels in the blood.

• Decreased inflammatory cells, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

• Improved adoption of healthy lifestyles, with better eating habits and increased physical activity.

• Enhanced posture and overall body alignment.

• Boost in self-confidence and happiness.

Abdominoplasty or Liposuction?

The choice between abdominoplasty and liposuction depends on the amount of fat and the degree of sagging in the abdominal area. For patients with minimal deformities, liposuction might be a more suitable option. However, combining both procedures often results in more effective outcomes.