Genetics, multiple pregnancies, and substantial weight loss can all contribute to the persistence of fat deposits, loose skin, and stretch marks in the abdomen. Abdominoplasty, or ‘tummy tuck’, is a common cosmetic procedure designed to create a slimmer and firmer abdominal profile by removing excess abdominal fat/skin and restoring weakened abdominal muscles.
The procedure often takes two hours to complete. We perform this surgery using general anesthetic.
Abdominoplasty: Our plastic surgeons make an incision across the lower abdomen beneath the bikini line and trim away any loose or overhanging skin. They then tighten the muscles beneath the abdominal wall before lifting and reattaching the remaining skin.
It is important to realize that a tummy tuck is neither a shortcut to weight loss nor a substitute for a proper diet. If you are frustrated with persistent abdominal sagginess, are in good general health, and are a stable weight then this procedure may be for you.
Performed as an outpatient procedure, patients will experience surprisingly minimal discomfort that they can control with oral medication. Typically, small tubes our surgeons insert to ensure proper drainage are then removed within 3-5 days after surgery. Patients will experience some bruising and swelling after surgery, as well as a feeling of numbness around the incision line. Post-surgery, WSC will provide the patient with a tight fitting garment, similar to girdle. This garment decreases swelling and provides abdominal support for 4-6 weeks as the patient heals. The garment restricts movement, so the patient will be unable to stand fully upright.
Following a tummy tuck, most patients are back to work within one week but should avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for 6 weeks. Scarring is inevitable. At first, your scars may appear to worsen 3-6 months after surgery. Although the scars will never disappear completely, they should decrease in size and lighten in colour within one year. Once healed, they will be easily camouflaged under most clothing, iincluding swimwear.
We provide detailed preoperative and postoperative instructions at Western Surgery Centre.
Our goal is to provide you with the information required to ease the decision-making process.
We strongly encourage you to research the operation thoroughly. Here are some useful links to help you: