Tummy Tuck Basics (Abdominoplasty)

All loose skin and fatty tissue are removed through a large incision extending across the abdomen, usually from hip to hip. The muscles may also be tightened to give a firmer result. There is usually a scar around the navel if it is re-sited. The Surgeon will inform you of the exact nature of the scars at consultation.
This operation will be carried out under General Anaesthetic and will take approximately 3 hours. You are likely to have suction drains in place which will be removed prior to your discharge from hospital. You will wear a support corset for 6 weeks. Depending on your occupation, you will need 2-4 weeks off work to recover.

Is Abdominoplasty the right choice for me?
The final decision will be made between you and your Surgeon. However, the following reasons are typical of most people choosing to undertake this surgery:

• Unattractive loose skin on abdomen
• Stretch marks to abdomen – caused by multiple pregnancies or significant weight loss
• Old scars from previous surgery
• Inability to wear brief underwear/swimwear due to excess skin/fatty tissue
• Desire to have a flatter abdomen

Benefits of Abdominoplasty

• Increased overall self-confidence
• Increased self esteem
• Wider choice of underwear and swimwear
• Ability to wear more fitted clothing
• More youthful appearance
• No more hiding behing big tops / t-shirts

• Fluid retention under skin which can be treated after surgery
• Scarring – this may eventually not lie exactly in the confines of underwear or swimwear
• Bleeding
• Wound infection or delay in healing
• Numbness to the surrounding area - this should gradually diminish over several months
• Some stretch marks may not be removed if they lie outside the area of skin excised
• General Anaesthetic risks - including Deep Vein Thrombosis