As we gain weight, either through puberty, pregnancy or lifestyle choices our skin stretches to accommodate our new shape. Rapid weight gain can cause the skin to develop stretch marks, and equally, if you lose weight too quickly, it can leave you with loose skin. If you’re extremely lucky your skin will snap back as it once was, but if you’re part of the 99% who doesn’t have phenomenal skin elasticity you may be left with loose skin on your tummy, as well as other areas including thighs and arms.
Feeling self-conscious about your figure can make it really difficult to be confident in yourself and can even stop you wearing outfits you’d love to look good in. Having a firm, flat stomach can make a huge difference to the way you feel and when it’s not possible to achieve this through diet and exercise alone, Tummy Tuck surgery can be the right option.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as Abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen. The tummy tuck is also effective for repairing stretched and weakened abdominal muscles. This procedure helps our patients have a more attractive profile and enjoy a smooth, flat stomach.
Loose skin is often the result of aging, genetics, a previous surgery, fluctuations in weight or pregnancy. In fact, a tummy tuck is a common procedure included in a mommy makeover. Mommy makeovers are cosmetic procedures designed to help mothers obtain their pre-baby body. A tummy tuck may even help in the removal of stretch-marked skin.
A tummy tuck is a great procedure for healthy individuals if dieting and exercise are just not helping. An abdominoplasty often requires an incision from hip to hip just above the pubic hairline. Through this incision, the surgeon will be able to access your abdominal wall and remove unnecessary skin and tissue. The result will be a slimmer, more smooth appearance.
There are basically five main types of abdominoplasty in terms of the way the anatomical areas are addressed and re-contoured. Each type of abdominoplasty can be performed using different technical variations as per our surgeons preferences. Liposuction, when indicated, can be performed simultaneously with any of the below procedures for even greater results.
The five types of abdominoplasty are:
- Standard Abdominoplasty with umbilical re-positioning
- Standard Abdominoplasty with a “floated umbilicus”
- Mini Abdominoplasty
- Extended Abdominoplasty
- Circumferential Abdominoplasty
The Procedure
The details of your surgery will be planned out during your consultation and may differ from the summary below.
An abdominoplasty is performed under general anesthesia and may take a few hours. Liposuction is often used alongside a tummy tuck to remove excess fat deposits and improve the end results.
Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the surgeon will apply an incision along the lower abdomen. Through this incision, excess saggy skin will be excised. The muscles of the abdominal wall will be repaired and tightened. Once the midsection has been artfully sculpted, the incision will be closed and bandaged. You will be taken to a recovery room where you will be monitored until you are awake.