Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is surgery to remove loose or excess skin and fat from the lower tummy. It is a commonly requested procedure after pregnancy if the skin hasn’t rebounded. The surgery results in a scar on the tummy and around the belly button. Your result will be enhanced if you have strong core muscles and will change your profile. The tummy tuck is sometimes combined with liposuction for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
1What does surgery involve?
You will be marked prior to surgery which will determine where your scars are going to be. Whilst you are asleep the excess skin and fat from your tummy will be removed and the skin stitched. One or two drains will be placed.
2How long will I be in hospital?
Most patients can go home the next day when they feel comfortable.
3How can I prepare for surgery?
You should purchase an abdominal binder prior to surgery and this will be applied in theatre. You should stop smoking 6 weeks prior to surgery and follow any advice about your medication. Make sure you have supplies of simple painkillers like paracetamol and ibuprofen and laxatives at home.
4What are the risks of surgery?
These will be discussed in the clinic. In order to reduce your risk you can make sure you eat healthily, are a healthy weight, and stop smoking.
5What is the post-operative recovery?
Your wounds will usually be healed in 2 weeks. Occasionally areas can take up to 6 weeks to heal. You will need to wear your post-surgical binder day and night for 2 weeks, then day time for 6 weeks with compression underwear at night.
- Surgical time – 3 hours
- Anaesthetic type – General anaesthetic
- Time off work – 2 weeks office work, 2-6 weeks manual work
- Hospital stay – 1-2 nights
- Shower – immediately
- Reasonably mobile – 2 days
- Sleeping position – back or side
- Exercise including gym – 6 weeks
- Underwear – supportive underwear or binder for 6 weeks
- Sexual activity – 2-6 weeks when comfortable
- Full recovery – 6 weeks
- Driving – 6 weeks
- Drains – removed on day 1