Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) - About the Operation

• This procedure involves the use general anesthesia.

• Once the anesthetic has taken effect, your surgeon will make two incisions, one at the level of the bikini line and another around your umbilicus. The entire skin and fat is lifted off the muscles upto the rib cage. If your muscles are very stretched or torn, they will be pulled together and sutured in place to tighten and repair the area. The raised abdominal skin is then pulled downward, and any excess tissue removed. A new position is made for your umbilicus. Liposuction of the waist and upper abdomen is then done if required.

. The incisions are then closed using dissolvable stitches. The operation lasts approximately two to three hours. If you have had considerable loss of blood during surgery, you might need a blood transfusion.

. After the operation, you will have some drains (thin plastic tubes) coming out of the skin near the wound on either side. They empty any internal bleeding into a plastic bottle. They are removed after one to two days.

. Your abdomen will feel very tight and quite sore for a few days. You will be given some painkillers to make you more comfortable, initially by injection and then as tablets. You will feel very tired and weak for several days.

. Most people who have had this type of procedure under general anesthetic will be able to leave hospital after two to three days.

. If you have had external stitches, these will usually be removed after five to seven days.

. When you return home, you should take life very slowly and be extra careful for the first week. You should avoid any lifting, stretching or strenuous exercise for six weeks.

. After the first five days you can bathe normally and get the wound wet but please try to keep the adhesive strips on for as long as possible. They help support the wound during the early phases of healing.

. The scars will initially look pink but over the next six months they will fade to a pale white colour.

. In most cases following a tummy tuck, you will be asked to wear a pressure garment. These garments are made of a strong, breathable and lightweight compression fabric and they provide compression in the lower abdomen, flank, hip, and thigh area. They improve blood circulation, minimize swelling, flush potentially harmful fluids out of the body and help the skin drape better to its new contours.

. An appointment will be organized to review you in the immediate postoperative period. You should also schedule an appointment to review the operation result after three months.