DR VIVIEN MORIS
Tummy Tuck
Tummy Tuck - Indication
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is typically indicated for removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightening the abdominal muscles, often sought after significant weight loss or pregnancy.
Hospital stay
The patient will stay in the hospital for 2 days. Drains will be removed prior to discharge.
Surgical technique
In a tummy tuck procedure, an incision is made across the lower abdomen, through which excess skin and fat are removed. The abdominal muscles are then tightened and sutured.
Post-operative care
The scars will be hidden beneath underwear. They resemble a wide C-section scar. You can take a shower on the third day after the surgery without dressings.
Time
The surgery last less than 2 hour under general anesthesia
Sports / Daily life
The patient should avoid lifting weights, including children, for one month. Normal sedentary activities can be resumed on the day of the surgery.
What is a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the abdomen. It involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the lower abdominal region, often a result of weight loss or pregnancy. During the surgery, an incision is made along the lower abdomen, allowing the surgeon to access and excise the surplus tissue. Additionally, the abdominal muscles are tightened and sutured to create a firmer core. The remaining skin is then repositioned and meticulously sutured in place to achieve a smoother, flatter, and more contoured abdominal profile. Tummy tucks are sought after by individuals looking to achieve a more toned and aesthetically pleasing midsection.
What is a muscle diastasis of the abdomen?
A muscle diastasis refers to the separation of the left and right abdominal muscles, specifically the rectus abdominis muscles. This separation often occurs due to factors like pregnancy or significant weight gain, which cause the abdominal muscles to stretch and move apart along the midline of the body. During the tummy tuck, the surgeon can repair and suture the muscles together, creating a corset-like effect to strengthen the abdominal wall. This can remove back pain and contribute to achieving a flat and aesthetically pleasing stomach.
Is the tummy tuck painful?
I use a long lasting anesthetic product in the different surgical layer. Most of the abdomen will be numb the first 24 h after the surgery. You will avoid the maximal pain after the immediate surgery. You will have good painkiller drugs for around 10 days. Overall, while there is some discomfort associated with the procedure, it is usually well-managed with pain medication, and most patients find that the long-term benefits of a flatter and more toned abdomen outweigh the temporary discomfort.
Can we use VASER liposuction?
Yes, the Vaser liposuction device can be used at the same time during the tummy tuck to have a more defined abdomen. Vaser lipo, is a specialized form of liposuction that uses ultrasound technology to break up and emulsify fat, making it easier to remove. "Vaser" stands for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance. In this procedure, ultrasound waves are delivered through small probes that liquefy fat cells while preserving other tissues like nerves and blood vessels. This technique allows for more precise fat removal and is especially useful for sculpting and defining underlying muscles, making it a popular choice for high-definition body contouring. Vaser lipo is less invasive than traditional liposuction, often resulting in less pain and quicker recovery times.
Should I do babies before my tummy tuck?
A frequent question we encounter from women considering tummy tuck is whether they should have children before undergoing the procedure. This is an important consideration, as pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect the size and shape of the body fat repartition, potentially altering the results of the surgery. If you plan to have children in the near future, you may wish to postpone the surgery until after completing your family. However, if pregnancy is not planned for several years, you might choose to proceed with the surgery.
When can I resume sport activities?
It's important for patients to understand that the recovery period can vary, and returning to physical activity should be a gradual process. Typically, light activities, such as walking, can be resumed within a few days post-surgery, aiding circulation and recovery. However, it's crucial to avoid strenuous activities, especially those that involve the chest muscles like weight lifting for at least four to six weeks. This allows the body to properly settle and the incision sites to heal. High-impact activities, such as running or jumping, should be reintroduced slowly and only after one month after the surgery.
What are the risks of a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck, like any surgical procedure, carries certain risks and potential complications. These can include infection, bleeding, adverse reactions to anesthesia, and scarring. There's also the possibility of wound healing issues, skin numbness, and temporary or, in rare cases, permanent changes in sensation. In some instances, blood clots or fat embolism can occur. While these risks are generally low, it's crucial to consult with a qualified surgeon, follow post-operative instructions diligently, and discuss any concerns to minimize these potential complications and achieve a successful outcome.