Tummy Tucks or abdominoplasty is a relatively common procedure now used by a large number of individuals, both male and female. As cosmetic surgery has become more acceptable and bathing suits more revealing, requests for abdominoplasty are coming from women who have experiences pregnancy or a rapid weight gain which may have left them with damage to the lower abdominal skin and musculature.

The process of abdominoplasty involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen with the muscles of the abdominal wall being tightened in addition.
Abdominoplasty patients are generally men and women who have large fat deposits or loose abdominal skin that do not respond to a healthy diet and exercise.

Women who have gone through multiple pregnancies and stretched their abdominal wall and skin can greatly benefit from the procedure.

Older and obese patients who have a loss of elasticity in the skin can also benefit from the procedure.

Tummy tucks can be partial (mini tuck) or complete, with either procedure able to be used alone or in combination with liposuction to achieve the desired result.
Partial and complete abdominoplasty is usually performed as an outpatient procedure and can be conducted under general or local anaesthetic. Complete abdominoplasty usually takes two to five hours while partial abdominoplasty may take an hour or two.

Post Operative Care

A foam tape dressing will be placed on the abdomen and will be covered by an abdominal binder immediately following surgery. On the night of surgery the patient is accommodated in a room with two drains existing from the lower part of the incision and only should be manipulated with great caution. It is advised that the patient remain in bed on during the evening of surgery and to use a bed pan.

Walking and getting out of bed should be avoided in the first twelve hours with the ideal position following surgery to be with the feet and head elevated at thirty degrees, in order to relieve tension on the suture line of the tummy tuck.

The first day following surgery, you may begin walking with help. It is not advisable to drive a car or ride in a car for the first five to six days following surgery, unless you are coming to the office for a post-operative visit. You should be walking in a bent over position and should not attempt to stand straight up for the first five days following surgery. After approximately two weeks, all sutures will be removed.

Sports and vigorous activities are avoided for four weeks, however walking and bicycling may be done three weeks following surgery.

After surgery, some people return to their jobs within two weeks, while some others take three or four weeks before going back. The results of tummy tuck are usually long lasting if you keep your weight and exercise regularly.

Patients with a mini tummy tuck do not have drains and are usually discharged the day of surgery.

If there is anything you would like to enquire further about, or if you would like to organise an appointment with any of our practitioners, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our friendly and helpful staff will always endeavour to assist you with your query.

« Click here to return to Body Procedures