TUMMY TUCK
With the right diet and targeted muscle training, unwanted fat deposits can be reduced and the skin and tissue can be tightened. However, as a result of pregnancy or due to significant weight loss or gain, damage to the supporting structures in the subcutaneous tissue has often already occurred, leaving loose excess skin and tissue behind.
During a tummy tuck, hanging soft abdominal tissue (the so-called fat apron) is removed and, if necessary, the underlying abdominal muscles are tightened.
TOTAL TUMMY TUCK – TOTAL ABDOMINOPLASTY
During a major tummy tuck, the surgeon removes a transverse, spindle-shaped area of skin. The incision is made parallel to the pubic hair line. This means that the later scars are as visible as possible. Towards the sides, the cut rises in a W shape and extends to the hip bones.
The abdominal skin is loosened from the hip bones over the muscles, if necessary up to the costal arch. This allows the abdominal wall to be pulled down by around ten centimeters and tightened. The surgeon removes the excess skin. If the abdominal wall is weak, the muscle layer is also sutured. The navel is cut and left in place.
The wound edges are then sutured in several layers. Only at the end is a hole cut into the tightened skin above the remaining navel and the navel sewn into it. The operation is carried out under general anesthesia and takes around 4 hours with a hospital stay of 3 days.
MINI TUMMY TUCK – MINI ABDOMINOPLASTY
During mini-abdominoplasty or mini-abdominoplasty, the abdominal wall is only tightened below the belly button. As the name suggests, it is a smaller procedure compared to a tummy tuck.
In combination with liposuction.
The upper abdomen, waist and hips can also be treated with liposuction. This procedure is particularly useful if the abdominal skin below the navel is slack. The operation is carried out under general anesthesia and takes approximately 2 hours with a hospital stay of 2 days.
RISKS AND RECOVERY
As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infections and even tissue necrosis. Short-term hematomas (bruises) must also be expected in every patient.
Drainage tubes inserted during the operation prevent the negative effects of possible secondary bleeding and accumulation of tissue fluid. They are removed after about two days.
Specific possible complications after tummy tuck surgery include umbilical circulatory disorders and deformities. Small asymmetries in the course of the scar and in the contour are difficult to influence.
The operated skin may initially remain numb, but full sensation returns within six months.
You should wear the compression garment that you will be put on after your operation continuously for the next 6 weeks. In order to achieve optimal results, you should avoid sporting activities for 6 weeks.
FOR QUESTIONS FOR YOUR SURGEON
If you have any questions about the tummy tuck and would like to be informed about realistic expectations, please write to us. In a so-called mommy make over, the tummy tuck can also be combined with breast surgery in the same procedure.