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It is an operation to remove the excess fat and skin from the lower part of the abdomen and tighten the abdominal muscles.
It is important to get closer to your desired weight before having the operation.
However, some people may carry a lot of weight in the lower abdomen preventing exercising and weight loss. Having a modified form of the operation (apronectomy) will make the person lighter and able to exercise and lose weight.
Smoking is not good for wound healing as smokers tend to have more health problems including chest infections. Smoking also affects healing so it is advisable to stop, or at least cut down, some weeks before the operation.
Aspirin should be stopped for 7 – 14 days before the operation to reduce the likelihood of bleeding as it reduces the body's natural blood clotting ability.
If you are taking any herbal remedies it is good to inform the Surgeon as some of them also reduce the natural blood clotting abilities of the body.
The operation is usually carried out under general anaesthetic.
The excess fat and skin is lifted off the abdominal muscles. Then the muscles are tightened with strong sutures (stitches) and excess skin and fat are then removed. The wound is sutured, leaving a scar on the bikini line above the pubic hair extending to both hips. Occasionally there is an added vertical midline scar to help improve the definition of the waist. If this is planned, this will be discussed with you during the consultation.
This may be combined with liposuction especially on the hips and thighs to reduce bulges. The liposuction may also be done as a separate procedure some months after the tummy tuck.
The hospital stay is usually for about two nights.