Abdominal aesthetics refers to the procedure of removing excess fat tissue and skin in the abdominal area. The highly popular tummy tuck surgeries are among the most frequently preferred aesthetic operations by women, especially during the summer season. Typically, after pregnancy, regional weight gain, or excessive weight loss, deformities and sagging occur. As a surgical procedure, abdominoplasty is an effective treatment method that provides highly successful results.
How is Abdominoplasty Performed?
It involves tightening the sagging skin identified in the front of the abdomen along with the associated fat to achieve a flatter and firmer appearance. Abdominoplasty should always be performed by a qualified medical team, and the procedures may continue until the desired result is achieved. After the tummy tuck operation, a permanent scar remains; however, this scar is planned to coincide with the cesarean line or underwear line to minimize its appearance and prevent an unsightly look. A successful tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin while also repairing and tightening weakened or separated muscles. Depending on the amount of excess skin, either a full or mini abdominoplasty may be performed. A full tummy tuck involves a horizontal incision, similar to but slightly longer than a cesarean section line. Once the skin is lifted, the weakened abdominal muscles are stitched together at the midline, resulting in a slimmer waist. Below you can watch the preparation video we recorded before abdominoplasty with Dr. Ebru DURMUŞ.
Before Abdominoplasty Surgery
Once the surgery date is set, you should stop smoking at least one week prior, and you should not take Vitamin C or aspirin, as they have blood-thinning effects. Pay special attention to your nutrition, including on the day of surgery, as extreme dieting will not be effective during this period. For comparison, it is useful to take a photo of your abdomen before the procedure to better evaluate the results afterward.
After Abdominoplasty Surgery
A tummy tuck procedure typically takes around 3 hours, and patients usually stay one night in the hospital. After surgery, bandages are applied to the treated area to prevent swelling and bleeding, and drainage tubes are placed in the lower abdominal area. These tubes are usually removed by your doctor within two days. To reduce abdominal tension, a few pillows are placed under the knees. Patients need to wear a corset for several days to resume normal social life comfortably. Following your surgeon’s instructions during this process ensures faster recovery. For 20 days after surgery, patients should eat light but frequent meals. Both before and after abdominoplasty, it is recommended to avoid smoking, alcohol, aspirin (blood thinners), and fatty foods.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tummy Tuck
In this section, we have compiled the most common questions patients ask about abdominoplasty, particularly before surgery.
What Should I Do Before Surgery?
As mentioned above, you must stop smoking at least two weeks prior to surgery. In addition, maintaining a healthy diet and exercising are among the key recommendations made by doctors before undergoing abdominoplasty.
Is Anesthesia Used During Surgery?
Since a tummy tuck is a surgical procedure, it is performed under general anesthesia. This ensures that no pain is felt during the operation.
Will I Achieve My Desired Body Shape After Abdominoplasty?
It is important to understand that abdominoplasty is not a weight-loss procedure. This surgery is solely for reshaping and tightening the abdominal area and is often chosen for regional contouring rather than overall weight reduction.
Will I Experience Pain After Surgery?
Temporary pain and bruising may occur due to the procedure. To minimize these, follow your doctor’s recommendations carefully. During the first few weeks, avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise, attend your dressing appointments, and wear comfortable clothing.
How Much Does Abdominoplasty Cost?
Since it is not appropriate to provide a fixed or standard price for such operations, no exact figure is given for abdominoplasty. The cost depends on your surgeon and the specifics of the abdominal procedure to be performed.
What Are the Risks of This Surgery?
Cosmetic surgeries generally carry moderate levels of risk. Since abdominoplasty is a major operation, choosing a professional aesthetic clinic and an experienced surgeon is crucial. Clinics and surgeons with many years of experience and successful results reduce the risks significantly.