Tummy Tuck - Abdominoplasty
Be trim, taut and terrific
Weight loss, weight gain or simply getting older, they can all affect the contour of the abdomen. Excess loose skin, fatty deposits or lax abdominal muscles can give you a ‘pot belly’, and may restrict the type of clothes you feel comfortable wearing, or the type of activities you participate in.
A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty flattens the abdomen, tightens the muscles and removes excess skin. You can also have liposuction at the same time, if you have fatty deposits. You’ll feel more confident about your body.
Considering Abdominoplasty?
There are some common questions that many people who are considering abdominoplasty ask, such as:
Abdominoplasty is a very individualised procedure, and the outcome will be different for everyone. That is why before you make any decisions you will have a consultation with Dr Hunt to discuss your needs and goals for the surgery.
During your first consultation, Dr Hunt will evaluate your general health; explain the available surgical techniques including the risks and potential complications and your recovery time. Dr Hunt uses a different surgical technique according to your specific needs.
- Endoscopic abdominoplasty.
- Mini-abdominoplasty.
- High lateral tension full abdominoplasty.
Photographs will be taken for your medical record and to allow Dr Hunt to fully plan your surgery.
Dr Hunt's assistant will prepare a quote for you, which will include the surgical, anaesthetic, and hospital fees.
You will stay in hospital for at least one night following surgery. Once you are comfortable and able to get to and from a bathroom you will go home.
When you go home you should limit your movements to around the house for 2 to 3 days. When you are discharged you will be given a prescription for pain medication, which will minimise your discomfort.
You should take only the pain medication prescribed, and eat before you take it or it might upset your stomach.
Eat lightly for 3 to 4 days after surgery and then resume you normal diet. Make sure you get plenty of fluids.
Will I have to return for post-operative care?
When can I resume my normal activities?
For the first 10 days after surgery you will be stooped and will have to walk carefully. As the skin stretches and gets used to its new position you will slowly straighten up.
You will be taught how to care for the drain sites and incisions before you leave hospital. Once the drains are removed you may shower.
Compression garments must be worn continuously for 2 weeks, and then during the day for a further 2 weeks.
It will take at least 3 weeks before you fully recover.
When will I see the end result?
The benefits of abdominoplasty are immediate, although the full benefits may take up to two months or more to be fully appreciated.
You will have a scar. The standard abdominoplasty incision extends at least from hip to hip, right over your pubis area. This leaves a long scar that usually heals very well but is always present. If you have a mini-abdominoplasty your scar can be limited to the width of your pubic hair.
It will take at least a year for the scar to mature and fade from pink/red to pale. It is usually not visible in your swimsuit or underwear.
Take the Next Step
If you're ready to learn more about tummy tucks, or take that step toward an improved quality of life click here to make an appointment to see Dr Jeremy Hunt
