Abdominoplasty is one of the surgical interventions that has the greatest impact on a person, both physically and mentally. The ideal candidates to undergo this procedure are all those who, despite having a good figure, have an accumulation of fat or excess skin in the abdominal area.
It is also useful for women who have had several pregnancies. After the skin has fallen and the muscles have relaxed, the skin does not regain its initial tone and many of them opt for this operation to correct the flaccidity of the area.
However, abdominoplasty is not recommended for those who need to lose a lot of weight or for women who intend to have future pregnancies, as this surgery tightens the vertical muscles of the abdomen.
There are different types of abdominoplasty. However, there are 4 that are the most common. Each model is unique for each patient. Depending on the needs, they can be differentiated:
After an initial assessment appointment with the surgeon, the location of the fat accumulation, excess skin or muscle distension will be diagnosed. With this, the most recommended technique for the patient will be chosen.
Once in the operating theatre, the patient will receive general anaesthesia and the operation will take 2 to 3 hours. Generally, the surgeon will make two small incisions above the pubic area, where the fatty tissue and loose skin will be removed. The second incision will be made in the navel area in order to reposition the navel once the skin is tightened and the excess skin is removed.
If the patient has excess abdominal fat, it will be necessary to remove the fat from the abdomen by liposuction before reconstructing the abdominal wall.
Once the operation is complete, the doctor stitches up all the incisions and places drains to prevent the accumulation of fluid, which will be removed after a few days.
What is the postoperative and recovery period like?
When you leave the operating theatre, you will stay in hospital for 48 hours, taking antibiotics and monitoring your recovery from the operation. Once you are discharged from hospital, you will be given specific lymphatic drainage massages to reduce the swelling in the operated area.
After leaving the hospital, the area will be somewhat swollen and may cause discomfort. As the days go by, you will recover full mobility and will be able to go out walking to improve your physical fitness. At this stage, you will need to wear a compression garment 24 hours a day for 2 months. This will promote healing and flaccidity in the area.
For a speedy recovery, you should follow the doctor's recommendations. For example, you should sleep in an appropriate posture. For this, it is recommended to sleep in a 45º position with your head raised. In addition, the area should be kept hydrated and washed after the first 48 hours. Specialists recommend avoiding, as far as possible, adopting healthy lifestyle habits to prevent weight gain.
Tummy stuck scars
After a tummy tuck, there is always a scar. The formation of the scar can be divided into several phases.
- Closure: During the first 3-4 weeks the body will start to create collagen fibres to fill and close the tissue that has been affected by the operation.
- Establishment: During the first 6 months, the scar will increase in size and darken. This is because the body increases the blood supply to the tissue.
- Maturation: Once the skin and the affected area have healed, the body breaks down some of the collagen generated. The scar will look more final, become lighter and less visible.
To make the scar fade, direct contact with the sun should be avoided and cream should be applied daily and complemented with a regenerating retinoic acid treatment. The scar will not be completely eliminated, but it will be largely concealed. The scar will not have its definitive appearance until almost a year after the operation.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I put on weight after a tummy tuck?
This procedure will undoubtedly change the appearance of your physique immediately. However, you should not be careless. It is all right to gain a couple of kilos. However, if your body notices that you are gaining a considerable amount of weight, the skin will stretch and the result of the operation will worsen.
How much does an abdominoplasty procedure cost?
It depends on the procedure to be performed. However, we offer you one of the best ways of financing abdominoplasty in Alicante:
- From 4 months to 4 years.
- There is no limit to the amount to be financed.
- Up to 12 months with no interest or arrangement fee.
- Processing at the clinic itself.
What is the recovery time for abdominal surgery?
Patients who undergo abdominoplasty must rest absolutely for 10 days after the operation. In order for a person to recover 100%, they will have to follow the specialist's recommendations for approximately 2 months.
What care should I take after the operation?
The most important thing is to follow the recommendations given by the surgeon after the operation. However, the most important care is:
- Use of an abdominal binder during the months following the operation.
- Healing and washing of the wounds 48 hours after the abdominoplasty.
- A correct sleeping position of 45º and with the head elevated.
- Avoid sun exposure and sweating to care for the scar.
- Take the medication prescribed by your specialist for the recommended time.
How long is the girdle worn after abdominoplasty?
After this surgical intervention, the patient must wear a surgical girdle daily and constantly for at least two months after the operation.