How abdominoplasty works for you
After weight loss surgery, not all – but some – patients find the rapid weight loss causes excess skin to hang out around their midsection. This excess skin is concerning and can cause a delay in reaching your weight loss goal. There is also the risk of sores and other complications from the skin folding. An abdominoplasty may be helpful in resolving these issues.
What is an abdominoplasty?
An abdominoplasty – more commonly referred to as the “tummy tuck surgery”– is such a popular surgery. When you lose a substantial amount of weight and want to shed the excess skin and fat that stubbornly clings to your stomach area, the abdominoplasty can be the perfect answer. You’ve worked hard to get near your ideal weight, and an abdominoplasty can help you reach your goals.
How does an abdominoplasty work?
There are two ways that an abdominoplasty can improve your midsection: a full tummy tuck and a mini one.
The choice between the full and mini procedures depends on your preferences, medical condition and finances — but both options flatten your tummy and narrow your waistline by removing hanging skin and fat while tightening your abdominal muscles to create a firmer abdominal wall.
Full tummy tuck
If you have experienced significant weight loss, a full abdominoplasty will provide complete sculpting.
Two incisions are made during this procedure:
- A long incision just above the pubic area from one hipbone to the other.
- An incision around the navel to detach it from nearby tissue.
Mini tummy tuck
The less-invasive mini abdominoplasty is recommended for targeting the zone below the belly button. It features a smaller hip-to-hip incision, no cutting around the navel, and minimal skin removal.
What to expect from your abdominoplasty
The abdominoplasty is performed under a general anesthetic. The nurses will show you how to take special care of your incisions (and yourself) after surgery. You will also be equipped with a supportive girdle to be worn for about two weeks.
You should be ready for light activity within several days, and a return to work in two weeks if your job does not involve rigorous physical activity. Be prepared to let your abdominal muscles rest in the first few weeks following surgery.
Full recovery time is typically around six weeks. Once you fully recover, you can resume heavy lifting and will be cleared for exercise.
A long-term side effect is permanent scarring. However, the superior precision of our surgeons assures the smallest possible incisions in locations that are hidden from public view.
Risks of abdominoplasty
As with any surgery, complications may occur. It is important to select a surgeon with extensive experience in reconstructive surgery for bariatric surgery patients. This reduces the risk, shortens surgery time and ensures the best possible outcome for you. Barix Clinics has several reconstructive surgeons; we can help you schedule a no-obligation consultation today.
Have questions? Contact us and start your new life today.
