Tummy Tuck Procedure – Why it is needed, its Importance, Treatment and side effects

Getting rid of the extra shredded fat that is left after losing an excessive amount of weight becomes necessary because it is difficult to lose that lose and saggy fat on its own. The cosmetic surgical procedure done to remove that excess fat is called tummy tuck or abdominoplasty.  It helps to improve the shape and appearance of the abdominal area.

Dr. Sudhir Singh, shares her/his views on what a tummy tuck is, why it is done, how one should prepare for a tummy tuck, how it is done, and what are the side effects and complications associated with a tummy tuck.

What is abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)?

An abdominoplasty is a cosmetic surgery that helps to remove the excess skin/fat. An abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a major surgery that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen. This surgery not only helps to remove fat but also helps to strengthen the muscles in the abdominal wall. This surgical procedure is known as tummy tuck or abdominoplasty.

It is necessary for one to educate themselves before moving ahead with the procedure. One should thoroughly analyze the situation and take appropriate time before arriving at a final decision. It is important to understand this procedure should not be done as an alternative to weight loss.

Why it is done?

Following are some of the reasons why one would need an abdominoplasty.

• People who have excess fat
• Shredded fat post-pregnancy
• Fluctuations in weight
• Poor skin elasticity
• Age
• Change in your body
• Abdominal surgery
• Cesarian delivery
• Weak connective tissue in the abdomen

 A tummy tuck helps to remove loose, excess fat, skin and strengthen and tighten the weak muscles. It also helps to remove stretch marks, and excess skin in the lower abdomen i.e. below the belly button as that is the most stubborn fat.

Combining a tummy tuck with other body-contouring operations like breast surgery is an option. If you have had liposuction, a tummy tuck may also be necessary because liposuction just removes fat and the tissue directly beneath the skin. It does not remove any extra skin.

Types and how abdominoplasty is done?

How abdominoplasty is done depends on the type of result a patient wishes to have. The surgery can take from 1 hour to 5 hours as per the location of the surgery.  Below are certain types of tummy done:-

Complete abdominoplasty

Complete abdominoplasty is mostly done when the correction is way too much. The surgeon starts with an incision around the bikini line i.e. roughly around where the public hair starts. The quantity of excess skin that is removed determines how long the scar will be. The skin and its muscles will eventually be adjusted by your surgeon. The whole procedure takes approximately 2 hours.

Partial or mini-abdominoplasty

This is done with shorter incisions and is often done on people who have less excess skin to be removed. In the whole process, your belly button will not be moved. The surgeon will separate the line of incision and the belly button. The whole procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours.

Circumferential abdominoplasty

This surgery is usually done there is excess fat in the back and also the abdominal area. The doctor may recommend you to either have liposuction of the back or this circumferential abdominoplasty. If you go forward with a circumferential tummy tuck procedure the doctor will be able to remove both skin and fat from the hip and back area.

If you are someone who is active and works out a lot then it is advised to limit your workout and the strenuous exercise for the next 4-6 weeks. It usually takes one week to recover but every body is different and everyone’s healing process is different.

When should you avoid an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)?

If you’re a woman who is still planning to have children, you may want to postpone a tummy tuck until you’re through bearing children. During surgery, your vertical muscles are tightened. Future pregnancies can separate these muscles once again.

If you are planning on losing weight then it is advised to avoid having tummy tuck procedure right away. It is always a better idea to first lose weight and let your weight be stabilised before moving forward with tummy tuck. Your surgeon will discuss with you all possible scenarios when you visit for consultation.

Side effects and complications of  abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)

Post the surgery, the doctor will prescribe certain medications to help ease the pain and swelling. Soreness and numbness may last a few days and the patient might feel tired for the same amount of time.

Be it any surgery, it comes with certain risks of side effects. Below are some complications that may occur:

• Infection 
• Accumulation of fluid
• Blood clots
• Poor of slow healing of wound
• Hematoma (bleeding)
• Scarring
• Numbness

Results

A stomach tuck can improve the appearance of your belly by removing excess and extra fat and skin and also strengthens your abdominal wall. If right weight is maintained, the benefits of tummy tuck are permanent and long lasting.

FAQs

Q1. Is it safe to get a tummy tuck ?

The whole procedure is safe but every individual’s body is different and therefore befor removing forward it is advised to know if tummy tuck is the right treatment plan for you. 

Q2. What are the health benefits of getting a tummy tuck?

Following are the benefits of getting tummy tuck:-

• Improves the appearance, abdominal tone
• Forms a better posture
• Reduces stress urinary incontinence
• Easier management of weight 
• Hernia correction

Q3. Is getting a tummy tuck painful?

No, the procedure is done after giving anesthesia. Post surgery, the area corrected will be swollen and sore for a few days but will eventually start to heal and relieve any slight pain or discomfort.

Q4. How long will a tummy tuck last ?

If the weight is maintained, the tummy tuck procedure is long-lasting and permanent. 

Q5. Can a tummy tuck cause stomach issues ?

Yes, there might be situations in which the patient might experience constipation post tummy tuck procedure.

Q6. Can you conceive (have a baby) after getting a tummy tuck ?

There is no theory on not being able to conceive post tummy tuck surgery. The surgery does not affect a woman’s ability to get pregnant and is also not dangerous to carry a baby post surgery.