What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is an operation to produce a tighter, flatter tummy. The operation is not designed to be a way of losing weight.
There are two main types of tummy tuck – the full abdominoplasty and the mini or partial abdominoplasty. The technique chosen depends upon the amount of fat and loose skin to be removed. Liposuction is sometimes carried out at the same time.
The procedure takes between two to three hours to do and is performed under a general anaesthetic. A support garment is worn around the tummy for a few weeks after surgery.
You are likely to stay in the hospital for one to two nights.
What are the risks and side effects of surgery?
Complications are infrequent and usually minor. However, no surgery is without risk.
- A collection of blood or body fluid can build up underneath the skin. Rarely, a return to the operating theatre is needed to sort this problem.
- The scars can, on occasion, become red, raised and lumpy.
- Your abdomen will feel numb for up to six months following surgery and for a few people, some numbness is permanent.
- Poor healing leading to wound breakdown and skin loss can occur.
- Rarely, the position of the tummy button may seem off–centre.
- Other risks include bleeding, wound infection, chest infection, blood clots in the leg (known as a deep vein thrombosis) although these are uncommon.
The final result – a flatter and less flabby stomach – can be properly judged after about six months.
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