Tummy Tuck
Surgical excellence at its finest
Key facts
Tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat and tightening the underlying muscles.
How it works: removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen
Anaesthesia: general anaesthesia
Recovery time: 6 weeks
Results: immediately
Lasts: permanent if weight is maintained
What is a tummy tuck?
Tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat and tightening the underlying muscles. It is an effective solution for individuals who have loose or sagging abdominal skin and weakened abdominal muscles, often caused by factors such as pregnancy, significant weight loss, or the natural aging process.
Following pregnancy or massive weight loss, it is common to have abdominal muscles that are loose and abdominal skin that is loose, damaged and loose. These issues will not disappear with diet or exercise. A tummy tuck can be a good intervention to restore your abdomen to a firmer shape.
Mini tummy tuck
A mini tummy tuck is a smaller version of a tummy tuck, and an ideal operation for patients with less excess skin and no muscle laxity.
In a mini tummy tuck, a smaller incision is made, and the focus is on addressing mild skin laxity concerns below the belly button.
Should I undergo a tummy tuck?
Tummy tuck is a good procedure for anyone who has abdominal muscle laxity or loose skin over their abdominal area, especially after massive weight loss or pregnancy.
During your consultation, Dr. Gino Vissers will assess your body composition, muscle structure, and overall physique to determine whether you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck.
A tummy tuck can treat any of the following issues:
- Excess skin on the abdomen
- Abdominal muscle separation, which usually occurs after pregnancy
- Stretch marks
- A flabby, loose tummy area
- Low self-esteem and body image
What happens during the procedure?
A tummy tuck is performed under general anaesthesia to ensure your comfort and safety during the surgery.
Dr. Gino Vissers will make an incision along the lower border of the abdomen, typically above the pubic area, where the resulting scar can be concealed by underwear and swimsuits. The underlying abdominal muscles are tightened and sutured together to create a flatter tummy and a more defined waistline. Dr. Gino Vissers will then remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen. The belly button will be repositioned to a more natural location after the excess skin is removed. Two drains will be inserted to remove excess fluids after the operation. The incisions are carefully closed with dissolvable sutures, and surgical dressings are applied to support the healing process.
If needed, the tummy tuck can be combined with a liposuction, correction of the lower back or a correction of the pubic area.
What to expect after a tummy tuck?
After the operation, you will have two drains to aid remove excess fluids. These drains usually come out after a few days, depending on your body's fluid production and the drain output.
Recovery after a tummy tuck typically involves some downtime. Patients with an office job will need to take about two weeks off from work to rest and recover. Expect some swelling and pain for a couple of days after surgery, and you will have prescription pain medication to help you stay comfortable in the early stages of healing. Soreness and swelling may last up to several months.
You will need to wear a compression garment that we provide for 6 weeks. We recommend that you start walking around as soon a possible to reduce swelling and to help prevent blood clots from forming in your legs. You are not allowed to lift any objects heavier than 1.5 kg in the first few weeks after your surgery.
Dr. Gino Vissers will provide detailed post-operative instructions to promote optimal healing and ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery process.
