Steps involved in Abdominoplasty / Tummy Tuck

The first step of an abdominoplasty administering anesthesia before the surgical procedure. The anesthesia choices can include regional anaesthesia and general anesthesia. As per the patient’s condition and general health the doctor will recommend the best choice.In most cases liposuction is combined with tummy tuck,so once patient is under anaesthesiasurgeon would first do the liposuction of area as per the need of the case.

The surgeon will then begin the abdominoplasty procedure by placing incisions in discreet locations. The length of the incisions will depend on the specific technique used. A partial abdominoplasty will have just a single, small incision below the navel. The initial horizontal incision placed above the pubic area, low enough to be hidden by underwear. Whereas a circumferential tummy tuck will need an incision around the entire waist line.The shape and length of the incision is decided based on the amount of excess skinAfter the abdominal skin is lifted, the weakened abdominal muscles are repaired. Another incision around the navel will be made to relocate it to a more aesthetic point after having excised all the excess sagging skin..The excess skin is then trimmed so the remaining skin can be sutured together. The abdominal muscles pulled closer together will give a more toned appearance. The waistline will also seem narrower with abdominal muscle tightening.

A tummy tuck can also be done in combination with other body contouring cosmetic procedures like breast surgery or as part of a mommy makeover,liposuction of back.Sculpting of the navel can also happen after this when the navel will be repositioned. This step is essential to make the tightened abdomen seem more natural looking. The original navel can be detached and placed more appropriately or a new navel can also be artificially sculpted depending on each patient findings. The appearance of stretch marks can improve following the tummy tuck and the marks below the navel can be removed along with the excess skin. A surgical drain is then inserted at the incision site to collect excess fluid and speed up the healing process.The surgeon will then suture the skin incision together with surgical stitches,skin adhesives, tapes or clips. The surgical drain is removed usually in 24 to 48 hours post surgery.Swelling and bruising is expected after undergoing a tummy tuck procedure along with liposuction. To reduce swelling and support the affected area, the patient will be required towear compression garments for about 6 weeks.