Dramatic weight gain and loss, as well as pregnancy, can cause the skin on the stomach to stretch and lose elasticity, resulting in a sagging and loose appearance. Traditional methods such as exercise and dieting may not be sufficient to correct this problem.
Abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to create a smoother, more toned abdomen. It involves removing excess sagging skin and stubborn fat that cannot be eliminated through diet and exercise alone. Tummy tuck surgery is popular among people who have undergone significant weight loss or have experienced the physical changes that can occur during pregnancy. It is performed at a clinic in Istanbul, Turkey, by qualified plastic surgeons.
Tummy tuck surgery procedure
There are two different methods for performing tummy tuck surgery. The surgeon will select the appropriate method based on the amount of excess skin, sagginess, and the patient’s expectations. In both methods, the patient will receive general anesthesia.
Full tummy tuck incision:
The surgeon will make an incision along the bikini line, then pull down and remove the excess skin and fat. Additionally, they will tighten the weakened abdominal muscles. Depending on the amount of skin pulled and removed, the procedure may require repositioning of the belly button. Although full tummy tuck leaves more scars, it gives the best results for upper and lower abdomen sagging. It is also suitable for patients who have recently lost a significant amount of weight, and for women who have stubborn fat and excess abdominal skin after pregnancy.
Mini tummy tuck:
This procedure usually targets the lower abdominal area. The surgeon will make a smaller incision into the bikini line, then pull the skin down and remove the excess skin and fat. The surgeon may or may not tighten the abdominal muscles, and they may not reposition the belly button, although it may be pulled into a lower position. Mini tummy tuck surgery causes minimal scarring, but it has less effective results. It is recommended for women who plan to become pregnant, as they may need revision surgery.
Recovery after tummy tuck surgery
After tummy tuck surgery, you may experience some pain that can be managed with pain medication. It is important to follow the surgeon’s instructions for managing pain and minimizing the risk of complications. You will need to wear a compression garment for four to six weeks to help reduce swelling and bruising and promote healing.
It is important to get plenty of rest, especially in the first two weeks after surgery, and avoid activities that may strain or stretch the abdomen or cause the sutures to tear. You will be able to shower after 48 hours, but it is important to dry the incision line well with a clean towel. Light daily activities, including office work, can usually be resumed after two weeks, but more strenuous physical activities should be avoided for three to four weeks. After eight weeks, you should be able to resume all normal activities.
Once the incisions have fully healed, the surgeon may recommend scar massage to help smooth the scars. It is important to follow the surgeon’s instructions for scar care to achieve the best possible results.
Tummy tuck results
The results of tummy tuck surgery are usually highly satisfying, as it gives you a more toned and slimmer-looking abdomen. You will be able to see the final results after six to nine months when everything settles. However, you can start enjoying your new shape after six weeks once the swelling and bruising resolve.