Abdominoplasty
You may wish to have this procedure if your abdomen is affected by obesity, skin laxity following pregnancy or weight loss. The overall body appearance is improved by reducing and recontouring abdominal skin and fat. It is not a substitute for weight reduction.
The procedure can be performed either under general anaesthetic or if only a "mini tuck" is required may be performed under twilight sedation. Excess fat and skin is removed from the lower abdomen and the muscles tightened if necessary. Some patients will have the navel repositioned. Although scars are an inevitable part of any surgery, every effort is made to make the scar as inconspicuous as possible. The scar will normally be concealed below the panty line. Repositioning of the navel will require a scar around the belly button which may be visible when the abdomen is bare.
The best results are obtained in patients near their normal weight with some laxity of the abdominal skin or a slight excess of fat or bulging of the abdominal wall. The result is usually permanent although excessive weight gain or pregnancies may undo some of the benefits. Abdominoplasty is often combined with liposuction to achieve the best result. This procedure is called lipoabdominoplasty
Following your surgery you will be required to wear a compression garment up to 6 weeks. You may find it difficult to walk with your back straight initially but this will improve over a few days. Pain and discomfort vary depending on the individual but this is to be expected over the first few days after which the symptoms will improve. You will be given pain medication post-operatively. You will however require some help at home in the early stages and must avoid heavy lifting and straining for six weeks. Returning to work or normal activities will be about 2-4 weeks.