Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure on the abdomen. People opt for tummy tucks for various reasons: to remove excess skin after weight loss or pregnancy, to get rid of skin that is marked with stretch marks and scars, or to remove fat from the area. The surgeon can also sometimes tighten the abdominal muscles. The result of a tummy tuck should be a flatter tummy and a better overall shape. So, what do you need to know about a tummy tuck operation?
Tummy Tucks are for People within a Normal Weight Range.
Tummy tucks are not designed for people to lose weight. However, if you have excess skin and fat and are a normal weight, removing the bulk may help you. The benefits of a tummy tuck can be for life, as long as you maintain a steady, healthy weight.
The Tummy Tuck is performed under General Anaesthetic
As with many other types of major surgery, the tummy tuck requires that you will be under general anaesthetic for the duration of the procedure. For this reason, you will have to fast for around 6 hours before the operation. You will also have to stay in hospital for a few days after the surgery, just to make sure that your recovery is going in the right direction and that you are safe to go home.
Preparing for Tummy Tucks
Before you arrive for your tummy tuck surgery, your surgeon will have asked you to prepare in order to reduce the risk of complications. If you smoke, you will be asked to stop. If you have diabetes, your sugar levels will need to be under good control.
Recovery from Tummy Tuck Surgery
When you initially come out of surgery, you will likely have drains coming from your wound. You will be prescribed pain killers as the procedure can be painful. You will have stitches and are likely to go home with these in place. At home you need to look after your wound and stay rested, in order to avoid straining your abdominal muscles. You also may have to wear a corset to help reduce swelling. The recovery period for a tummy tuck is usually about 6 weeks.
Potential Complications from the Tummy Tuck
As with any other surgical procedure there are potential complications, including infection and bleeding. However, your surgeon will talk you through these before you consent to the operation and you will be monitored following the procedure, to ensure that any complications are caught early.
About Ramsay Health Care
At Ramsay Health Care we are proud to work in partnership with some of the highest qualified and experienced ophthalmologist, orthopaedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, pain management consultants and physiotherapists in the UK. Our holistic care offers you the best treatment!
At Ramsay you won’t have to wait for an appointment for your surgery. Your treatment may be covered by medical insurance and self-pay packages are available on request. We have first class facilities and all self-funding and most privately insured patients can enjoy our Premium Care offering exclusive benefits including superb food, a relaxing environment, priority access and appointments to suit your lifestyle. Our aim is to help you feel like a guest as well as a patient.
Please contact us for more information.