Can a tummy tuck(abdominoplasty) performed by expert surgeon, Dr Samuel Yang, help you to reach your goals?
Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, removes fat and skin, and in most cases, also restores weakened or separated muscles.
Even individuals of average body weight and proportion can develop an abdomen that protrudes. The most common causes of this include:
- Ageing
- Heredity
- Pregnancy
- Prior surgery
- Significant fluctuations in weight
What tummy tuck surgery CAN’T do
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is not a substitute for weight loss or an alternative to working out.
The results of a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) are technically permanent, the positive outcome can be greatly diminished by significant fluctuations in your weight. For this reason, individuals who are planning substantial weight loss or women who may be considering future pregnancies would be advised to postpone a tummy tuck.
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) cannot correct stretch marks, although these may be removed or somewhat improved if they are located on the areas of excess skin that will be excised.
The Procedure
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a 3-part procedure combined into one operation. The first part of the surgery involves removing the extra skin between the belly-button and pubic region and results in a well-concealed incision hidden under the ‘panty-line’.
Secondly, the abdominal ‘corset’ muscles are tightened to improve resting muscle tone and provide a firmer profile.
Finally, extra fat in the upper abdomen, sides and waist are contoured with liposuction.
We make every effort to minimise scars and to conceal them as much as possible. You will be advised at the time of your consultation which type of scarring you may expect. This procedure requires a general anaesthetic and can be performed as day surgery.
It is important to emphasise that a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is not a replacement for working out.
This surgical procedure is reserved for patients who have not been successful in reducing their protruding abdomen or tightening abdominal skin through diet or exercise. Some cases include if the muscle and skin has been stretched from weight gain or pregnancy to the point where only a surgical procedure can restore a flattened, defined abdominal wall.
Are you a candidate for a tummy tuck (abdominplasty)?
Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck(abdominoplasty) are women or men who are in good health.
Skin can become lax or abdomen muscles stretched because of pregnancy, significant weight loss, ageing, or genetics. Patients must be at a stable weight. If you are overweight, this procedure may not be appropriate for you. Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) patients should not plan on becoming pregnant in the future as this will reverse results. During your consultation examination, your surgeon will be able to determine whether you could benefit from liposuction as well, or if you just need liposuction instead of a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty).
What to Expect During Your Consultation
During your private consultation with Dr Yang, a detailed examination will be performed to determine the ideal personalised technique that will provide you with your desired results.
He will go over your personalised preparation and postoperative instructions. Please share any questions or concerns you have about the procedure; your surgeon will be more than happy to answer them.
Preparing for your Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Each patient will receive personalised preparation instructions that will aid in providing the optimal results. Generally, you will be asked to:
- Complete all assigned medical examinations prior to your procedure.
- Avoid aspirin and anti-inflammatory medications a month prior to your procedure.
- Make sure to drink a lot of water leading up to your surgery. Hydration is key for a successful procedure and recovery.
- Schedule at least a week off from work.
- If you are a smoker, to stop smoking three weeks before the procedure.
Procedure Techniques
Each tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedure varies in length, but a full or modified tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) typically lasts 3 – 4 hours, and a mini tummy tuck (wedge apronectomy) takes 2 – 3 hours.
Depending on the extent of your specific case, you will either require a:
Full Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
A full tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a technique that tightens the abdominal muscles, skin and fat deposits from above and below the bellybutton. The bellybutton gets released from the surrounding skin, and a new circular incision is created for the bellybutton.
Modified Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
A modified tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is reserved for patients who only wish to address either abdominal skin laxity or abdominal muscle weakness. This technique’s sresults are not as dramatic as a full tummy tuck (addominoplasty).
Mini Tummy Tuck (Wedge Apronectomy)
A mini tummy tuck (wedge apronectomy) generally addresses lax skin and muscle tightening underneath the bellybutton but can be performed above the bellybutton as well. The procedure does not require release of the bellybutton. A mini tummy tuck (wedge apronectomy) is reserved for those who want minimal correcting, and as a result the incision will be shorter than that of a full tummy tuck (abdominoplasty).
Post Procedure
Arrange for a family member or friend to drive your home after your surgery as you will be unable to drive yourself.
Rest is important for the healing process. Make sure you take at least a week off from work; though this may vary depending on the individual case. Most people are able to return to a desk job within 1-2 weeks.
To make sure you are comfortable during your recovery, make sure you have what you need at arm’s reach. This can range from necessities like medication and water to your favourite sources of entertainment like your computer or a good book.
Tummy Tuck (Adominoplasty) performed in Fortitude Valley by Dr Samuel Yang
For more information on Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Surgery or to book you consultation, contact us today.
