Frequent weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and even the passing of a few years often leave lasting marks on the body, especially in the abdominal area of a woman. In most cases, no exercise or diet can adequately correct these changes. But does this mean that a woman is doomed to live with a body image she is not happy with for the rest of her life? Of course not! Through abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, we can address excess skin and sagging in the abdominal area, helping every woman who wishes to feel beautiful again in her body and confident in her overall appearance!
What is a tummy tuck;
A tummy tuck, widely known as abdominoplasty, is a popular cosmetic plastic surgery procedure during which excess fat and skin are removed from the abdominal area, while the abdominal muscles are simultaneously tightened. In the hands of an experienced plastic surgeon, the results of the procedure can be truly impressive. The goal of the surgery is to create a slimmer waistline and a flatter abdominal contour. Therefore, abdominoplasty is not just a surgical procedure, but rather an upgrade to the quality of life for the woman who chooses to undergo it.
Tummy tuck types
There are various types of abdominoplasty, each addressing specific concerns. For most patients, a standard tummy tuck involves surgically tightening the abdominal muscles and removing the excess skin tissue located both above and below the navel area. It is important to note that if there is a significant amount of fat in the abdominal area, liposuction may be required in addition to the tummy tuck in order to achieve the best possible result.
In addition to the standard abdominoplasty, a mini abdominoplasty can also be performed. This procedure addresses mild skin laxity located only below the belly button. This variation of abdominoplasty generally does not interfere with the abdominal muscles.
Abdominoplasty process
The tummy tuck procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically lasts about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of the case. During the surgery, excess skin and fat are removed from the abdominal area. At the same time, the tightening of the rectus abdominis muscles is reinforced, and any existing hernia is repaired. Additionally, stretch marks that have formed in the sagging area, mainly below the navel, are also addressed as part of the procedure.
An often overlooked, but important, part of a tummy tuck is the belly button. The belly button is essentially sewn – not cut and repositioned – to its new location, which results after the excess skin is removed. We always make sure it has a beautiful and natural shape, with no visible stitches to indicate its new location.
The incision has a curved shape and is “hidden” in the underwear area or on the scar from a previous cesarean section, extending between the two anterior iliac spines (i.e. between the two front bones of the pelvis, right and left).
Postoperative course
The postoperative recovery usually requires an overnight stay at the clinic. In the case of a mini tummy tuck, some patients may be discharged just a few hours after the procedure. The surgery itself is not associated with significant pain — most of the time, patients experience little to no discomfort. Patients are prescribed antibiotics for a few days, along with mild oral painkillers. All sutures are absorbable and do not need to be removed.
Recovery from abdominoplasty
Recovery from abdominoplasty takes time, and patients should be prepared to give their bodies plenty of time to rest and recover. Mild pain and discomfort are expected, but can be managed with pain medication.
After the procedure, drains may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation in the abdominal area. These are removed during a follow-up visit, usually one to two weeks after the surgery. Following the operation, patients are required to wear a special compression garment for about one month to help reduce swelling and bruising, which will gradually subside within a few weeks.
Most patients are able to return to their daily activities approximately two weeks after the surgery. While some light activities can be gradually reintroduced during the first or second week, intense exercise and heavy lifting are recommended only after about one month. As the swelling subsides, patients will begin to notice the results of the tummy tuck becoming more apparent.
Elimination of stretch marks through tummy tuck
Stretch marks are common after pregnancy or weight fluctuations, often making a woman feel uncomfortable with her body image. While abdominoplasty does not specifically target stretch marks, in many women, the majority of these marks are located in the lower abdomen. Therefore, a tummy tuck can significantly reduce the appearance of stretch marks if they are situated in the lower abdominal area, even though this is not the primary goal of the procedure.
Are the results of the surgery permanent?
As long as patients maintain a stable weight and do not plan to go through pregnancy again, the results of an abdominoplasty remain highly satisfactory over time. Aging may have a slight impact on the results due to the natural loss of skin elasticity, but it will certainly not significantly alter them.
Will pregnancy ruin the results of an abdominoplasty?
Unfortunately, yes. The stomach muscles and skin will stretch again if pregnancy occurs. For this reason, it is recommended that women have completed the childbearing process before undergoing a tummy tuck.
What other procedures can be combined with a tummy tuck?
The tummy tuck is often performed after pregnancy or significant weight loss. When the procedure takes place post-pregnancy, it can be perfectly combined with a breast augmentation or breast lift, as pregnancy and breastfeeding can lead to significant changes and sagging of the breasts. This combination of procedures after pregnancy is commonly referred to as a Mommy Makeover. Persistent fat deposits that may remain after pregnancy or substantial weight loss can also be effectively treated with VASER liposuction. For individuals who have experienced major weight loss, abdominoplasty is often ideally combined with an arm lift (brachioplasty), which addresses excess skin and sagging in the upper arms.
If you are considering undergoing a tummy tuck, it is very important to carefully and thoroughly research and select the plastic surgeon who will perform the procedure. Dr. Maria Skolarikou, a Plastic Surgeon based in Athens, carries out this procedure with utmost attention and the highest respect for each patient’s needs and desires. Her goal is always precision and the achievement of natural, excellent results that harmoniously blend with the rest of the body.
