Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

Achieving a smoother, slimmer, and tighter abdomen can significantly enhance one’s self-esteem. As a widely sought-after and gratifying cosmetic procedure, abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, offers the potential to boost self-confidence and provide the desired abdominal contour that may have proven elusive through diet and exercise alone.

Indications

Abdominoplasty is performed to address excess fat or loose skin in the abdominal area. It is suitable for individuals who seek to flatten their abdomen by removing surplus fat and skin while tightening the abdominal wall. Candidates include those who have experienced weight loss, undergone bariatric surgery resulting in excess skin, women grappling with post-pregnancy abdominal concerns, or individuals struggling with excess weight in the abdominal region. It’s important to note that sustaining results from abdominoplasty is influenced by lifestyle choices, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise. Abdominoplasty is not recommended for women planning future pregnancies, as it is advisable to undergo the procedure after completing childbearing.

Procedure

Abdominoplasty can be performed in two variations: full abdominoplasty or partial abdominoplasty (mini-tummy tuck), with the latter being less invasive and yielding a more discreet scar. The appropriate approach will be determined during consultation with your plastic surgeon, Dr. Tjasink. Additionally, liposuction may be incorporated to address excess fat in adjacent areas such as the hips or “love handles.”

Under general anesthesia, Dr. Tjasink will create a horizontal incision near the pubic region, the length of which will vary based on the chosen abdominoplasty type. Another incision is made around the navel, allowing separation of the skin and fat from the abdominal muscles. Excess skin and fat are excised, and the abdominal muscles are tightened to refine the waistline. The skin is then repositioned, and a new belly button may be sculpted. Liposuction is utilized to further contour the area before closure of the incisions with stitches, strategically placed below the bikini line.

Recovery

Recovery following abdominoplasty is contingent upon the extent of the procedure. Typically, patients may experience discomfort and sensitivity for the initial two days, necessitating hospitalization for observation. Bruising may occur in areas treated with liposuction or body contouring. Early ambulation is encouraged to facilitate healing. Patients undergoing partial abdominoplasty or mini-tummy tuck generally experience a shorter recovery period and less postoperative discomfort compared to those undergoing full abdominoplasty, who may require up to two weeks for recovery.

Upon discharge, patients will receive detailed instructions on incision care and activity restrictions, including avoidance of strenuous activities and heavy lifting. A follow-up appointment with Dr. Tjasink will be scheduled one week post-surgery.

Abdominoplasty entails a gradual healing process, with final results typically becoming evident after several months. By adhering to a balanced diet and regular exercise regimen, patients can anticipate enduring outcomes. For further information and pricing regarding abdominoplasty in Johannesburg, please contact our office today.

Anaesthesia:

General anaesthetic or local anaesthesia with intravenous sedation administered by a board-certified anaesthetist, especially in smaller cases.

In/Out Patient:

Usually outpatient, followed by admission to a medical B&B facility.

Post-operative:

Temporary bruising, swelling, discomfort, and numbness may occur.

Recovery:

Feeling better and returning to work typically occurs within 1 week or more. Strenuous activity is advised to be avoided for 1 month. The fading of scars usually takes several months to a year. Application of Surgeon’s Choice tissue scar repair oil is mandatory postoperatively.

Results:

Rejuvenation of breast shape and restoration of youthful proportion. This procedure may be combined with breast implants. 

Expectations and Symmetry:

It’s important to recognize that no person is perfectly symmetrical, even before surgery. While every effort is made during surgery to minimize side-to-side dissimilarities, such differences are natural and may persist to some degree even after the most successful operation.