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Tummy Tuck - Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty, probably better known as a tummy tuck, is the operation to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen/tummy. The majority of patients opting for this procedure are women who, following the birth of their child(ren), dislike the effects childbirth has had on their body-shape and appearance. Prospective patients tend to wear baggy clothes and long jackets to disguise their profile and are often embarrassed in swimwear. Even undressing in front of their partner may be distressing.

Basically the skin of the abdomen has been stretched by pregnancy and the underneath tummy muscles pushed apart leaving folds of skin and fat. If there is a scar from a Caesarean section or hysterectomy it usually appears even worse.

Weight-loss can often make the tummy look worse and exercise does not improve it.

Abdominoplasty is not a solution to being overweight and should not be carried out to correct obesity. Ideally the patient should be within several pounds of their ideal weight and the reasons for your requesting an abdominoplasty/tummy tuck should be discussed in detail with your surgeon.

Abdominoplasty is a major operation carried out under general anaesthesia and requires a one or two night post-operative stay in hospital. The operation involves removing an area of skin and underlying fat, repositioning the tummy button (umbilicus). The resultant scar will initially be pink and will eventually return to normal skin colour and should appear just above the pubic hair.

Immediately after the operation the abdominal skin feels very tight. It is recommended that you have at least two weeks away from work and of course this may be increased should you have a very physical occupation. Your surgeon is the only person to advise you on this issue.

Abdominoplasty has always been a very popular aesthetic surgery request and patients who have undergone the procedure enjoy a return to their tight flat tummy.

Mini Tummy Tuck - Apronectomy

An Apronectomy or mini tummy tuck is less radical than the adominoplasty and is suitable for those patients who describe themselves as "having a shelf" below the tummy button.

Scarring will occur and must be considered with this procedure although the scars will initially be pink they will eventually return to a normal skin colour. Your surgeon will of course advise you with regards to the extent of any scarring.

The Apronectomy is a very successful operation and is often the only option left for people with excess skin. Certain patients may be suitable for liposculpturing without the tummy tuck, or they may benefit from both procedures, but this would be determined at consultation with your surgeon.

Your Consultation

Only an experienced Consultant Plastic Surgeon can give you an honest opinion as to whether any of these procedures are suitable for you. At PPS Ltd your initial, and all consultations will be with the surgeon who will be performing your operation and in this way you have access to the
best advice available.

You should explain exactly what results you are seeking, make sure that all of your questions are answered and listen to the advice and recommendations of your surgeon.

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