
tummy tuck
A tummy tuck, medically known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen, tighten the abdominal muscles, and achieve a smoother, more toned abdominal contour. This procedure is often performed on people who have stubborn deposits of skin and fat on their abdomen despite diet and exercise, or whose abdomen has become very saggy after pregnancy or significant weight loss.
Goals and Benefits of Abdominoplasty
- reduction of excess skin: Removal of excess skin that often remains after pregnancy or significant weight loss.
- degreaser: Removal of fat deposits that cannot be eliminated through diet and exercise.
- tightening of the abdominal muscles: Reconstruction and tightening of weakened or stretched abdominal muscles to achieve a firmer and tighter abdominal region.
- improvement of body contours: Improve abdominal shape and contour for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
- Relief from discomfort: Many patients report an improvement in physical complaints such as skin irritations or back problems caused by excess skin and fat.
Benefits of a Tummy Tuck
Targeted fat removal
Removal of stubborn fat from specific areas of the body.
Fast recovery
Many patients return to their normal activities after a few days.
Improved body contours
The result is a slimmer and better proportioned body shape.
Abdominoplasty procedure
Rules of conduct before and after a tummy tuck
Rules of conduct before tummy tuck surgery
1. preparation
- Taking medication: Avoid blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain supplements such as vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids, which can increase the risk of bleeding, for at least two weeks before surgery. Your doctor will give you a detailed list of medications to avoid.
- Smoking and alcohol: Stop smoking and reduce alcohol consumption at least two weeks before surgery. Nicotine impairs wound healing and increases the risk of complications. Alcohol can affect blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding.
- Nutrition and hydration: Make sure you eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water. Good nutrition and hydration support the healing process.
- Medical examinations: You may need to have certain medical tests or screenings. Your doctor will advise you of which tests are needed.
- Skin care: Avoid using harsh skin care products or lotions on the abdominal area before surgery to prevent skin irritation.
Rules of conduct after tummy tuck
1. Immediately after the operation
- Pain management: Follow your doctor's instructions about taking pain medication to relieve postoperative discomfort. Avoid blood-thinning pain medication unless otherwise recommended by your doctor.
- wear compression garments: Wear the compression garment or bandage recommended by your doctor around the clock to reduce swelling and help the skin adjust to the new contour. This should usually be done for at least four to six weeks.
- Sleep: Sleep in a slightly elevated position (on your back with several pillows) to minimize swelling and aid the healing process.
2. First days and weeks after the operation
- Physical conservation: Avoid strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting, and anything that puts pressure on the abdominal region for at least four to six weeks. Your doctor will give you specific instructions about when you can start lighter activities again.
- skin care and wound care: Keep surgical wounds clean and dry. Follow your doctor's instructions for caring for incisions and changing dressings.
- Showering and bathing: You can usually shower again after about 48 hours. However, avoid baths, saunas and swimming pools until the wounds have completely healed.
- Nutrition and hydration: Continue to eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water. Good hydration aids healing.
3. Signs of complications
- Observe symptoms: Be alert for unusual symptoms such as severe pain, excessive swelling, redness, fever, or drainage of fluid from the wounds. If you experience such symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately.
Long-term care and results
- results visible: The final results are often visible after a few months, when swelling has subsided and the skin has fully adapted to the new shape.
- preservation of results: To maintain long-term results, you should maintain a stable weight and eat a healthy diet. Weight fluctuations or future pregnancies can affect the results. By carefully following these rules of conduct, you can support the healing process after a tummy tuck and achieve the best possible results.
FAQ
What scars remain after the operation?
A horizontal scar is created in the lower abdomen area, usually along the bikini line. With a complete tummy tuck, a scar can also form around the belly button.
Can a tummy tuck remove stretch marks?
Stretch marks in the area of the excess skin removed may be reduced or eliminated. However, residual stretch marks may remain above the belly button.
When can I exercise again?
Light physical activity can be started after about 4 to 6 weeks. Intensive training should only be started after approval from the doctor.
How long does full recovery take?
Full recovery may take up to 6 months. Swelling and scarring will improve over time.
Will I be in pain after the operation?
Pain and discomfort are normal in the first few days and can be treated with painkillers.