Abdominoplast

Types of abdominoplasty

Traditional tummy tuck (full abdominoplasty):

This procedure treats the entire abdominal area, removing excess skin and fat and tightening the abdominal muscles. It is suitable for people with significant skin laxity and muscle separation.

Mini tummy tuck (mini abdominoplasty):

This less invasive procedure focuses on the lower abdomen, below the belly button, and is best suited for individuals with mild to moderate skin excess and minimal muscle separation.

Extended abdominoplasty:

An extended tummy tuck treats the abdomen and flanks to achieve more comprehensive contouring. This procedure is often recommended for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss.

Circumferential body lift:

This procedure combines a traditional tummy tuck with a buttock and thigh lift to remove excess skin and fat from the entire lower torso.

Fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty:

This technique involves making a vertical and a horizontal incision, resulting in a T-shaped scar. It is suitable for patients with significant excess skin in both the vertical and horizontal dimensions, often due to massive weight loss.

Rectus diastasis, also known as diastasis recti or recti diastasis, is a condition that occurs when the two large parallel muscles in front of the abdominal wall, known as the rectus abdominis muscles, separate more than they should. This separation creates a gap between the muscles and most commonly occurs in pregnant women and individuals who have experienced significant stretching or strain of the abdominal muscles.

The medical procedure to correct rectus diastasis is called “abdominal muscle repair” or “diastasis recti repair.” It is a surgical procedure to bring the separated rectus abdominis muscles back together and strengthen the abdominal wall.

Reasons for a tummy tuck

Weight loss:

A tummy tuck can remove excess skin and fat left behind after significant weight loss, improving body contour and comfort.

Changes after pregnancy:

Pregnancy can lead to stretched skin, separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), and stubborn fat deposits. A tummy tuck can help restore your pre-pregnancy appearance.

Aging:

With age, skin elasticity decreases and fat distribution can change, resulting in a less firm and contoured abdomen. A tummy tuck can help counteract these changes.

Genetic predisposition:

Some people have a genetic predisposition to excess abdominal fat or sagging skin, which can be treated with a tummy tuck.

Determining suitability for a tummy tuck

Age and general health:

Candidates for a tummy tuck should be in good health and preferably non-smokers, as smoking can increase the risk of complications.

Realistic expectations:

It is important to be aware of the possible results and limitations of a tummy tuck in order to be satisfied with the outcome.

Stable weight:

Candidates should have reached their ideal weight, as significant weight fluctuations can affect the outcome of the procedure.

Non-smoker status:

Smoking can negatively affect wound healing and increase the risk of complications. It is recommended to quit smoking before the operation and during the recovery period.

Overview of surgical techniques

Traditional abdominoplasty:

This technique involves making a horizontal incision from hip to hip, just above the pubic area, and another incision around the navel. Excess skin and fat are removed, and the abdominal muscles are tightened before the incisions are closed.

Mini-abdominoplasty:

Similar to traditional abdominoplasty, a smaller horizontal incision is made, but it is concentrated only on the lower abdomen. The skin is tightened and excess fat is removed, with minimal tightening of the muscles.

Flankplasty:

In addition to the horizontal incisions of a traditional tummy tuck, an extended tummy tuck also involves incisions in the flanks, allowing for more comprehensive contouring.

Circumferential abdominoplasty:

This procedure involves a horizontal incision that extends around the entire lower torso. Excess skin and fat are removed, and the remaining skin is tightened to achieve a more contoured appearance.

Fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty:

In addition to the horizontal incision, a vertical incision is made from the lower sternum to the pubic area. This allows for the removal of excess skin in both the vertical and horizontal directions.