ABDOMINOPLASTY

Abdominoplasty is a common surgical operation for women after pregnancy but it is also suitable for obese men and women. It involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightening the muscles and fascia of the abdominal wall. It is used to tone, firm and define the abdominal area.

In general, it follows the following steps. A horizontal incision is made above the pubic area. A flap of skin and sub-cutaneous fat of the abdomen is detached. Another incision is made to free the navel from the surrounding skin. The abdominal muscle fascia wall is tightened. The abdominal flap is stretched downwards and excess skin is removed. The flap is stitched back into place. The original navel is reattached into a newly created hole on the belly wall.

Liposuction is often used on the area of the stomach and on the side wall of the belly to achieve desirable results. The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and the patient normally stays in the clinic for 2-3 days. A special dressing (compression garment) must be worn continuously for about one month. The stitches are removed after 15 days and the patient gradually resumes daily life activities. Exercise and gymnastics can be resumed one month after the operation.

The resulting horizontal scar is low in the pubic area and is placed under the swimsuit line so it is covered by under wear or a bikini. Scar texture can be improved using special ointments, silicone sheets and lasers.