A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, removes excess fat and skin and repairs weakened muscles, creating a smoother, tighter abdominal profile. In cases where sagging in the abdominal shadow cannot be eliminated by exercise or diet, tummy tuck surgery is inevitable.
Abdominoplasty is suitable for both men and women who are in good general health and have a stable weight.
There are 3 methods:
1. Full abdominoplasty: The rate of fat and sagging in the abdominal area is higher in patients who apply this technique. During the operation, which takes between 2-3 hours, an incision line will be made extending the hip to the other hip. The belly button is separated its surroundings with a circular incision, without leaving its place like a sprout. The abdominal skin between the groin and the ribs is released. If there is any damage to the muscles in this area, it is repaired. Excess skin and fatty tissue are cut and removed the body. After the surgery, the incisions are closed with Dr.Nejat's special suturing method.
2. Mini tummy tuck: Its difference full tummy tuck surgery is that it is preferred in cases where there is not much sagging. The area around the belly button is not cut. The operation takes 1-2 hours. The procedures are very similar to a full tummy tuck surgery. At the end of the surgery, the incisions are closed with Dr.Nejat's special suturing method, just like in a full abdominoplasty.
3. FDL (Fleur-de-lis): It is a technique used to remove the skin both horizontally and vertically in post-bariatric patients, creating two separate scars. One horizontal across the lower abdomen and one vertical along the midline, with the final scar resulting in an upside-down "T".
In all three techniques, post-stitching dressing is applied after abdominoplasty. Tubes called drains are placed in the abdominal area to absorb the fluid that will occur in the area.
The experiences people will have after tummy tuck surgery and the points they should pay attention to are as follows:
- Generally, the person can eat and walk 3-4 hours after the surgery.
- It is necessary to wear a corset day and night for 2 months after the surgery.
- After the tummy tuck operation, the patient will have difficulty lying flat on the bed due to the tension in the abdominal area, so it is recommended that he lie down with his legs slightly pulled to his stomach and supported by a pillow.
- Sudden contractions, heavy lifting or sudden reflex movements should be avoided. Such movements may increase intra-abdominal pressure and strain postoperative stitches.
- After the drains are removed, patients can take a bath. However, the surgery area should be protected hard water impacts.
- Self-dissolving stitches are used inside and outside during the surgery.
- Creams can be used starting the second week after surgery to reduce scars.
- Abdominal exercises are not recommended in the first 6 weeks after the operation, especially if the abdominal muscles have been intervened. Instead, light exercises such as walking should be preferred.
- The full recovery period varies between 6 months and 1 year. Skin healing usually takes 10-15 days, and abdomen shaping takes 3-4 months.
- Lymphatic-drainage massage is recommended 2 days a week for 3 weeks after surgery.
The scars usually remain inside the underwear and are not noticeable. There may also be a scar on the edge of the navel, but it is not noticeable because it is in the belly button. Smoking prolongs the healing process and increases the risk of wound opening.
Yes, liposuction method can also be applied together with tummy tuck surgery. Because during the tummy tuck operation, while the front and side parts of the abdomen are shaped, there may be protrusions in the waist area. These areas can also be shaped with liposuction.
This surgery should not be performed on people who have no problems with their abdominal muscles and those who have chronic diseases. It is also not recommended for women who have not given birth. It can be applied to people with obesity problems to make their lives easier.
Anesthesia: General
Operation Time: 2-3 hours
Hospitalization Time: 1-2 days
Corset Use: 2 months
