Abdominoplasty: Restore a flat and firm abdomen
What is abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty, also known as dermolipectomy, is a surgical procedure focused on improving the aesthetics of the abdomen. This technique not only eliminates excess abdominal skin and fat but can also include tightening the abdominal muscles to improve body shape and contour. Although primarily considered a cosmetic procedure, abdominoplasty can also offer functional benefits, such as improving comfort and facilitating muscle repair.
Are you thinking about getting an abdominoplasty?
If abdominal cosmetic surgery is something you are considering book an appointment with one of our expert surgeons. Depending on your personal goals and expectations, our specialists will offer you a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
What you need to know about treatment
- Procedure duration: 3 hours
- Recovery: 2 weeks
- Visible Results: 1 month
- Effects: Long-lasting
- Anesthesia: General or epidural
- Hospital stay: 2 nights
- Price: Subject to diagnosis
Different techniques of abdominoplasty
The initial examination and clinical diagnosis will allow the plastic surgeon to develop the best intervention strategy. Depending on the patient’s needs, they will perform one technique or another:
This technique is especially interesting for young patients who still have good muscle tone in the stomach area. Liposuction of the abdomen involves the removal of fatty masses located in the abdomen. This technique is sometimes used as an adjunct to a tummy tuck.
This procedure involves tightening the skin of the abdomen and possibly the abdominal muscles.
When the excess skin (and possibly fat) is located in the lower abdomen, a mini-abdominoplasty is possible. It is a lighter procedure than abdominoplasty, but does not treat diastasis.
Abdominoplasty is the most comprehensive abdominal surgery. It consists of removing a portion of skin between the navel and the pubic area and tightening the skin. During this surgery, excess fat can be removed by liposuction and distended muscles can be tightened. Umbilical transposition (repositioning of the umbilicus) may also be indicated. At the end of the operation, a shaping bandage is applied and a support is fitted.
Who can undergo an abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty is suitable for both men and women and is especially recommended in situations such as:
- Significant loss of muscle tone and elasticity due to various factors.
- Significant weight loss that has left excess skin.
- Multiple pregnancies have altered the shape of the abdomen.
- Presence of extensive scars or stretch marks due to surgeries or skin stretching.
It is important to note that abdominoplasty is not a weight loss technique but a method to reshape and improve the contour of the abdomen, ideally after achieving a stable weight through diet or exercise.
At Turó Park Aesthetic, we are committed to your well-being before, during, and after the procedure, ensuring professionalism not only in the treatment but also on the road to recovery.
Abdominoplasty step by step
The first meeting with the surgeon allows you to understand the operation, its benefits, and risks, and to get to know the responsible doctor. This consultation is crucial to evaluate the patient’s expectations, review their medical history, and ensure there are no medical or psychological contraindications. Based on the patient’s needs and expectations, a personalized treatment plan will be developed.
Abdominoplasty requires a 24-hour hospital stay and fasting for 6 hours before. The surgery, under general anesthesia, lasts from 1 to 2.5 hours, including the placement of silicone drains and a compressive bandage that is removed before discharge. Dressings are necessary for 8 to 10 days, and the doctor will detail the postoperative follow-up.
The hospitalization after an abdominoplasty lasts 2 days. A drainage system and a girdle are installed, which must be worn for 2-4 weeks. Showering, bathing, swimming, and using a jacuzzi are prohibited for 4 weeks, as is physical activity. During the hospital stay and at home, painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications are administered. A postoperative appointment with the surgeon to review the scars is necessary.
Our specialists are just a click away. Schedule your initial consultation and receive a treatment plan tailored specifically for you.
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Frequently asked questions about abdominoplasty
In most cases, the procedure itself is not painful due to the use of anesthesia. Additionally, if you experience any discomfort after the procedure, pain relief will be provided.
As with any surgical procedure, there is no zero risk associated. After the operation, some complications may arise, such as bruising, infections, leaks related to lymphatic flow, and fat leakage. Additionally, skin necrosis may occur, especially in patients with diabetes or those who smoke. Other possible effects include changes in the sensitivity of the abdominal wall and thromboembolic events, such as phlebitis or pulmonary embolism, although these are rare.
Pregnancy is possible after an abdominoplasty. However, it is advisable to wait between 6 months and 1 year after the operation.
In general, it is estimated that your weight should be around the number of centimeters above the patient’s height. For example, for an adult who is 1.65 m tall, the ideal weight before an abdominoplasty should be 65 kg (or less).
It is advisable to wait at least until the age of 18 (at the end of the growth period) before considering any procedure, but not after the age of 60.