Abdominal contouring as well as full body lift is indicated for those who have great excess of cutaneous tissue after weight loss. There is excess skin and fat, and stretch marks. The abdominal muscles lack tone. There could also be scars in the middle line due to prior gastric bypass cases.
The Plastic Surgery
This plastic surgery technique allows to resect an important volume of infraumbilical skin and fat and notably improves the abdominal contour leaving a low scar. The incision is suited to each particular patient.
Through the incision, the rectus abdominis muscles are sutured, to reduce the waistline, improving the shape of the abdominal wall. A new navel is created.
Abdominal liposuction is added in some cases (Lipo- Abdominoplasty). Two drainage tubes are left 48 or 72 hs routinely after a tummy tuck.
The navel is relocated, leaving a small scar around it.
Anesthesia used
General Anesthesia, plus tumescent local anesthesia.
Hospitalization
This plastic surgery requires a short stay, of generally less than 24 hours.
Post-operative Care
- Antibiotics
- Rest is indicated for 48 and 72 hours. Early mobilization helps to avoid vein thrombosis
- No physical activities, depending on the healing progress
- No sunbathing after 4 to 6 weeks
- Sports are allowed after a month and a half after plastic surgery
Post-operative Treatment
Sutures are removed after 15 days. Elastic garments are indicated for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery.