An abdominoplasty (or “tummy tuck”) is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen and to tighten the underlying abdominal muscles. It also allows for the possible elimination of stretch marks, especially if they are located in the lower part of the abdomen. If required, liposuction of the waist may be performed at the same time for a more contoured waistline. The result is a flatter, firmer abdominal shape.

Ideal Candidates

The best candidates for surgery are women and men in good health, close to their ideal body weight and with reasonable expectations as to what surgery can provide. An abdominoplasty may address one or more of the following conditions:

• Excess or sagging abdominal skin
• A protruding abdomen
• Abdominal muscles weakened by pregnancy or weight loss
• Loss of definition or shape of the belly button
• Excess fat that is concentrated in the abdominal wall

Surgical Technique

Depending upon the amount of excess skin and fat as well as its location on the abdominal wall, there are several approaches to restoring a pleasing shape to the abdomen. The standard abdominoplasty is performed through an incision that is placed along the bikini line and extends towards the area of the hips The length of the scar depends upon the amount of excess skin that requires removal. A second incision may be made around the navel, allowing the excess skin to be pulled downward. Although the navel maintains its position, its appearance will be improved by removal of the excess skin around it. In cases where there is minimal skin excess and a protuberant lower abdomen, the incision can be kept within the pubic area only (mini abdominoplasty). Every effort is taken to try to keep the scar within your bathing suit lines. The decision of which technique is best for you depends upon your expectations and physical examination. We will discuss these issues with you in detail at the time of your consultation.

If you are a smoker, you will have to quit smoking for at least six weeks before the operation. Dr Efraim does NOT perform this procedure on smokers!

Abdominoplasty surgery is performed under general anesthesia and most patients will spend two nights in hospital/surgical clinic. Most patients are back to normal daily activities within two weeks, but are asked to avoid heavy physical activity and heavy lifting for 6 weeks.

Dr Efraim will come to mark you before the procedure. The duration of the procedure is 2-3 hours. Coming out of surgery, your wounds will be covered by a waterproof dressing and drainage tubes will be in place. You will also have a urinary catheter inserted so that you will not need to go to the toilet in the first 24 hours. An abdominal binder will usually be fitted in theatre, and you will need to wear that for at least 10-14 days.

You will usually be discharged on the second post-operative day, and most likely with the drainage tubes still in place. You will be shown how to empty and measure the contents of the Portovac drains twice daily at home. When the drainage diminishes to about 30ml over twelve hours, the drains can be removed.

Your first follow-up visit with Dr Efraim will be after one week. Dressings will be removed and the wounds inspected.

Abdominoplasty is a painful procedure, because of the tightening of the abdominal muscles. You will receive a prescription for good pain medication. You will have to take this regularly for the first 3-4 days.

Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) is one of the most dreaded complications of abdominoplasty, and therefore we take every possible precaution to prevent it. You will have to get a subcutaneous Clexane® injection every day for at least 14-18 days.

What To Expect

Following an abdominoplasty, you can expect to have a tighter and firmer abdomen with an improved overall contour. Maximum results can be achieved when surgery is combined with exercise, toning , weight control and maintenance of a healthy lifestyle.

Risks & Complications

Although most patients undergo abdominoplasty with very few complications, it is important for you to be well informed of the risks and potential benefits. These issues will be discussed with you in detail at your initial consultation. Patients can maximize their chances of a successful result by following their pre- and post-operative instructions, eating well and refraining from smoking.