Abdominoplasty, often known as a tummy tuck, is a well-known plastic surgery procedure that reshapes the abdomen by removing extra skin and tightening the abdominal muscles. It is commonly done on patients with extra or loose muscle and skin in the abdominal region, usually after major weight reduction or post-pregnancy. While a tummy tuck can offer a man and woman’s self-esteem a much-needed boost, it is hardly a hasty decision to consider.
Thus, before committing to this possibly life-changing surgery at The Clifford Surgery Clinic, we encourage you to ask yourself the following questions:
1. Who am I doing this for?
Pertaining to any plastic surgery matters, the inevitable question of ‘who am I really doing this for?’ should be properly addressed before making the big decision. It is terrific if you are having a tummy tuck to please yourself and get rid of a source of self-consciousness. But whatever the decision, it would ultimately be best to do the surgery for yourself and not for others.
2. Which type of abdominoplasty am I looking at getting?
Just like how there are different approaches to rhinoplasty, the same can be said about abdominoplasty. The type of abdominoplasty you eventually get depends on the extent and position of loose skin and muscle on your abdomen. Our highly trained surgeon will examine your body and help you determine the most suitable procedure among the two:
- Full tummy tuck
A full tummy tuck works best for individuals who have extra loose skin or weakening abdominal muscles. It is referred to as a full tummy tuck when the whole abdominal wall gets involved. First, our reputable surgeon will make two incisions: one around the navel and one above the pelvic line. Following that, a third incision will be made at the new navel position before superfluous skin is cut. When all is done, the incisions are closed.
- Mini tummy tuck
A mini tummy tuck consists of operating only on the lower abdomen. It is the ideal option for people who acquire loose skin below the belly button. The procedure begins as our highly trained plastic surgeon performs a comparable but smaller incision to uncover the lower abdomen along the pelvic line. The second and third incisions are not necessary since the navel is not shifted with a mini tummy tuck. They are similarly tightened before the skin flap is brought over to cover the muscles and tissues.
Key differences between the two procedures
A full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck are two distinct operations in many aspects. The mini tummy tuck is a less invasive, quicker procedure that can be performed under local anesthetic depending on the extent of work conducted. It also has a faster recovery period due to its lesser degree of invasiveness at about one to three weeks. As a mini tummy tuck includes a smaller incision site, it carries fewer risks than a full tummy tuck.
On the other hand, a full tummy tuck can be an intensive procedure lasting up to four hours with a six-week recuperation time. During this period, the patient’s physical activity may be limited. Additionally, the incision and scar produced may be considerably bigger. A full tummy tuck has higher risks than a mini tummy tuck since it needs general anesthesia. However, it offers the advantage of treating muscle separation and tightening the abdominal muscles, which cannot be done with a mini tummy tuck.
At the end of the day, regardless of the procedure, it would be good to always consult a highly-trained doctor who can best advise you on your next steps.
3. Will I need liposuction as well, or should I exclude it?
While the tummy tuck surgery works exceptionally well when combined with liposuction since the two procedures have synergistic results, they accomplish two varying goals altogether. A tummy tuck removes extra skin, tightens muscles, and repositions elements of the abdominal area, whereas liposuction eliminates fat cells. There is a chance that you may only profit from one or the other. But if you can benefit from both, having them done simultaneously has its advantages.
For instance, you will see more measurable effects in less time. Additionally, you will only have to worry about one surgery. Liposuction, like abdominoplasty, involves a physical recovery phase. As a result, recovering after two surgeries at one go may be deemed more efficient.
4. Can I afford to stay off my feet during the recovery phase?
Abdominoplasty is a serious operation that necessitates a lengthy recovery period. Patients are required to take ten days or more of outpatient medical leave following abdominoplasty, depending on their recuperation and type of surgery. After that, most sedentary and mild activities can be resumed. Patients whose jobs entail more rigorous activities, such as standing for lengthy periods of time, will be obliged to take at least 14 days of medical leave. We recommend that you spend most of your recovery period resting, so do make the necessary arrangements with your loved ones and boss before deciding on tummy tuck surgery.
5. Will I be able to live with a permanent scar?
Numerous plastic surgery operations include a trade-off between a desired aesthetic enhancement and (typically very modest) scarring. The satisfaction gained through plastic surgery is undoubtedly worth the scarring for millions of individuals each year. Nonetheless, it is still crucial to understand what you are getting yourself into. Fortunately, a skilled surgeon can accomplish little scarring and conceal the required incisions. The scar can be readily hidden beneath regular clothing or undergarments.
Clear your concerns with The Clifford Surgery Clinic
Ultimately, the only way to know for certain whether a tummy tuck – or any other plastic surgery procedure – is the right choice for you is to be assessed by a professional. Suppose you are pondering about any type of plastic surgery, whether it be breast implants or ptosis repair in Singapore for droopy eyelids, and would like to talk to an expert plastic surgeon about your choices. In that case, The Clifford Surgery Clinic can help in that regard. Specializing in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, our renowned plastic surgeon is well-known to be a meticulous individual with excellent attention to detail. With years of professional experience coupled with relevant training in surgery, microsurgery, and supermicrosurgery, rest assured that you are in good hands. Simply call us to schedule a consultation and have peace of mind as we do our best to guide you along the way.