Get to Know… Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck, Lipectomy)
Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is the surgical removal of excess fat tissue and skin from the middle and lower abdomen that protrudes outward. This protrusion of the abdominal skin layer is caused by prolonged stretching of the skin, resulting in loss of elasticity, which may be due to obesity or pregnancy.
After weight loss or childbirth, the abdominal skin does not retract, causing it to protrude and become excess skin. Additionally, stretch marks may occur due to tearing of the muscles beneath the stretched skin layer following body changes.
Generally, for younger patients, doctors may use liposuction alone because younger skin has better elasticity than older skin. However, if liposuction is not sufficient, the doctor will perform an abdominoplasty to tighten the sagging abdomen, commonly known as a tummy tuck.
Who is Suitable for Abdominal Tightening?
- Those with sagging abdominal skin and fat layers, applicable to both women and men
- Those with sagging abdominal skin after childbirth
- Those with a large accumulation of fat in the abdominal area
How is the Surgery Performed?
For the surgical procedure, the surgeon will examine each patient. The surgery takes about 3-4 hours. Before surgery, the doctor will mark an incision line across the width of the patient’s torso, with the meeting points at the hip bones on both sides. Viewed from the front, the lower incision line resembles the letter V in English, but with a flat-bottomed shape. Another incision line will be made around the navel. During surgery, the doctor will tighten the sagging abdominal muscles and reconstruct the navel, so there is no need to worry about an unattractive abdomen.
After surgery, recovery takes about 1-2 weeks. The surgical scars will begin to fade within 3-6 months post-operation, ensuring a smooth recovery under the care of a specialized medical team…
Caring for Surgical Wounds is Not Difficult
For post-surgery care, patients should rest quietly in bed alternating with short walks during the first 2-3 days after surgery. Care should be taken to avoid actions that may strain the abdominal muscles, such as coughing, sneezing, or laughing, as these may cause injury. Light exercise can be started 2-4 weeks after surgery.
How to Prepare if Interested in Surgery?
- Consult with a plastic surgeon to receive proper advice and preparation instructions
- Inform about any allergies to medications or supplements currently used before surgery
- If having any underlying diseases, inform the doctor in advance to consult with a specialist before surgery
- Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and vitamin E for 2 weeks prior to surgery
- Refrain from smoking before and after surgery
Dr. Kanit Witayawanitchai
Specialist Surgeon in Plastic Surgery
(Head Physician of the Beauty Center)
Beauty Center, Phyathai 2 Hospital
