Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) is a surgical procedure that targets the abdomen, a prominent and aesthetically significant area of the body. After childbirth or significant weight loss, stretch marks, abdominal sagging, and bulges can occur due to the anatomical relaxation of the abdominal muscles. Abdominoplasty involves surgically removing excess skin and fat tissue from the lower and middle abdominal regions, as well as tightening the abdominal wall muscles. This procedure can greatly improve a person’s physical appearance, boost self-confidence, and enhance their quality of life. For detailed information about the general condition of patients who have undergone this surgery, you can contact our clinic by calling Dr. İbrahim OSKUİ.

The ideal candidates for abdominoplasty are women whose abdominal skin and muscles have been permanently deformed due to pregnancy and childbirth. However, this procedure is also recommended for women and men who have excess fat and loose skin in the abdominal area that cannot be resolved through diet or exercise. It is worth noting that abdominoplasty can yield positive results not only for middle-aged individuals but also for older patients.

Viewing abdominoplasty solely as a cosmetic operation would be incorrect. The excess skin and subcutaneous tissue in the abdominal area can create an asymmetric burden on the spine, potentially leading to conditions like herniated discs in the long run. By relieving the body from this unnecessary burden, abdominoplasty can significantly improve a person’s quality of life.

It is important for individuals who plan to undergo abdominoplasty and are in the process of a weight loss journey, with a significant weight loss planned, to postpone the surgery until after the weight loss process. Having undergone abdominoplasty does not prevent a new pregnancy, but it is advisable to wait for at least one year after the surgery. In short, women planning a pregnancy shortly after the surgery are recommended to delay abdominoplasty until after childbirth.

It should be noted that excessive smoking poses risks for individuals who wish to undergo abdominoplasty. It is recommended to quit smoking at least two weeks before the operation and refrain from smoking until two weeks after.

Abdominoplasty can be performed in two ways. In cases where there are only stretch marks and mild sagging in the lower abdominal area, a mini abdominoplasty can be performed. Total abdominoplasty is performed for individuals with significant stretch marks and pronounced sagging in the abdominal area.

Total abdominoplasty is carried out under general anesthesia in a fully equipped hospital and typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Patients are given sedative medications before the surgery. The incision is planned to be in a horizontal plane, within the area covered by underwear or swimsuits. A temporary drain may be placed to remove excess fluid that may accumulate in the area. Depending on the patient’s general condition, hospital care is required for 1-2 days, and there is no need for stitch removal.

Mini abdominoplasty, also performed under hospital conditions and general anesthesia, takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. The use of drains is generally not necessary, and the patient can even be discharged on the same day.

With the assistance of a caretaker, the patient can start getting up and walking on the day after the surgery. In the following days, they can walk unassisted but should avoid strenuous movements that put a strain on the abdomen. It is advised to refrain from heavy activities that burden the abdomen during the first week. Once the person feels well, they can resume office work after a rest period of 7-10 days. Wearing a compression garment or bandage is required for the first 2 weeks. Sports and exercise activities can be gradually resumed after 1 month.