Abdominoplasty
- Approximate duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Anesthesia: General
- Recovery: 4 to 6 weeks
Who is this procedure suitable for?
Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is for people who have excess sagging skin in the abdomen, often as a result of pregnancy, significant weight loss or simply aging. When this loose skin is surgically removed, it is called a tummy tuck. As with liposuction, abdominoplasty is not intended to correct obesity: patients must be at or near normal weight before surgery.
Are there other solutions to remove excess belly?
When considering alternatives to tummy tuck in Montreal, remember that “if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” Many expensive devices on the market claim to remove fat or tighten abdominal skin without incisions, surgery, anesthesia, etc. Sounds too good to be true? That’s because it is. Many clinics buy these expensive machines to attract patients; moreover, they do not hesitate to pass on the cost of these devices to patients. Ask for a guarantee of results, and see how they react. Dr. Nicolaidis uses only proven and sustainable techniques. In Montreal, abdominoplasty is a recognized and reliable technique, to which all others are inferior.
Will there be a scar and will it be visible?
Yes, a scar is inevitable, as it is not possible to remove excess skin and abdominal tissue without leaving traces. Abdominoplasty usually involves long incisions, which also results in longer scars. Dr. Nicolaidis is committed to positioning these scars in such a way as to make them as discreet as possible, often hidden in the bikini line.
Although scars fade over time, it is important to know that they are permanent and that their final appearance can vary from person to person, both in terms of width and relief or color.
When the excess skin is limited to the area below the belly button, a mini-tummy tuck may be considered, with shorter scars. On the other hand, if the sagging skin extends to the front, sides, and back, a circular lipectomy may be necessary. In this case, the scar goes all the way around the trunk, like a belt.
Why is an initial consultation necessary if my decision has already been made?
The consultation for a tummy tuck fulfills several essential functions. First, it allows Dr. Nicolaidis to examine your abdomen to determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure. He will evaluate the quality of your abdominal skin, the amount of fatty tissue, the degree of separation of the abdominal muscles (diastasis) and your morphological type; in addition, he must ensure that no hernias are present. Dr. Nicolaidis will also take the time to discuss your overall health, medical and surgical history with you. He will be interested in your motivations and the results you hope to achieve. This consultation is also an opportunity to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision, including a full explanation of the risks associated with the procedure.
Surgical and post-operative details
Anaesthesia
Dr. Nicolaidis always performs this procedure under general anesthesia.
Surgical techniques
Abdominoplasty involves tightening the sagging skin of the belly by removing excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen, and then draping the remaining skin downwards to reduce sagging and folds. This surgery can be combined with liposuction to improve fat bulges (but not to tighten the skin). Abdominal muscles that are too far apart in the center (diastasis) can also be brought together.
Return to work
After a tummy tuck, it is usually possible to return to work after 4 to 6 weeks.
Possible complications
The most common complications of body contouring surgery are hematoma (pooling of blood under the skin), seroma (fluid buildup), and skin numbness. In the majority of cases, sensitivity returns gradually. Large hematomas or seromas may require surgery to drain blood or fluid. Healing difficulties can also occur, especially in people who smoke.
Post-surgery advice
The first week
- Keep your dressings dry and clean. It is therefore recommended to wash yourself with a sponge.
- Do not force your abs or arms.
- Note the amount of drainage per day per drain. Bring this data to your next appointment with Dr. Nicolaidis.
- Wear your compression garments at all times.
- Walk for at least 5 minutes every hour during the day.
- Keep the body slightly bent at the hips to avoid any tension on the operated area.
- Don’t stay in bed all the time, as this can lead to blood clots.
Your first post-operative appointment with Dr. Nicolaidis is very important, even if you feel very well.
After the first week
- Continue to keep your dressings dry and clean and sponge clean. Yes, we know, you’ve had enough, but it’s almost over.
- Protect your scars from the sun for 6 months.
- Avoid lifting heavy objects until Dr. Nicolaidis clears you to do so.
- Before taking a bath or shower, first ask for Dr. Nicolaidis’ approval.
- Continue to wear compression garments until Dr. Nicolaidis tells you otherwise.
- Continue to move regularly to avoid complications due to a sedentary lifestyle, such as blood clots.
Please note
- It is normal to have slight swelling and bruising in the abdomen during the first few weeks after surgery.
- For your comfort, be sure to take your pain relievers as prescribed.
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