Tummy Tuck – Body Contouring Implants
A full tummy tuck, described in this animation, is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess fat and loose skin, and includes tightenting muscles in the abdominal wall.
A partial, or mini tummy tuck involves removing excess fat and loose skin below the navel, and is described in a separate animation.
Tummy Tuck can be done alone. However, it is often done in conjunction with liposuction to further improve body contours.
People considering tummy tuck surgery should be healthy, relatively fit, and should not plan future pregnancies, as tense muscles can regress.
Preparation
A full tummy tuck may be done under local anesthesia with sedation, where the abdominal area is numb and you are relaxed and comfortable.
Alternatively, you may be completely asleep, under general anesthesia. The length of the procedure can vary, depending on the extent of tissue removal, and whether liposuction is also performed.
Procedure
Your surgeon will make an incision just above the groin area. The incision is typically made where it is hidden by swimwear or underwear. But it is important to understand that you will have a scar.
A second incision is made around the navel to free the navel from the surrounding tissue. The skin and fat layers on the abdominal wall are lifted up. And the abdominal muscles appear.
Your surgeon will suture these muscles. And by bringing them closer together, it will create a flatter, tighter abdominal wall and a slimmer waist.
After the muscles are stretched, the skin and fat layer is stretched over the abdominal wall. And a new hole is made for your navel.
Excess skin and fat that hangs beyond the original incision is removed.
Drainage tubes are usually inserted into the abdomen through small holes at the bottom of the incision and allow fluids to escape as you heal.
The incisions will be stitched and bandages will be applied.
Recovery and Results
You will most likely need to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and provide comfort and support as you heal.
Drainage tubes and sutures are usually removed within a week or two after the surgery.
As with any major surgery, pain, bruising, and swelling are normal, and will typically subside within several weeks.
Your scar will fade considerably over time and with proper diet and exercise, you can enjoy a firmer, flatter abdomen for years.
