Abdominoplasty
Is a sagging tummy one of the features of your body that you absolutely don’t want? Excess skin and fat (“abdominal apron”) can appear even in people who exercise and have toned abdominal muscles. They occur in several situations: pregnancy, multiple abdominal surgeries, significant weight loss after diets or bariatric surgery. Hereditary factors also play an important role, as well as aging.
WHAT IS ABDOMINOPLASTY?
It is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, creating a flat abdominal profile. Abdominoplasty restores a firm look and an improved contour. The surgery is beneficial for both women and men who have lost significant weight.
TYPES OF ABDOMINOPLASTY
- Mini-abdominoplasty or partial abdominoplasty is needed when you have loose skin or localized fat below the navel, but not very pronounced;
- Total abdominoplasty – removes excess skin and fat from above the navel down to the pubic area, with repositioning of the navel;
- Circumferential abdominoplasty (incision around the waist, also provides a lift of the buttocks and thighs with navel repositioning) – an option after massive weight loss or bariatric surgery, when there are large amounts of sagging skin.
CAN I BENEFIT FROM ABDOMINOPLASTY?
Yes, if you lost significant weight and are left with excess skin.
Yes, if you have excess fat and skin that does not respond to diet and exercise.
Yes, if you had several pregnancies that caused the loss of abdominal elasticity.
WHAT SHOULD I KNOW BEFORE HAVING ABDOMINOPLASTY?
Abdominoplasty improves body contour and increases self-confidence, but you must have realistic expectations. It is not a weight-loss method, but rather is performed after you have already lost excess weight.
You should know that it is a risky procedure for obese patients, with a high rate of local and general complications – the most feared being fat embolism.
If you plan to have children, it is recommended to postpone abdominoplasty in order to achieve the desired results and avoid potential complications. Often, during the procedure, the rectus abdominal muscles are tightened through suturing along the midline, but during pregnancy, these muscles may separate again. Also, the scar may widen, requiring revision.
Ideal candidates for this surgery are women or men in good physical condition who, despite diet and exercise, cannot get rid of the abdominal apron. Abdominoplasty benefits women with multiple pregnancies who need removal of excess skin and fat as well as strengthening of the abdominal muscles.
