Procedure:
The excess skin and fat are removed surgically from the abdominal area. Depending on the needs of the patient, the muscles of the abdominal wall are also tightened. The incision is a half moon shape (length dependant on the amount of skin and fat to be removed), and is usually made directly under the overhanging skin. If the skin of the abdominal wall is re-draped over the muscles, then there is a need to re-site the tummy button (umbilicoplasty). If the excess skin from the lower abdomen only is removed (mini-abdominoplasty) then this is a much less invasive operation. In patients who have lost a great deal of weight, the normal abdominoplasty can be extended to include the hip area (extended abdominoplasty) or taken completely around the lower body (total body lift).
Length:
Approximately two to four hours.
Anaesthesia:
Most commonly patients are placed under general anaesthesia. The mini-abdominoplasty procedure can also be performed using a regional nerve block that is obtained with local anaesthetic agents.
Inpatient/Outpatient:
It is usual to perform an abdominoplasty as an inpatient with one night stay in hospital following the surgery. The mini-abdominoplasty procedure can be carried out as a daycase operation.
Possible Side Effects:
Temporary discomfort, post-operative swelling, soreness or tenderness in the surrounding areas, numbness of abdominal skin and bruising are possible side effects.
Risks:
Infection, bleeding under the skin flap or at the incision site, pulmonary embolism (a blood clot that travels to the lung), scarring (keloids), delayed healing, or the need for a second reversionary operation are potential risks. Long-term there may be some slight irregularities or minor differences between the sides that can usually be adjusted simply.
Recovery:
The patient may return to work within two to four weeks. After evaluation by Mr Harris, the patient may return to more strenuous activity after approximately four to six weeks. Scars should fade and flatten anywhere from three months to one year after surgery.
