Abdominoplasty

With increasing participation in outdoor activities and less restrictive general attitudes towards revealing styles, greater attention is directed to the size and shapes of our bodies. We are also more conscious of our weight as it relates to general health and social acceptance. It is not at all surprising, therefore, to find greater interest in those surgical procedures that can be selectively employed for figure improvement.

Surgical procedures of this kind are not directed toward weight reduction, which is still a dietary problem. Surgery does, however, afford an opportunity to correct some of those conditions, which result from earlier obesity and pregnancy. There are also some situations, familial in nature, they may considered for correction.

Abdominoplasty is an operation performed to remove excess fatty tissue and skin folds in the mid to lower abdominal region, most often accompanied by stretching of all abdominal structures resulting from pregnancies. Diet and exercise alone cannot provide correction, since the deformity stems primarily from structural change. Repair may include tightening of the abdominal supportive structures and surgical removal of the excess skin folds.

There are many variables and several methods that can be employed. The basic operation involves raising of the abdominal skin and fatty tissue, stretching it in a downward direction and removing excess with the suture line closure within the so-called "Bikini Line". Repair of muscular supportive structures is done at the same time. The operation frequently requires repositioning the navel to a higher level.

In considering abdominoplasty from a strictly elective standpoint (that is when no other surgery is required) one must consider the question of post-operative scarring, which may take as long as 6 to 12 months for resolution. There will always be some permanent mark. The question is whether or not the redundant abdominal folds are of such a degree that the scars are preferable. Minor degrees of abdominal wrinkling or looseness should not be treated surgically. Other circumstance may give rise to abdominal surgery. Old cesarean scars may be partially or totally eliminated by this procedure. In this connection, the trade of an old of one that is less obtrusive may be an appropriate choice.

Surgical risks in abdominoplasty, relative to the local changes alone, are limited. Soft tissue loss, secondary infection, or collection of fluid under the skin are always possible, but can be treated quite successfully.

Generally speaking, abdominoplasty as a separate procedure carries that same risk as any other major surgical operation. Since the patient is usually in good health beforehand, the dangers are significantly lessened.

Other types of body contour surgery involve the upper arms, buttocks and thighs. These procedures are usually considered when significant weight loss has occurred with notable sagging of the soft tissues. weight should be stable over a period of time long enough to limit the possibility of repeated fluctuation. Surgical advantages must be weighed against the anticipated surgical scars.

Reduction of thighs and buttock can reasonably be accomplished when there is significant sagging or looseness in the soft tissue. The possible improvements are otherwise limited, and this type of surgery should not be considered in most circumstances where no notable weight loss has occurred Body contour surgical procedures are highly selective and should not be considered as a substitute for controlled weight reduction programmers. The purpose is only to provide assistance in achieving a positive body image when more conservative means are ineffective.

How long does it take?
The procedure itself takes up to four hours. You will then normally stay in hospital for two nights. About 10 days after the procedure the stitches are removed.

When do I look normal?
You will immediately have a flat tummy and the scars will heal in approximately 6 weeks, but will continue to flatten and fade over a 6 to 12 month period.

For further information and an initial complimentary consultation with a counselor, please contact your nearest Australian Aesthetic Surgery Centre.