Abdominoplasty
Overview
Procedure Overview
What is an Abdominoplasty?
Are you looking for a way to regain a flat, toned stomach after pregnancy, weight loss, or simply due to ageing? Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, can be a life-changing procedure for those seeking a smoother, more contoured abdomen (because tummy tuck does affect all the front of the abdomen and not just the mid-section). At The Westbourne Centre in Birmingham, Hiroshi offers personalised abdominoplasty surgery to help you achieve your desired results. An abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and tightens weakened abdominal muscles to create a flatter, firmer stomach.
Types of Tummy Tuck Offered
There are two main types of abdominoplasty offered by Hiroshi:
Mini Tummy Tuck: A less invasive procedure ideal for patients with mild to moderate laxity in the lower abdomen, often after childbirth (a “mommy makeover”) or weight loss. It addresses the area below the belly button and typically results in a shorter scar.
A more comprehensive procedure addresses the entire abdomen, from the ribs to the pubic area. It removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal muscles, resulting in a more dramatic improvement and a longer scar.
Benefits of Abdominoplasty Surgery
Tummy tuck surgery offers numerous benefits including:
Improved Body Contour: Abdominoplasty removes excess skin and tightens loose muscles, creating a flatter, more toned stomach.
Increased Confidence: By achieving a more sculpted abdomen, especially in the mid- section. Patients often experience a boost in self-confidence and improved body image.
Enhanced Clothing Fit: A smoother stomach allows for better clothing fit and a wider range of outfit options.
Reduced Back Pain: In some cases, a weak abdominal wall can contribute to back pain. Tightening the muscles during an abdominoplasty may alleviate this discomfort.
Improved Postpartum Appearance: For women who have had children, a tummy tuck can address loose skin and stretched muscles, helping them regain a pre-pregnancy shape. (Note: A c-section scar revision can often be incorporated into the tummy tuck procedure.)
Arrange Your ConsultationWho is Abdominoplasty For?
Abdominoplasty is ideal for patients who:
Have significant loose skin in the abdomen due to pregnancy, weight loss, or ageing.
Have weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti).
Are at a stable weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Have realistic expectations about the procedure and recovery process.
Mini Tummy Tuck Candidates:
- Patients with mild to moderate loose skin in the lower abdomen.
- Individuals with good skin tone above the belly button.
- Those seeking a shorter scar and less invasive procedure.
Full Tummy Tuck Candidates:
- Patients with significant excess skin throughout the abdomen.
- Individuals with stretched or separated muscles across the entire abdominal wall.
- Those seeking a more dramatic improvement in their stomach appearance.
It’s important to understand that abdominoplasty is not a weight loss procedure nor is it suitable for obese patients.
For optimal safety and results, patients should be at a stable, healthy weight with a Body Mass Index (BMI) generally below 30. While this figure is a guideline, there can be some flexibility in certain situations.
For instance, exceptionally large amounts of excess skin can sometimes impede mobility and make further weight loss difficult. In these rare cases, exceptions may be considered. However, these situations fall under the specialised field of bariatric surgery, which focuses on weight loss procedures and is distinct from cosmetic surgery.
Complications
As with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications associated with abdominoplasty. Hiroshi will discuss these thoroughly during your consultation. Some potential risks include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Swelling due to temporary fluid collection
- Scarring
- Numbness
- Changes in skin sensation
What to Expect - Consultation to Surgery
The journey to your new, sculpted midsection begins with a comprehensive consultation at The Westbourne Centre. During your consultation, Hiroshi will:
- Discuss your goals and expectations for abdominoplasty.
- Evaluate your medical history and perform a physical examination.
- Explain the different types of tummy tuck procedures and recommend the most suitable option for you.
- Discuss the risks and potential complications of surgery.
- Provide detailed information about the recovery process.
Following your consultation, if you decide to proceed with abdominoplasty, Hiroshi will guide you through the pre-surgical preparation process. This may include blood tests, dietary adjustments, and medication recommendations.
The tummy tuck procedure itself is typically performed under local anaesthesia and sedation on an outpatient basis (day surgery)
Request a Call BackRecovery Timeline
Following surgery, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Hiroshi will provide specific instructions for pain management, wound care, and activity restrictions.
Most patients experience significant improvement within a few weeks, with continued improvement over several months. It is important to be patient and follow your doctor’s recovery plan for optimal results.
Considering a Tummy Tuck?
Ready to learn more about abdominoplasty and how it can help you achieve your desired body shape, book your consultation with Hiroshi at The Westbourne Centre in Birmingham today.
Arrange Your ConsultationFAQ's
Your most common questions answered
Have a question about our procedures? Call us to find out more +44 (0)121 456 8149 or check out the following frequently asked questions from customers.
Can I have a tummy tuck if I might have more children?
Yes, but pregnancy can undo the cosmetic results of a tummy tuck.
Can you recommend anything to help make my scar invisible?
There will always be a scar following abdominoplasty. There can be complications concerning its maturation. It can become thick but usually it will settle so that it less obvious, but I am afraid it will be a permanent feature.
Will I still have a belly button after a tummy tuck?
Yes, you'll still have a belly button after a tummy tuck, although sometimes it may be repositioned depending upon the extent of the abdominoplasty.
Will my belly button change after a tummy tuck?
In a full tummy tuck the position and the shape of the belly button is likely to change, and can be improved.
Where will my tummy tuck scar be?
The scar is usually designed to run just above the pubis in an area that can be hidden with underwear. The extent of the scar outwards (laterally) really depends on the type and extent of the tummy tuck (abdominoplasty).