Indications
The main indication for abdominal surgery is the loosening of the skin in the abdominal area. The main causes for this relaxation are pregnancies and high weight loss or weight gain after repeated diets. In many cases, relaxation of the abdominal wall coexists with skin relaxation, which is corrected by an abdominal surgery. An important advantage of this procedure is that along with the achievement of a well-formed abdomen, the existing stretch marks from the lower part of the abdominal wall disappear.
Surgical technique
1.If there is only excess fat, without excess skin, then liposuction and not abdominal surgery may be necessary.
2. When relaxation is restricted to the lower abdomen only, below the navel, we can perform a mini abdominal surgery, where the incision is smaller than the classical abdominoplasty (similar to the caesarean section).
3. When relaxation of the abdominal wall muscles coexists, to achieve a better aesthetic effect, along with abdominal surgery, a type of abdominal lifting is performed, supplementing the midline muscles, returning them to their normal position.
We recommend that our patients lose at least 50% of their excess weight. This will help to have an excellent post-operative outcome. Simultaneously with abdominoplasty, liposuction may also be required to remove excess fat from the abdominal area. Tightening of the abdominal skin and muscles, achieved by an abdominoplasty, is done through an incision in the lower abdomen, which is hidden in the bikini line. In cases where relaxation is small, a mini abdominoplasty is possible, where the incision is smaller, approximately the same as that of caesarean section.
Type of anesthesia
Abdominoplasty requires general anesthesia and is performed in an organized clinic.
Operation Time
Mini abdominal surgery takes about 1-2 hours, while classic abdominal surgery takes 2-3 hours.
Stay
It usually takes one day to stay in the clinic, although in many cases the patient may leave the evening of the same day after consultation with their plastic surgeon Dr Achilleas Chantes.
Postoperative period
After an abdominoplasty, there is a mild discomfort in the abdominal area in the first few days, especially when abdominal muscles have been tightened. The patient should wear a belly pressing garment for about 4 to 8 weeks. There may be some bruising and slight swelling in the abdominal area that disappears within the 1st month. The abdominal incision in the first 3 months is pink and then within the first year it takes its final form. To achieve better and invisible scarring it is recommended to avoid scarring in the sun for the first 3 months or at least the use of sunscreen with a high protection index.
Back to daily activities
After a mini abdominoplasty we recommend our patients to return to their normal activities after 7-10 days. After a classic abdominal surgery this period is approximately 10-15 days. Patients can begin progressive exercise after the second month.
Results
The result after an abdominoplasty is a flat and tight belly. Patients over time remain satisfied, as the result is permanent. To maintain this effect, of course, it is necessary to maintain proper nutrition, maintain ideal weight and continue exercising.