Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Some women find it difficult to achieve a flat stomach, even with high levels of physical activities and muscle-toning exercises. Following pregnancy or substantial weight loss, the abdominal muscles and skin may become weakened and loose, often resulting in bulging of the lower abdomen and stretch marks on the overlying skin. Alternatively, a caesarean section or hysterectomy scar may cause an overhang of loose skin in the lower part of the abdomen which is impossible to shift with regular exercise or a healthy diet. As a result, it may be difficult to find clothes that fit comfortably around the waistline and this can create self-consciousness and anxiety.

Abdominoplasty Procedure

A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty will improve the appearance of the stomach. The excess skin and fat are removed from the lower part of the abdomen and the abdominal muscles are tightened and stitched together to give the abdomen a flat, firm and toned appearance. A new hole is cut for the umbilicus (navel) which is stitched back into place.

The procedure leaves a long, curved scar across the lower abdomen, just above the level of the pubic area. There is also a small scar around the umbilicus.

A tummy tuck procedure is performed under general anaesthetic and takes two to three hours.

Abdominoplasty Recovery

It is usually necessary to stay in hospital for two nights following the surgery.

After the procedure the abdomen will feel swollen and tight, causing some pain and discomfort. It may be difficult to stand up straight during the first week and it will not be possible to drive during that time. The lower part of the abdomen often feels numb for several weeks after the surgery.

It takes around two weeks to be fully mobile but strenuous physical activities may only be resumed after six weeks.

Abdominoplasty Risks

Complications are rare but may include a reaction to the anaesthetic, infection, wound healing problems, deep vein thrombosis, noticeable scarring, and fluid collection under the skin which may require draining.

Mr Prinsloo will explain how the possible risks will apply to you.

Due to the Data Protection Act etc. our supply of pre/post operative pictures is currently limited.

Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

A mini tummy tuck removes fat and excess skin from the lower part of the abdomen below the umbilicus (navel) to leave a flatter, firmer and more youthful-looking tummy. This is a similar procedure to a full tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) but it is a less complex procedure as the navel does not need repositioning.

Mini Abdominoplasty Recovery

It is usually necessary to stay in hospital for one to two nights following the surgery.

After the procedure the abdomen will feel swollen and tight, causing some pain and discomfort. It may be difficult to stand up straight within the first week and it will not be possible to drive during that time. The lower part of the abdomen often feels numb for several weeks after the surgery.

It takes around two weeks to be fully mobile again but strenuous physical activities can only be resumed after six weeks.

Mini Abdominoplasty Risks

Complications are rare but may include a reaction to the anaesthetic, infection, wound healing problems, deep vein thrombosis, noticeable scarring and fluid collection under the skin which may require draining.

Mr Prinsloo will explain how the possible risks will apply to you.

Due to the Data Protection Act etc. our supply of pre/post operative pictures is currently limited.

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Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Description

A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty will improve the appearance of the tummy (abdomen). The procedure leaves a long, curved scar across the lower abdomen, just above the level of the pubic area. There is also a small scar around the umbilicus.

Who are candidates?

Any woman with:

  • Excess skin and fat caused by weight loss or Pregnancy
  • Caesarean section or hysterectomy scar causing an overhang of loose skin in lower part of abdomen
  • Severe lower abdominal stretch marks

How is it done?

Excess skin and fat are removed from the lower part of the abdomen and the abdominal muscles are tightened to give a flat, firm and toned appearance. A new hole is cut for the umbilicus (navel) which is stitched back into place.

Length of surgery

From 11/2 to 2 hours

Hospital stay

Two night stay is recommended

Anaesthesia

General anaesthetic

Time to heal

  • Pain and discomfort in first 48 hours
  • Drains are removed within 48 hours
  • Difficult to stand up straight during first week
  • Driving after first week
  • Return to work in 2-3 weeks
  • Normal activity in 6-8 weeks

Risks

Risks are rare but may include:

  • Bleeding, haematoma (blood clot), fluid collection, infection, wound healing problems, skin loss, irregular scar formation, nerve damage and complications related to anesthestic (DVT, PE and chest infection)

Duration of results

Long-lasting, although weight loss or gain and pregnancy can affect results over time.

Pro's

  • Removal of noticeable stretch marks on lower abdomen
  • Flatter and more youthful tummy
  • Enhanced contours allow clothing to fit

Con's

  • Not for women who intend to become pregnant in the near future
  • Permanent scars from hip to hip
  • Complications are more common in smokers and obese patients
  • Doesn’t remove stretch marks above level of umbilicus

"To Mr DJ Prinsloo, Thank you for your excellent care. Best wishes."

BK - June 2010 - Abdominoplasty

"To Mr Prinsloo, Just wanted to say a big "Thank You" after my Abdominoplasty . I feel great, really pleased with my new flat belly!! My confidence has hit the roof!! I even enjoy clothes shopping now. Thank you so so much."

WE - July 2009 - ABDO

"To Mr Prinsloo, Just like to say thank you very much for care and professionalism with my tummy tuck and breast uplift. Kind regards."

PP - March 2007 - Tummy Tuck + Breast Uplift

"Dear Mr Prinsloo, I'd just like to say thank you so much for your work on me. I found the whole experience very positive, with only some discomfort and no pain – and I have recovered much more quickly than I had dared to hope. Thank you for your time and expertise. Your work has allowed me to feel finished in a way I would never have been able to achieve through diet and exercise. My friends and family are amazed at the results (especially the breast lift – I've gone from 36 E to a 34 D)! Thank you again – it's truly made a huge impact on my confidence and life. Yours in gratitude."

HW - March 2007 – Tummy Tuck + Breast Uplift

Who are candidates to have a tummy tuck(abdominoplasty)?

Any woman in relatively good shape with:
• Excess skin and fat caused by weight loss or pregnancy
• Caesarean section or hysterectomy scar causing an overhang of loose skin in lower part of abdomen
• Severe lower abdominal stretch marks
• loose abdominal skin that won't respond to diet or exercise

How long will the surgery take?

A Tummy tuck will last around 1 ½ - 2 hours; under general anaesthetic.

How long will the recovery take after a tummy tuck?

It is usually necessary to stay in hospital for two nights following abdominoplasty surgery. It takes around two weeks to be fully mobile but strenuous physical activities may only be resumed after six weeks.

What are the benefits of having a tummy tuck?

• Increased self-esteem
• Wider choice of swimwear and underwear options
• Ability to wear more fitted clothing with confidence

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