tummy tuck

Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty: The Surgical Procedure for Tummy Tightening

A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure used to treat sagging in the abdominal area and achieve a desirable shape. It is a cosmetic procedure, but it requires careful selection of the doctor who will perform it. Additionally, the patient needs to know the facts and information related to this surgery, which we will provide in this topic.

How is the Tummy Tuck Procedure Done:

First and foremost, it should be noted that there are two types of this procedure. The first type is a complete tummy tuck, while the other is a mini tummy tuck. Generally, the procedure involves several steps, which are as follows:

Before the Procedure:

• • First, the doctor must ensure the overall health of the body and its suitability for the procedure.
  • Comprehensive medical tests are conducted, such as a blood picture, heart check, and liver and kidney function tests.
  • The doctor needs to know the patient’s medical history, as an abdominal hernia can affect the procedure.
  • The doctor should know all the medications the patient is taking to ensure there is no allergy to any drugs and to select the appropriate anesthesia.
  • The patient must inform the doctor if they smoke or drink alcohol, as they need to stop at least two weeks before the procedure.

Tummy Tuck Procedure with Dr. Ahmed Fawzy:

Procedure Steps:

• • The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, lasting from sixty minutes to perhaps five hours.
  • The nursing team sterilizes the entire abdominal area.
  • An horizontal incision is made near the pubic hairline, penetrating all skin layers down to the muscles.
  • The doctor separates the skin and fatty tissue from the underlying tissues.
  • The abdominal muscles are strengthened using special stitches.
  • Complete liposuction is performed, removing any excess fatty tissue, and trimming any sagging skin.
  • The navel is repositioned if a complete tummy tuck is performed.
  • After completing the previous steps, the doctor sutures the tissues and skin harmoniously.
  • Dressings are applied, and a drain is used to remove fluids and blood from the wound.

After the Procedure:

• • The patient is monitored for 24 hours, and if their condition is stable, they can go home.
  • The doctor prescribes painkillers, and the patient must follow all post-operative instructions during the recovery period.

What Prevents a Tummy Tuck Surgery:

The doctor will not perform this surgery in the presence of the following conditions:

• • The patient has suffered severe burns in the upper abdominal area.
  • The patient has a chronic disease such as diabetes or heart disease; in this case, the surgery will not be performed.
  • The patient has had a previous heart or brain clot.
  • The woman is planning to become pregnant.
  • The patient is morbidly obese.

Post-Tummy Tuck Instructions:

Following post-tummy tuck instructions is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery and maintain the achieved results. Here are some instructions and the stages you will go through from the day of the surgery until several weeks after:

The Day of the Surgery:

The doctor will place medical dressings on the wound area to ensure the bleeding has stopped. If bleeding continues or if there is significant fluid loss from the surgical incision, the doctor will insert small tubes to help drain the fluids from the body. During the night in the hospital, the medical team will help you move and walk even if it is difficult, as movement greatly helps in preventing blood clots. The doctor will prescribe painkillers and medications to prevent blood clots.

The First 14 Days Post-Surgery:

In the early postoperative period, the abdominal muscles are weak and still in the initial stages of healing. Therefore, you should avoid standing for long periods, lifting heavy objects, and any movements or bends that might put pressure on the wound. Consume small meals to avoid stretching the abdominal muscles. Avoid salty foods and drinks high in sodium, replacing them with fiber-rich foods and drinks that are gentle on the intestines. Some scars may appear at the surgical incision site, but they will fade over time with proper wound care. Smoking should be completely avoided during the recovery period as it significantly delays wound healing.

Tummy Tuck Results:

Key Post-Tummy Tuck Instructions:

Complete rest is one of the most important factors for quick recovery from the surgery. Make sure to get enough rest, follow the doctor’s instructions carefully, take prescribed medications on time, clean the wound at least twice daily, and disinfect it. Wear the compression garment all day for at least two weeks post-surgery to prevent inflammation and reduce pain. Apply the ointment prescribed by the doctor to help the wound heal quickly, and use cold compresses on the wound area to prevent inflammation.