With aging, after pregnancy, heredity and many other factors may lead to unwanted skin and fat excess in the abdominal era. After weight loss it is common for the skin to become slack and saggy. You can consider undergoing abdominoplasty if you want a slimmer waist and flatter abdomen.
Who are the perfect candidates for this procedure?
The perfect candidates for this procedure are motivated patients, who are well informed and who have realistic aesthetics expectations. This procedure can improve your image but first you should be informed of all possible risks and complications as well as trust the opinion of your surgeon.
What methods of abdominoplasty exist?
The general idea is to remove the excess skin and fat, so the operation may vary in every patient, since everyone has different body and needs. The operation is usually combined with liposuction for best results. The basic types of abdominoplasty are:
- Mini abdominoplasty: it removes the excess skin from the lower abdomen. It can be
combined with liposuction and it only addresses the skin laxity below the belly buton. - Extended Tummy Tuck: this method allows to remove skin and fat from the entire
abdomen area. - Belt lipectomy: this is a much larger procedure that removes excess skin and fat from
the abdomen and the back. It is very often done after drastic weight loss.
How should I prepare for the surgery?
During your appointment you would be given all necessary instructions for your preparation for the operation. All needed exams will be scheduled. The date for your surgery will be scheduled according the menstruation period. It is very important for you to strictly follow the given instructions and to inform your surgeon about all drugs and food supplements that you take. Although the usual recovery time is shorter you are advised to plan 14 days before going back to work.
How long is the operation?
Usually the operation can take up to 3 hours, according to the used method. This time should be only for orientation since it can vary according to the severity of the case and the used methods.
Are there risks?
Any surgical procedure hides risks. Those risk may be from general, found in all surgical manipulations to specific for your case and the type of your operation. During your consultation dr. Lafchis will explain you in detail all the risks. You will find a list of them in the inform consent you will be asked to sign before the operation.
How long does the recovery take?
The recovery usually takes 7-14 days and after that you can go back to your everyday life.
When is the best time for surgery?
Dr. Lafchis advices to undergo aesthetic surgery during the winter and avoid the hot weather.
Can I combine this operation with other procedures?
Abdominoplasty can be combined with many other procedures. You can discuss this option with Dr. Lafchis as he will explain in detail everything about the opportunity to combine procedures. After the discussion you will be informed about the type of anesthesia and all risks.