Tummy Tuck

A Tummy Tuck or abdominoplasty, is a surgical method aimed at achieving a flatter abdomen by eliminating excess fat and skin while also firming up the muscles in your abdominal wall. The extent of the procedure can vary, with some considering it a less extensive "mini" version or a more comprehensive one, depending on the amount of excess skin and fat involved. It's crucial to be thoroughly informed, carefully assess your individual circumstances, and take your time before making a final decision. It's important to note that this procedure should not be seen as a substitute for weight loss efforts.

Why is Tummy Tuck needed?

There are various factors that can lead to the presence of excess fat, reduced skin elasticity, or weakened connective tissue in your abdominal region. These factors are:

• Significant fluctuations in body weight
• Pregnancy
• Previous abdominal surgeries, such as a C-section
• Aging
• Your inherent body type

A tummy tuck procedure is designed to eliminate surplus, lax skin and fat while also reinforcing weakened fascia. Additionally, it may address stretch marks and excess skin below the bellybutton but does not address stretch marks outside of this specific area. In cases where you've undergone a previous C-section, your plastic surgeon might incorporate your existing C-section scar into the surgerys scar.

Furthermore, it can be combined with other cosmetic body contouring procedures, such as breast surgery. If you have had fat removal through liposuction, you might consider this procedure because liposuction targets tissue just beneath the skin and fat, not excess skin.

However, it's essential to understand that this procedure is not suitable for everyone. Your physician may advise against it if you:

• Are planning to undergo significant weight loss
• Are considering future pregnancies
• Suffer from severe chronic conditions like heart disease or diabetes
• Have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30
• Smoke
• Have a history of previous abdominal surgeries resulting in substantial scar tissue

When you consult with a Plastic Surgeon regarding a Tummy Tuck, your initial appointment is likely to include the following:

• Medical History Assessment: Your plastic surgeon will review your medical history, and you should be prepared to provide information about your current and past medical conditions. You will discuss any medications you are currently taking or have taken recently, as well as any prior surgeries.
• Allergy Information: Inform your doctor of any medication allergies you may have. If your interest in a tummy tuck is linked to weight management, expect detailed questions about your history of weight gain and loss.
• Physical Examination: To determine suitable treatment options, the doctor will conduct a physical examination of your abdomen. Photographs of your abdomen may also be taken for your medical records.
• Expectation Discussion: You will discuss your motivations for desiring this procedure and articulate your desired post-procedure appearance. Its crucial to comprehend both the advantages and risks of the procedure, including potential scarring. Keep in mind that prior abdominal surgeries could impact the extent of the results achievable.

Before undergoing a Tummy Tuck, you may also need to:

• Quit Smoking: Smoking can impede skin blood flow and slow down the healing process, while also increasing the risk of tissue damage. If you smoke, your doctor will likely advise you to quit smoking before the surgery and throughout the recovery period.
• Medication Adjustments: You'll probably need to abstain from aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, and herbal supplements prior to the surgery, as these substances can heighten the risk of bleeding.
• Weight Stability: Ideally, you should maintain a stable weight for at least 12 months before this procedure. In cases of severe overweight, your doctor may recommend weight loss before the procedure, as significant post-surgery weight loss can diminish the results.
• Recovery Assistance: Plan for assistance during the recovery phase. Arrange for someone to drive you home from the hospital and stay with you for at least the initial night of your at-home recovery.

The duration of this surgery can vary significantly depending on your desired outcomes, ranging from one to five hours. Typically, the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis.

The steps involved in the procedure are:

1. You will be administered general anesthesia, which will induce sleep throughout the surgery. It's crucial to have a companion who can drive you home afterward.
2. The procedure of tummy tuck surgery depend upon the method chosen.

You may expect:

• In complete Abdominoplasty: An incision is made at the bikini line, typically aligned with your pubic hair level. The length of the scar depends on the amount of excess skin. The surgeon will then manipulate and shape the skin and muscle as needed. This procedure also involves an incision around your navel, as its necessary to free it from surrounding tissue. Whether drainage tubes are placed under your skin will be determined by your surgeon and they may be removed within a few days.
• In Partial or Mini-Abdominoplasty: This option involves shorter incisions. Your belly button usually remains in its original position during this procedure. The separation of your skin occurs between the incision line and your belly button. The surgery typically takes one to two hours, and the use of drainage tubes may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Circumferential Abdominoplasty: This surgery extends to the back area and allows the removal of both skin and fat from the hip and back areas, enhancing your bodys shape from all angles.

1. Following a partial or complete tummy tuck, your incision site will be sutured and dressed. Your surgeon may recommend the use of an elastic bandage or compression garment after the surgery. It's crucial to diligently follow your surgeon's instructions regarding the wearing of this garment and caring for the bandage. Your surgeon will also provide guidance on the best positions for sitting or lying down to minimize discomfort.
2. For those who are highly physically active, it will be necessary to significantly limit strenuous exercise for a period of four to six weeks. Your doctor will provide guidance on this aspect as you progress through the healing process. Generally, most individuals will need about one week off work to ensure a proper recovery, although your doctor will help determine the specific timeline based on your individual circumstances.

A Tummy Tuck Surgery carries various potential risks, which include:

• Seroma Formation: There is a risk of fluid accumulating beneath the skin (known as seroma). The use of drainage tubes post-surgery can help to mitigate the risk, and in some cases, your doctor may need to remove excess fluid using a needle and syringe.
• Impaired Wound Healing: In some instances, areas along the incision line may experience suboptimal healing or start to separate. To prevent infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics both during and after the surgery.
• Unforeseen Scarring: The incision scar resulting from the surgery is permanent, typically situated along the easily concealable bikini line. The length and visibility of the scar can vary from person to person.
• Tissue Damage: During the procedure, fatty tissue deep within the abdominal skin may sustain damage or necrosis (cell death). Smoking heightens the risk of tissue damage. Depending on the size of the affected area, the tissue may naturally heal or require an additional surgical procedure for correction.
• Changes in Skin Sensation: Repositioning abdominal tissues during the procedure can impact the nerves in the abdominal area and, occasionally, in the upper thighs. This may lead to reduced sensation or numbness, which usually diminishes in the months following the procedure.

In addition to these risks, like any major surgical intervention, a tummy tuck carries a general risk of bleeding, infection, and adverse reactions to Anesthesia.

You may expect following things after the Tummy Tuck procedure:

• Following the surgery, surgical dressings are typically applied to cover the abdominal incision and bellybutton. Additionally, small tubes may be inserted along the incision to facilitate drainage of excess blood or fluids.
• Your doctor will encourage you to start walking as early as the first day post-surgery to minimize the risk of blood clot formation.
• Pain medication will likely be provided as swelling in the surgical area is a common occurrence.
• Drainage tubes may remain in place for several days after the procedure, and you will be instructed on how to empty and care for them. Antibiotics may be necessary as long as the drains are in use.
• Your surgeon may prescribe a blood-thinning medication for a brief period following the tummy tuck.
• You will be required to wear a supportive abdominal garment, often referred to as an abdominal binder, for approximately six weeks. This aids in preventing fluid accumulation and provides support to the abdominal area during the healing process.
• Your doctor will provide instructions on scar care.
• For the initial six weeks post-surgery, caution is advised when moving and avoiding positions that could strain the incision line, such as sudden bending at the waist, to prevent wound reopening.
• Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled. The frequency of visits will be decided by your doctor depending upon the circumstances.

Many individuals choose to take around a month off from work to allow for their recovery period. This is especially crucial if you have a physically demanding job to ensure that your recuperation is not compromised. It's advisable to refrain from exercise during this time for similar reasons. It's common for some people to experience sensations like numbness or a feeling of tension for several weeks or even months after a tummy tuck, but this is typically part of the normal healing process and often diminishes over time. Complete resolution of swelling and bruising may take up to three months, and the fading of the scar may require even more time.

Collaborating closely with your plastic surgeon and the surgical team to gain a clear understanding of what to expect and how to prepare for life after the surgery can contribute to a smoother recovery. A tummy tuck can be an effective means to achieve your desired aesthetic results, but it's important to treat your body with care and focus on doing everything necessary for a full recovery.

The journey you've undertaken to achieve this transformation has been significant, involving a lot of emotional, physical, and financial investments. Thats why it's essential to make a point of sticking to a healthy diet and exercise routine to maintain and keep enjoying your new look.

In general, the majority of individuals are quite satisfied with their appearance following this procedure. The outcomes of this procedure typically endure over the long term when you maintain a consistent and stable weight. However, it's possible that you may not fully regain your usual sense of self for several months post-surgery.

Research findings reveal that in abdominoplasty, significant complications were noted in merely four percent of patients. However, it is notably higher than the 1.4 percent rate seen in other cosmetic surgery procedures. Among these complications, hematomas were the most frequent significant complication, followed by infections, blood clots, and respiratory concerns.

The cost of Tummy Tuck in India are quite affordable than in the Western nations, while still maintaining world-class quality. The approximate price of this procedure in India ranges from $1,49,859 - $3,49,778 ($1,880 - $4,388).

Following are the factors affecting cost of Tummy Tuck in India:

• Out of pocket expense
• Health insurance coverage
• Consultation fees
• Pre-Surgical expenses
• Fat distribution in the abdomen
• Surgery cost
• Hospital fees
• Doctor fees
• Patients age
• Type of procedure
• Overall health status of the patients
• Complications involved after the surgery
• City where hospital is located

The cost for diagnostic tests and evaluations linked to tummy tuck can fluctuate due to several factors. These factors include the particular tests needed, your choice of healthcare facility or clinic, and your geographical location. These diagnostic evaluations may include pre-operative assessments, photographs, allergy tests, blood tests, urine tests, and other evaluations aimed at confirming your suitability for the procedure. The approximate cost of diagnostics for such treatments is INR 500-1000.

MedFlick, your trusted healthcare companion, is dedicated to ensuring that your medical journey goes as smoothly and successfully as possible.

• Individualized Guidance: Personalized guidance throughout your medical journey.
• Access to a broad network of prominent hospitals, top doctors, and skilled surgeons.
• Transparent and Competitive Pricing: A full breakdown of treatment costs that eliminates surprises and offers you cost-effective solutions.
• MedFlick provides everything from travel arrangements to hotel and visa help to lodging.
• Multilingual Support: Breaking down language barriers to allow patients and medical professionals to communicate more effectively.
• The road to a successful tummy tuck is challenging, full of hope, resilience, and the promise of a brighter future. With MedFlick as your guide, navigating this life-changing adventure becomes simple and liberating.