Abdominoplasty – What it is
Abdominoplasty aims to flatten a sagging abdomen, eliminate muscle and skin laxity, and reduce stretch marks by suturing the abdominal muscles, tightening the abdominal wall, and removing excess fat and skin.
It can significantly improve the appearance of a sagging abdomen—something that neither diet nor exercise can achieve when the skin and abdominal muscles have been stretched beyond their ability to return to normal. However, it should be clarified that abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss.
How the Abdominoplasty Procedure is Performed
The incision is made just above the pubic area. If the excess fat is limited to the area below the navel, a less complex procedure, known as a mini abdominoplasty, may be performed (the incision is smaller and the navel is not affected).
The goal is to achieve tightening of the abdominal wall through suturing and approximation of the rectus abdominal muscles. The navel is repositioned to a new location, usually about 3 centimeters lower, due to the tension applied to the skin.
The duration of the procedure is approximately 1.5–2 hours and it is performed under general anesthesia. Postoperative pain is mild and subsides quickly with standard pain relief medication.
A 24-hour stay at the clinic is required, with a return to daily activities within 5–7 days. The surgical scar gradually fades and becomes a thin line after about one year.
After the surgery, the patient wears an elastic compression garment (corset) for approximately 5
weeks. Strengthening the abdominal muscles, in addition to addressing skin laxity, reinforces the muscles and helps reduce discomfort in the lower back area caused by a sagging abdomen.
Combined Procedures
There are combined procedures available for enhanced results. At the same time as a partial or full abdominoplasty, liposuction can be performed on the lateral abdominal walls and flanks—areas where incisions can be avoided—to achieve a more comprehensive aesthetic outcome.
The extensive surgical experience of Plastic Surgeon G. Horti also makes it possible to perform breast reconstruction and abdominoplasty, or even thigh and buttock procedures, within a single operation.
Results:
Abdominoplasty, whether partial or full, delivers excellent results for patients with weakened abdominal muscles or excess skin.
In most cases, the results are long-lasting, provided that a balanced diet and light exercise are maintained, and there are no significant weight fluctuations.