Abdominal plastic surgery

Problem

The so-called „hanging skin” and the difficulty of losing unnecessary fat from the middle parts of the body.

For whom

Throughout the years, a flat and toned stomach has been the dream and goal of many people. Despite our intensive efforts, we are not always able to achieve this goal. The problem of 'hanging skin’ is often an issue for people who have lost a lot of weight or for women after pregnancy. People who cannot get rid of excess fat from their midsection despite their efforts may also think about abdominal plasty.

Treatments

Abdominoplasty (or abdominal plication) consists of the removal of the skin-fat fold in the middle and lower abdomen and plication of the abdominal wall muscles. Often, liposuction and abdominal wall muscle plication are performed at the same time to achieve better results during the operation. The problem of not only sagging skin and stretch marks, but also excess fat located around the abdomen, is then resolved. When the problem affects only the lower abdomen then the best solution is mini-abdominoplasty, which has very good results leaving a smaller scar and shortening the recovery time.

Preparation for surgery, anaesthesia

Preparation for surgery primarily involves a detailed patient interview and performing the necessary investigations. Obtaining information on the state of health, allergies, medication taken or habits (smoking) is of great importance in the course of the operation and in the recovery itself. Approximately two weeks before the planned operation, the patient should refrain from smoking cigarettes, ascosalicylic acid-based medication (e.g. Aspirin C) and vitamin E intake.

Abdominal plasty is usually performed under epidural (lower lumbar) or general endotracheal anaesthesia and lasts between 3 and 5 hours. During the procedure, the doctor makes a long incision in the lower abdominal skin (between the iliac spines but below the underwear line) in a W- or T-shape (the type of incision is chosen depending on the extent of the procedure). Another incision is made around the belly button to allow the fatty tissue to be freely detached from the abdominal muscles. The abdomen and waist are then modelled by tightening and removing excess skin. Finally, bandages and a special compression costume are applied.

Recovery

The procedure involves a 2-3 day stay in the clinic during which the patient should not exercise too strenuously. The sutures are removed on day 6-14 after the procedure and after this period, a return to normal activity can be planned. Excluding sports for a further 2 weeks.

Required tests

Contraindications

anaemia, vascular diathesis, unregulated hypertension, long-term diabetes, purulent inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes, pregnancy.