After weight loss or pregnancy or simply with advancing age one can develop an excess of skin and fat on the abdomen. An abdominoplasty operation removes the skin and fat from the belly button (umbilicus) to the pubic hairline. With a full abdominoplasty the belly button is repositioned to its natural position. With a mini-abdominoplasty the belly button is not repositioned.
The procedure is often combined with liposuction to the flanks and tightening of the abdominal wall
Occasionally after significant weight loss extra skin requires removal such that in addition to the horizontal scar there will be a vertical scar (fleur-de-lys abdominoplasty).
The surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic and wound drains are placed to drain fluid after the operation. A 1-2 night stay in hospital is required and the wounds will heal in 10-14 days. A support garment is worn for 2-4 weeks afterwards. The scars can remain red and lumpy for 18 months following the surgery and it is recommended that the scar remains taped for a number of weeks post-operatively. Strenuous physical exercise should be avoided for 6 weeks.
Mr Cawrse can advise you which technique would suit best during your consultation.
View a selection of abdominoplasty results and abdominoplasty testimonials from Mr Cawrse’s patients.
More information can be found at the BAPRAS website.
