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What is an abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a “tummy tuck,” is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to remove excess fat and abdominal skin from the abdomen.
The procedure can be performed on both men and women and is often combined with liposuction to contour the abdomen. Separation of the abdominal wall muscles, which commonly occurs with pregnancy, can be simultaneously repaired at the time of the abdominoplasty.
Therefore Abdominoplasty can be an effective way to address several concerns, including:
- a protruding abdomen
- loose skin
- stretch marks
It can also improve the appearance of a “pouch,” or bulge which has developed with weight gain and/or pregnancy. The excess skin is removed leaving a flat, well contoured and shapely abdomen.
There are many variants of abdominoplasty depending on the extent of excess tissue that needs to be removed, such as an extended abdominoplasty and fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty.
Are you feeling self-conscious with excess sagging skin on the abdominal area and/or stretch marks following pregnancy and/or weight loss?
This excess skin can cause difficulty with the fitting of clothes and unfortunately does not disappear with exercise. An abdominoplasty may be a good solution to permanently remove this excess skin and fat.
Mr Ridha is a London -based surgeon who has extensive knowledge and experience in the latest tummy tuck procedures. After a careful assessment, he will recommend a suitable type of tummy tuck that will address your goals and deliver lasting results.
Tummy Tuck at a Glance
Surgery Time
2-3 hours
Time off work
2 weeks
Hospital Stay
1 night
Shower
Day 1
Reasonable Mobility
After 1 day
Exercise
After 8 weeks
Bars & Garments
Abdominal garment for 6 weeks
Sexual Activity
After 4 weeks
Sleeping on back
Recommended for 4 weeks
Full Recovery
8 weeks
Driving
2 weeks
Benefit from having tummy tuck surgery
There are many benefits to having an abdominoplasty, both physical and psychological.
Physical benefits may include:
- a flatter and more toned abdomen
- narrower waistline
- improve the appearance of stretch marks and ethered or poor quality scars
Psychological benefits may include:
- an increase in self-confidence
- greater self-esteem
- feeling more comfortable in their clothing and swimwear
Patients who decide to have an abdominoplasty often report feeling happier and more confident in their appearance. The procedure can help to improve your quality of life in many ways.
Wondering if abdominoplasty is Right For You?
Find Out Today.
The potential risks of an abdominoplasty
Some potential risks and complications of abdominoplasty include:
- Seroma (fluid accumulation)
- Hematoma (bleeding)
- Wound infection
- Wound dehiscence (separation of the incision)
- Skin necrosis (skin death)
- Scarring
- Asymmetry
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary embolism (PE)
These risks are uncommon and in general, abdominoplasty patients achieve excellent results and experience great satisfaction from their surgery. However, it is important to know the potential risks and complications before the procedure. Mr Ridha will discuss these with you in detail before you make any decision with regard to proceeding with surgery.
How is an abdominoplasty performed?
The procedure is performed under a general anaesthetic, takes two to three hours to complete and usually requires an overnight hospital stay.
An incision is made below the bikini line, similar to a Caesarian section incision but slightly longer. A second incision is also made around the navel to release its attachment to the skin. The skin and fat are elevated to allow an assessment of the underlying muscles. If required the muscles are tightened, creating a more toned appearance.
The excess tissue, consisting of skin and fat, is then removed and if necessary, liposuction is performed to further contour the abdomen.
The incisions are then closed with dissolvable sutures. The scar line is dressed with surgical tape and an abdominal binder is fitted.
Recovery time
After the surgery, patients will be taken to a recovery area, where they are closely monitored. Discomfort is managed with simple analgesics/painkiller medication, and is provided to be taken home on discharge. Any swelling is minimised with the use of the abdominal binder which needs to be worn for six weeks.
Patients may shower the next day after the surgery. The incisions have usually healed in 2 weeks and patients are normally able to return to work after ten to fourteen days.
It is important to avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least eight weeks after surgery.
It is always recommended to follow the surgeon’s instructions, each patient’s recovery is different and may require individual instructions and additional healing time.
Before and After images
View some of the results experienced by our tummy tuck patients.
Do these photos remind you of your case?
You can get similar results or better.
How much does abdominoplasty cost?
The total cost of your abdominoplasty is largely dependent on your specific requirements. We recommend that you book an initial consultation with Mr Ridha, Where after an assessment and discussion of your goals and desires, a more accurate cost can be determined.
Why choose us?
At HR Plastic Surgery we strive to ensure that every patient receives the best possible service and care throughout the entire process. Starting with the initial consultation to the surgery itself, we strive to ensure that every patient achieves the best, long-term results.
We aim to assist our patients in achieving a natural, fresh look, with a tailored care plan unique to them. We believe that plastic surgery should both rejuvenate and create aesthetic harmony.
To book a free consultation with us please call us on + 020 3907 6830, email us at info@hrplasticsurgery.com, or book online via our website.
Meet Mr Ridha
Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon
Mr Hyder Ridha is a Consultant, Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon who read medicine at the prestigious Royal Free and University College London Medical School.
He graduated with distinction (MB BS) in 2003 and also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Anatomy and Developmental Biology (First-class Honours).
Mr Ridha is dedicated to offering honest, clear and realistic expectations to all his patients. He understands the importance of building a relationship with each one, making them feel as comfortable and confident in his skills, from inception to completion of their procedure.
Our Locations
We are conveniently located in four hospitals throughout London. Find us here:
Hatfield Avenue,
Hatfield Business Park,
Hatfield AL10 9UA
One Medical House,
Boundary Way,
Hemel Hempstead HP2 7YU
Benslow Lane,
Hitchin SG4 9QZ
Ambrose Lane,
Harpenden AL5 4BP
FAQs
Below you can find the questions we get most frequently asked about our Abdominoplasty procedure
Yes, abdominoplasty and full tummy tuck refer to the same procedure.
Abdominoplasty surgery takes approximately two to three hours to complete.
The full recovery time for abdominoplasty is 8 weeks. However, most patients are able to return to work and normal daily activities within seven to ten days.
As with any surgical procedure pain and discomfort may be experienced. However, we ensure that this is minimised with the use of simple analgesics which are normally only required in the first week following the procedure.
Yes, a woman can fall pregnant after having a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck does not interfere with a woman’s fertility, nor does it affect the natural ability of the abdominal wall to stretch. However we advise that you undergo an abdominoplasty once your family is complete to eliminate the risk of further excess loose skin developing which may necessitate another abdominoplasty.
This article is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a clinical assessment. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.
How to schedule a consultation
To book an appointment with Mr Ridha, please call us on 020 3907 6830, email us at info@hrplasticsurgery.com, or book online via the form below.