This article has been reviewed and approved by Chief Physician and Aesthetic Surgeon Dr. Ali Bagher on May 10, 2024.
Once you have decided to undergo abdominoplasty, it is important that you prepare as much as possible for your procedure. By read about abdominoplasty and book a consultation With one of our experienced surgeons, you will receive all the information you need to prepare yourself in the best way. You will also get a clearer picture of the benefits, the risks of the operation and what the recovery process may look like. However, even before your consultation, you can build up a good amount of knowledge to get the best conditions for your operation.
A tummy tuck can be performed in different ways depending on your circumstances, your anatomy and the results you want. The most common reason for a tummy tuck is excess skin after pregnancy or significant weight loss, where the skin has not tightened as desired. A tummy tuck can also be performed if you have separated abdominal muscles and like combination procedure with liposuctionYou will receive information about what suits you best to achieve the desired result during your consultation.
Preparations for abdominoplasty
Preparing properly for a tummy tuck is important to ensure that you get the results you want and to know what is expected of you as a patient. For example, with a tummy tuck, it is very important that you stop smoking four weeks before and four weeks after the operation. You should also be moderate in your alcohol intake and try to stay in as good a shape as possible.
After a tummy tuck, you may feel very sore around the surgical area. Many people also experience difficulty walking and sitting upright. If you do not have a partner who can do everything for you after your surgery, it may be a good idea to prepare your home to make your daily life as easy as possible after the surgery. For example, this may involve preparing lunch boxes so you do not have to cook or making sure you take out the trash before you come to us. Cleaning or making your bed can also be a good way to prepare, as well as asking friends and acquaintances if someone can provide a ride after your tummy tuck.
Risks of abdominoplasty
There is no surgical procedure that is completely risk-free, but by choosing a reputable clinic with competent surgeons, you reduce the risk of complications. Suffering a serious complication after a tummy tuck is very rare, but there are always risks that are important to know about. In the case of a tummy tuck, the more serious complications are infections or bleeding. In the worst case, a supplementary operation may need to be performed. In the event of infections, you will be treated with antibiotics.
Some risks and side effects after a tummy tuck are more common than others. For example, if you are a smoker or diabetic, you are at higher risk of developing scars that are difficult to heal. Reduced circulation, fluid retention and blood clots are also common.
When is abdominoplasty appropriate?
A tummy tuck is suitable for those who suffer from excess skin on the stomach. For example, your skin may not have retracted after pregnancy or after you have lost a lot of weight. It is also a good method for those who have split abdominal muscles or who want to get rid of annoying stretch marks on the skin.
Undergoing abdominoplasty is a relatively major procedure that requires both preparation and recovery. Therefore, it is important that you are at a time in your life where you are in good health and have a BMI that meets the requirements for abdominoplasty. On our website, you can use our BMI calculator, which makes it easy for you to work out where you are on the scale.
If you are planning to get pregnant in the near future, you should wait to have a tummy tuck. This applies to both full and mini tummy tucks. During pregnancy, the skin will stretch a lot and some weight gain will occur. After pregnancy, you may again have problems with stretch marks and excess skin. By waiting until you are finished with your pregnancies, you can ensure that you get a lasting and beautiful result from your surgery.
Mental preparation
Abdominoplasty is a relatively major surgery that is stressful on both the body and the psyche, as the body is unbalanced after the procedure. Before undergoing an abdominoplasty, you should therefore ensure that your mental health is as stable as possible.
It is also important that you have a good self-image at the outset and that you understand that the surgery may have limitations that affect the final result. Looking at before and after pictures of abdominoplasty can help you create a realistic idea of what the final result might be.
Also keep in mind that abdominoplasty has a relatively long recovery time, so it will take time before you see your final results. Be prepared to wait around six months.
Recovery after abdominoplasty
Having an understanding of the healing process and what to expect after surgery is important so that you can prepare and have a full understanding of your entire procedure.
After a tummy tuck, it is not uncommon to feel both soreness and swelling. Many also experience uncomfortable pressure from the girdle you will need to wear after the operation. The girdle ensures that your abdomen is well supported and that you get the best possible result.
During your first 1-2 weeks it is important that you rest. It is important to move your body to avoid problems such as blood clots, but do not completely remove the movements and walk slightly leaning forward to reduce the strain on the skin. You should wait at least 8 weeks after your abdominoplasty with hard and heart-raising exercise and you should also refrain from smoking and alcohol in the first few weeks.
At Estetikcentrum, you always get 2-3 weeks of sick leave and free follow-up visits. Most people can return to work after 2-4 weeks, but your individual recovery and your profession may be decisive in this matter.
Want to know more about abdominoplasty? Read our guide to everything you need to know about abdominoplasty here, or book a consultation with surgeon to discuss your options. We are happy to answer your questions.
