Abdominoplasty Surgery | MD, Barış Keklik

What is Abdominoplasty Surgery?

Abdominoplasty surgery, medically known as “abdominoplasty,” is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat, skin, and sagging in the abdominal area. Sagging in the abdominal area may occur due to factors such as post-pregnancy, rapid weight loss, or aging. Abdominoplasty surgery is performed to tighten the abdominal muscles and address this sagging.

The surgery generally begins with the removal of excess skin and fat tissue from the lower abdomen. Then, the abdominal muscles are tightened to achieve a firmer appearance. During the procedure, the belly button is repositioned to maintain a natural appearance. After the surgery, it is possible to have a flatter, firmer, and aesthetically pleasing abdominal area.

Who Should Consider Abdominoplasty Surgery?

This surgery provides both aesthetic benefits and health advantages. However, not everyone may be a suitable candidate for this surgery. So, who is ideal for abdominoplasty surgery?

Women Post-Pregnancy: The sagging that occurs in the abdominal area after pregnancy may not be corrected with exercise. In such cases, abdominoplasty surgery may be an effective solution.
Individuals Who Have Experienced Rapid Weight Loss: People who have undergone bariatric surgery and lost weight quickly may experience significant skin sagging, especially in the abdominal area. Abdominoplasty surgery addresses this issue.
Aging-Related Sagging: Over time, the skin loses elasticity and begins to sag. Abdominoplasty surgery can reverse the effects of this natural process.
Genetic Factors: Some individuals may have a more saggy abdominal structure due to genetic predisposition. In such cases, the surgery can make a significant aesthetic difference.
Before the surgery, the patient’s overall health should be assessed. Individuals with heart conditions, bleeding disorders, or other health issues that may prevent surgery should consult their doctors.

Surgery Process: What to Expect?

After deciding on an abdominoplasty surgery, it is important to be informed about the process. This process generally includes the following steps:

Pre-consultation: Before the surgery, you will have a detailed consultation with your surgeon. In this consultation, the issue in your abdominal area will be evaluated, and information about how the surgery will be performed will be provided. Your post-surgery expectations will also be discussed.
Surgery Preparation: It is important to quit smoking before the surgery, avoid blood-thinning medications, and follow the dietary recommendations given by your doctor.
Anesthesia: General anesthesia will be administered during the surgery. This ensures that you will not feel any pain throughout the procedure.
Surgical Procedure: Abdominoplasty surgery typically takes 2-4 hours. The surgeon makes a horizontal incision in the lower abdomen and removes excess fat and skin. The abdominal muscles are tightened, and the incision is closed with sutures, and bandages are applied.

Post-Operative Recovery Process

The recovery process after surgery may vary depending on the patient’s general health and the extent of the surgery. However, in general, the recovery process follows these steps:

First Few Days: After the surgery, there may be pain and swelling. Your doctor will provide pain-relieving medications. Additionally, there may be drains in place in the surgical area, which will be removed within a few days.
First Week: During the recovery process, you should avoid strenuous activities. Regular use of the compression garment recommended by your doctor will help speed up the healing process of the surgical area.
One Month Later: After one month, you will mostly have recovered. However, it may take several months to fully return to normal activities. Regular doctor check-ups are crucial during this period.

Risks and Complications of Abdominoplasty Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks and complications associated with abdominoplasty. It is important to be aware of these risks before the surgery to make an informed decision:

Infection: There is a risk of infection after the surgery. Therefore, it is important to use the prescribed antibiotics as directed by your doctor.
Bleeding: In rare cases, bleeding may occur after the surgery. In such cases, you should contact your doctor immediately.
Scarring: Scarring at the incision site is common after abdominoplasty surgery. However, these scars will fade over time and become less visible. Seroma: Fluid accumulation, known as seroma, is one of the most common complications. It can be prevented with the placement of drains and regular doctor check-ups.

How Much Does Abdominoplasty Surgery Cost?

The cost of abdominoplasty surgery varies depending on several factors. The experience of the surgeon, the hospital where the surgery will be performed, the scope of the operation, and the materials used are the main factors that affect the price. In Turkey, the cost of abdominoplasty surgery generally ranges from 20,000 TL to 50,000 TL. However, it is best to consult with your surgeon to get an exact price.

Post-Abdominoplasty Surgery Nutrition and Exercise

After abdominoplasty surgery, proper nutrition and exercise are essential for speeding up the recovery process and maintaining the results. So, what kind of nutrition and exercise plan should you follow after surgery?

Eat Protein-Rich Foods: Protein plays a crucial role in your body’s healing process. After the surgery, make sure to consume protein-rich foods like chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes.
Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated is important during the recovery process. Be sure to drink plenty of water after the surgery.
Start Light Exercises: For the first few weeks, avoid strenuous exercises. However, with your doctor’s approval, you can begin light walks to stimulate circulation.

Differences Between Abdominoplasty and Liposuction

Abdominoplasty surgery and liposuction are often confused with each other. However, there are distinct differences between the two procedures. Here are the differences between abdominoplasty and liposuction:

Abdominoplasty Surgery: In this procedure, excess skin and fat are removed, and the abdominal area is tightened. Additionally, the abdominal muscles are tightened to achieve an aesthetic appearance.
Liposuction: Liposuction only removes excess fat. It does not address skin sagging or muscle tightening. Liposuction is typically used to eliminate small fat deposits.

Expert Recommendations for Best Results

To achieve the best results from abdominoplasty surgery, it is important to follow your surgeon’s recommendations closely. Additionally, consider these tips:

Don’t Miss Your Doctor Appointments: Regular doctor check-ups after the surgery are essential for monitoring the recovery process.
Quit Smoking: Smoking can negatively impact the healing process. It is recommended to stop smoking before and after the surgery.
Wear Your Compression Garment Regularly: Wearing the compression garment prescribed by your doctor will help the surgical area heal more quickly.

When Can I Return to Work After Abdominoplasty Surgery?

The recovery process varies from person to person. However, generally, you can return to light work within 2-4 weeks.

Is Abdominoplasty Surgery Painful?

There may be mild pain after the surgery. However, this pain can be managed with the pain-relieving medications prescribed by your doctor.