Tummy tuck surgery, or abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery to remove excess skin and fat after weight loss or pregnancy, resulting in a flatter, tighter tummy.. But how can patients prepare for tummy tuck surgery? Read our guide to ensure your physical and mental health are optimised before your procedure.
Who can benefit from tummy tuck surgery?
Often, patients who’ve lost weight after significant weight gain or who’ve been pregnant are left with excess skin. Tummy tuck surgery is perfect for these types of patients.
At Benenden Hospital, we offer five types of tummy tucks:
- Mini tummy tuck – a less invasive surgical procedure focusing on the lower abdomen involving a shorter incision
- Standard or Full tummy tuck – this involves making a large incision across the lower tummy from hip to hip, just above the pubic area. Then making a second incision to free the belly button from the tissue that surrounds it, separating the skin from the abdominal wall and realigning the abdominal muscles
- Large or Extended tummy tuck – the same as a Standard but with a longer scar to address fullness to the flanks.
- Fleur de Lys tummy tuck – as with the standard tummy tuck which involves a hip-to-hip incision, a fleur-de-lys tummy tuck also includes a vertical incision up the abdomen to remove more skin and pull both down and inward removing the excess.
- Circumferential, Belt or Lower Body Lift – an incision that goes all the way around the lower abdomen and the back removing excess skin to the whole lower area.
Choosing the right Consultant
The first step to any private patient journey is to choose which Plastic Surgeon you’d like to have treatment with. We have three expert Consultant Plastic Surgeons who will support you through your tummy tuck, from pre-assessment to recovery.
Our useful guide can help you to choose your Consultant.
Questions to answer
Before coming in for your initial consultation, it’s important to think about the following questions:
- Why are you thinking of having an abdominoplasty at this time in your life? You need to ensure your home environment is a calm and clean space to recover.
- Are you at a consistent, healthy weight? You will only qualify for surgery if your weight has plateaued for around six months.
- How would you like to look after your tummy tuck? Think about what outcome you want and if you’re choosing to have surgery without the influence of others.
What happens during your initial consultation?
During your initial consultation, your medical history will be discussed and you’ll be asked to disclose all current medications and supplements to your surgeon.
It’s important to avoid blood-thinning medications, such as aspirin, for at least two weeks before surgery — and to stop smoking at least six weeks prior to surgery to promote better healing.
Your BMI will be assessed to ensure you’re at the optimum weight for surgery and you may have some pre-surgery medical tests.
Your Consultant will talk through your goals and expectations. Be prepared to have your abdomen assessed and for photos to be taken – but this will only happen with your consent.
After a final decision is made following your cooling-off period and the date of your surgery has been booked, there are several things you can do to prepare for your surgery.
Preparing for surgery
1. Preparing your body
• Maintain a stable weight for at least six months before surgery
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet, stay hydrated and engage in regular exercise to ensure your body is in the best condition
2. Preparing your mind
• Setting realistic expectations for your post-surgery recovery is important to avoid any initial disappointment, as it will take time and patience to get the results you desire
• Be prepared for the emotional ups and downs during recovery
3. Preparing your home
• Set up a comfortable resting area with necessary supplies (pillows, blankets, books, etc.) and ensure access to essentials such as water, snacks and medications
4. Support system
• Will you have someone who can drive you to and from our hospital? Depending on the time of your surgery, you may be required to stay overnight, so will they be available the following day?
• Will someone be available to assist you for the first few days post-surgery?
5. Packing for the hospital
• Loose, comfortable clothing for day and night, toiletries, tablets and medicines and your admission letter are essentials to pack for an overnight stay at our hospital
• Our ward rooms are modern and have ensuite bathrooms, with shower facilities
6. Activity Restrictions
• Plan to take at least two weeks off from work post-surgery
• Avoid strenuous activities for at least six weeks, as you’ll be wearing a special type of compression garment such as a corset or compression pants for this length of time
Book your initial consultation for tummy tuck surgery
If you want a tight, toned tummy with abdominoplasty surgery, our dedicated specialised cosmetic nurses, who will see you through your patient journey pre- and post-tummy tuck surgery, are available for any questions that you might have.
Our leading Cosmetic and Plastic Surgeons have many years of experience and are members of esteemed professional bodies including The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) and The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS). Using the latest techniques and treatments, we can help you to achieve your desired outcomes.
Considering cosmetic surgery? Now’s the perfect time to explore your options with our limited-time offer of free consultations. Our expert Consultants are here to guide you through every step, ensuring you make informed decisions about your aesthetic goals. Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to transform your look and boost your confidence. Book your free consultation today with our our online booking tool or by contacting our Private Patient Team via Livechat or on 01580 363158.
Published on 10 September 2024