Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

A Tummy Tuck is a common procedure which aims to improve the patient’s body image by sculpting the waistline and smoothing the stomach. Some patients feel self-conscious about loose skin around the stomach area sometimes due to weakened abdominal muscles as a result of pregnancy or a C-Section and sometimes due to weight loss.

Abdominoplasty surgery has evolved over the years; thus, the type and extent of the procedure will be dependent on the individual patient requirements. Succinctly, four components are addressed in the surgery:

• The removal of excess skin around the abdominal region
• The removal of excess fat
• The tightening of splayed abdominal muscles (often as a result of pregnancy, and/or aging) and
• The re-positioning/creation of an umbilicus (belly button)

Liposuction techniques may also be added to the procedure for desired shaping and rejuvenation where required. It is a highly technical surgical procedure wherein the eventual scar will often be hidden on the bikini line.

It is important to express your specific requirements during the Consultation where Dr Ngwenya will then discuss with you the procedure options  that will meet your specific requirements.

Procedure

Operation: Normally surgery takes 2-4 hours with general anaesthetic
Hospital Stay: 1 to 2 nights
Driving: 2 weeks
Back to Work: 2-4 weeks

Recovery

Residual swelling, pain, tightness and lack of mobility will be experienced post surgery which is normal.  Temporary numbness along the incision line will resolve over time.