About Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck Surgery)
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tighten the abdominal muscles.
It is ideal for individuals who have:
• Loose or sagging skin after pregnancy or significant weight loss
• Separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
• Stubborn fat deposits that don’t respond to diet or exercise
The goal is to create a flatter, firmer, and more toned abdomen, restoring body confidence and comfort.
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⚖️ Types of Abdominoplasty
1. Full (Classic) Abdominoplasty
• A horizontal incision is made from hip to hip.
• Excess skin and fat are removed, abdominal muscles are tightened, and the belly button is repositioned.
2. Mini Abdominoplasty
• Targets the lower abdomen (below the belly button).
• Involves a smaller incision and shorter recovery.
3. Extended Abdominoplasty
• Used when there is excess tissue extending to the sides or lower back, often after major weight loss.
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Pre-Operative Instructions
🔹 1. Consultation and Preparation
• Discuss your medical history, expectations, and desired results with your plastic surgeon.
• Mention any chronic conditions, medications, allergies, or prior abdominal surgeries.
• Your doctor may ask for blood tests, an ECG, or imaging before surgery.
🔹 2. Before Surgery
• Stop blood-thinning medications (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and herbal supplements) 2 weeks before surgery.
• Quit smoking or vaping at least 2 weeks before and after surgery—it delays wound healing.
• Maintain a stable, healthy weight before surgery for the best result.
• Arrange for someone to accompany you home and assist for the first few days.
• Do not eat or drink anything for 8 hours before your procedure.
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Post-Operative Care
🔹 1. Immediately After Surgery
• You’ll wear a compression garment or abdominal binder to reduce swelling and support healing.
• Small drain tubes may be placed to remove excess fluids; your surgeon will show you how to care for them.
• Mild pain, swelling, and tightness are normal—take prescribed pain medication as directed.
🔹 2. At Home (First Week)
• Rest as much as possible, but walk gently around the room to improve blood circulation.
• Keep your upper body slightly elevated when resting to reduce tension on the incision.
• Avoid standing fully upright for the first few days—it may strain the stitches.
• Keep the incision area clean and dry; follow your doctor’s dressing instructions.
• Continue wearing the compression garment day and night as prescribed.
🔹 3. Recovery Phase
• Most drains are removed within 7–10 days.
• Light daily activity can usually resume after two weeks.
• Avoid lifting, bending, or strenuous exercise for at least 6–8 weeks.
• Swelling will gradually subside over several weeks, and scars will fade over time.
🔹 4. Nutrition and Hydration
• Eat light, balanced meals rich in protein, vitamins, and fiber to support healing.
• Drink plenty of water and avoid high-sodium foods to reduce swelling.
🔹 5. Warning Signs — Contact Your Doctor If You Notice:
• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F)
• Excessive bleeding, pus, or redness around the incision
• Severe pain is not relieved by medication.
• Shortness of breath, chest pain, or leg swelling (could indicate a clot)
Final Notes
• Patience is key—the final contour of your abdomen may take 3–6 months to fully appear.
• Keep a healthy lifestyle after surgery to maintain results.
• Protect your scars from the sun for at least 6 months using sunscreen or covering clothing.
• Follow every instruction given by your surgeon for the safest and most beautiful outcome.
About Mammoplasty (Breast Reduction or Lift Surgery)
Mammoplasty refers to surgical procedures that reshape or reduce the size of the breasts.
The main goals are to improve breast shape, symmetry, and proportion, relieve physical discomfort, and enhance self-confidence.
There are two common types:
1. Reduction Mammoplasty (Breast Reduction):
Removes excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve smaller, lighter, and firmer breasts.
2. Mastopexy (Breast Lift):
Lifts and reshapes sagging breasts without significantly changing their size.
Occasionally, both procedures are combined to achieve the best contour and comfort.
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Why Mammoplasty May Be Recommended
• Back, neck, or shoulder pain caused by heavy breasts
• Skin irritation or rashes beneath the breasts
• Difficulty exercising or finding comfortable clothing
• Uneven breast size or shape
• Sagging after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss
The surgery can bring both aesthetic improvement and physical relief.
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Pre-Operative Instructions
🔹 1. Consultation and Preparation
• Meet with your plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, breast size, and medical history.
• A mammogram or breast ultrasound may be requested before surgery to evaluate breast tissue.
• Inform your doctor about any medical conditions, allergies, and medications you use.
🔹 2. Before Surgery
• Stop blood-thinning medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, herbal supplements) two weeks before surgery.
• Quit smoking at least 2 weeks before and after the operation (it delays healing and increases risks).
• Maintain a healthy diet and hydration before surgery.
• Arrange for someone to accompany you home and help for the first few days.
• Avoid eating or drinking for 8 hours before surgery.
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Post-Operative Care
🔹 1. Immediately After Surgery
• You will wake up wearing a supportive surgical bra or compression garment.
• Small drain tubes may be placed temporarily to remove fluid buildup.
• Some swelling, bruising, or tightness is normal during the first few days.
• Take prescribed pain relief and antibiotics as directed.
🔹 2. First Week at Home
• Rest well, but try gentle movement around the house to maintain circulation.
• Sleep on your back with your upper body elevated.
• Keep the incisions clean and dry, and do not remove dressings unless instructed.
• Avoid lifting arms above shoulder level, pushing, or carrying heavy items.
• Continue wearing the surgical bra 24/7 for proper support.
🔹 3. Recovery and Activity
• Drains are usually removed within 3–5 days.
• You can return to light activities after about 1 week, depending on your comfort.
• Avoid exercise, heavy lifting, or strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks.
• Scars will fade gradually over several months—massage or silicone gel may be recommended.
🔹 4. Watch for Warning Signs
Contact your doctor if you notice:
• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F)
• Persistent pain, redness, or unusual swelling
• Fluid, pus, or bleeding from incisions
• Nipple discoloration or loss of sensation
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Final Notes
• Final breast shape and position become more defined over 3–6 months as swelling subsides.
• Scars will continue to fade with time; protect them from the sun for at least 6 months.
• Maintain a stable weight and wear supportive bras to preserve long-term results.
• Follow-up appointments are essential for safe and proper healing.
Mammoplasty not only transforms the body but also often brings renewed comfort, confidence, and freedom in daily life. 💗