A tummy tuck – also known as an abdominoplasty – is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure regularly performed by Mr Chris Fenn, consultant plastic, aesthetic and cosmetic surgeon in Leeds, West Yorkshire.
What is a tummy tuck?
An abdominoplasty operation aims to create a firmer, flatter stomach by surgically removing surplus fat and skin from the abdomen and tightening the tummy muscles.
What are the benefits of a tummy tuck?
Many people have folds of excess tissue and skin around their abdomen. This could be as a result of significant weight loss or simply because of the natural ageing process. Likewise, following pregnancy, some women can develop a protruding abdomen due to separation of the tummy muscles.
The aesthetic benefits of a tummy tuck – such as improved appearance, tighter tummy muscles and flatter look often lead to an increase in self-esteem and confidence.
Men and women who had previously hid their shape behind big tops often feel able to wear more fitted clothing after their abdominoplasty. They frequently say that their life has changed considerably as their new slender look helps them to feel more youthful and comfortable in different types of clothes and underwear.
Am I suitable for tummy tuck surgery?
If you have loose, overhanging skin on your tummy that you have been unable to shift with diet and exercise, then you may be suitable for an abdominoplasty.
If you are considering surgery then the first step is to arrange a consultation with Mr Chris Fenn. After an examination of your abdomen and a discussion about your medical history, Mr Fenn will be able to confirm your suitability for the operation.
During the same appointment and to ensure that you make an informed decision, Mr Chris Fenn will discuss the risks associated with tummy tuck surgery and will encourage you to ask questions and take your time to think about the procedure before you decide to go ahead.
It is worth noting that as tummy tuck surgery is not a treatment for weight loss, if you are in the process of losing weight, you will be advised to wait until you have achieved your target weight before you have your abdominoplasty.
Similarly, if you are female and planning on having a baby in the future, you may be advised to wait until your family is complete before you have a tummy tuck.
What does an abdominoplasty involve?
Tummy tuck surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic and usually takes around 2-3 hours depending on how much skin and fat needs to be removed.
There are different types of abdominoplasty – again dependant on the amount of fat and skin to be removed. Mr Chris Fenn will discuss the most suitable tummy tuck for you during your consultation.
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Liposuction only
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Mini Tummy Tuck
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Standard Tummy Tuck
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Liposuction
A tummy tuck can sometimes be combined with liposuction – particularly to help debulk the ‘flanks’/sides.
Mini tummy tuck
If you only have a small amount of surplus skin and fat to be removed or simply loose skin on the lower abdomen, a mini tummy tuck may be the most appropriate procedure for you. Similar to the standard tummy tuck, incisions will be made across the lower abdomen but not around your navel. Your existing belly button will remain in place.
Regardless of the type of abdominoplasty you have, you should be able to retain your new shape as long as you maintain a healthy weight after your surgery.
Standard tummy tuck
Incisions are made across the lower abdomen (along the area commonly referred to in women as the ‘bikini line’) and around the navel. Surplus skin and fat are removed then stretched muscles are pulled together and stitched in place. The remaining skin is pulled down and a new belly button is created.
There will be a scar around the belly button and across the lower abdomen. This can often be hidden by your underwear.
Extended tummy tuck
If you have lost a considerable amount of weight, you may need an extended abdominoplasty. In addition to the standard incisions, a further cut down the centre of the abdomen may be necessary. Sometimes another option is to extend the incision around the sides and, when there is substantial excess fat, across the lower back.
How long does it take to recover?
You will need to stay in hospital for 2 nights following your operation.
Your tummy may feel tight, bruised and painful for a few weeks after the operation. This can be managed with painkilling tablets. The recovery is similar to that experienced following a caesarean section.
You will need to wear an elasticated support garment for approximately 6 weeks after surgery. This will help you to feel more comfortable and will reduce swelling. Whilst you will be encouraged to stay mobile at home, you will be advised to avoid strenuous activity for around 6-8 weeks after the operation.
Depending on the nature of your job, you will be able to return to work 2-4 weeks after surgery.
You will be asked to return to the hospital for a series of follow-up appointments with both Mr Chris Fenn and the cosmetic surgery nursing team to ensure you are healing as you should be.
How much does tummy tuck surgery cost?
If you would like to know the price for an abdominoplasty, contact Mr Chris Fenn’s secretary, Claire Bartle-Coates on 0113 218 5971, email Claire.bartle-coates@spirehealthcare.com or complete an on-line enquiry form.
How can I find out more about tummy tuck surgery?
To find out more about tummy tuck surgery or to book a consultation with Mr Chris Fenn, call his secretary Claire Bartle-Coates on 0113 218 5971, email Claire.bartle-coates@spirehealthcare.com or complete an on-line enquiry form.