Abdominoplasty — Tummy Tuck

Basic information

Weight fluctuations, pregnancies, or long-term obesity often stretch the abdominal fascia. This can lead to separation of the abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) along the midline. In some cases, the tissues do not return to their original state even after the stretching ends. Sagging tissue may remain on the abdomen permanently, often becoming a cosmetic concern.

The abdomen can be surgically tightened through plastic surgery. The procedure involves removing excess, loose skin, tightening the abdominal muscles if needed, and removing any localized fat. Abdominoplasty can target areas of various sizes. In addition to traditional abdominoplasty, there is modified abdominoplasty, which focuses on tightening and shaping the lower abdomen below the navel. Circumferential abdominoplasty (body lift) is a more extensive procedure in which skin and tissue are removed from around the entire torso.

About 80 % of our patients are everyday women. Often, the patient is a mother of 2–3 children who wishes to correct breasts that have lost shape due to breastfeeding or abdominal muscles separated by pregnancy.
(Plastic Surgeon Riikka Veltheim – Kauneus & Terveys 10/2017)

Abdominoplasty – preparation and surgery

Before the procedure, we recommend a personal consultation with a clinic consultant, nurse, or physician. During this consultation, you’ll receive detailed information about the surgery and its process. Aftercare instructions and possible risks will also be reviewed. Together with your consultant or doctor, the best treatment option will be determined. Sometimes, abdominoplasty is part of a more extensive surgical plan.

You will receive a laboratory referral. These tests are mandatory before the surgery. Bring your results with you on the day of the procedure. The consultant or physician will also collect your medical history. Be sure to disclose all relevant health issues. If everything is in order, your surgery date can be scheduled.

On the day of surgery, you’ll first meet with the operating surgeon. A surgical “map” will be drawn on your abdomen, and then an anesthesiologist will discuss the anesthesia and perform a health check if needed.
Abdominoplasty is always performed under general anesthesia.

After surgery, you will be closely monitored for several hours by the anesthesiologist and recovery nurse, and you’ll remain under observation at the clinic for the rest of the day. You’ll usually be discharged later in the evening. Pain medication will be provided if needed. Postoperative pain is individual, but generally quite manageable. Painkillers are typically unnecessary after the first two days.

Abdominoplasty – recovery

Recovery is individual and takes a few weeks.
The wound area must be kept clean and dry. A follow-up visit and stitch removal are typically done about 10 days after surgery.

Swelling and bruising may occur and can be significant, lasting for 2–3 weeks. Arnizen products can be used for bruises, and Scarsilc gel for scar care.

Most patients return to work and social activities within 1–2 weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure.
Compression garments and adhesive dressings help reduce swelling, bruising, and postoperative pain.

Heavy physical activity should be avoided for three weeks after surgery. However, light physical activity promotes healing. During these three weeks, avoid lifting or pushing heavy objects. It is also wise to refrain from sexual activity during the first week, as arousal can increase swelling or bruising. Strenuous activities (e.g., aerobics, running, weightlifting, swimming, tennis) and sauna use should also be avoided for three weeks. Final results can be assessed no sooner than six months after surgery.

Abdominoplasty – wound care instructions

• Keep the wound dry.
• Keep a dressing over the wound until stitches are removed.
• Change the dressing if it becomes dirty or wet. Dressings must be sterile. Sterile dressing packs are available at pharmacies.
• After surgery, keep the wound completely dry for 10 days. After this, it’s fine if it gets wet during showering.
• Do not rub the wound or surrounding area. Wet dressings should be replaced with dry, sterile ones.
• Avoid saunas or steam until stitches are removed and for at least two weeks after stitch removal.
• Avoid unnecessary movement of the wound area.
• Contact your doctor if you experience increasing pain, fever, redness, persistent heavy bleeding, constant moisture through the dressing, or a foul odor.
• Stitches are removed 10–14 days after surgery
• A compression garment should be worn over the surgical area for 4–5 weeks
• Smoking significantly impairs wound healing.

Abdominoplasty – scar care

A scar will form at the incision site after the stitches are removed. You can influence its healing with proper self-care. To speed up fading and softening of the scar, you may use Scarsilc cream or gel twice daily for about four weeks. Avoid friction on the scar area.

Protect the scar from sun exposure for three months to prevent dark pigmentation.

Abdominoplasty – risks and complications

All surgeries carry risks. In tummy tuck surgery, risks and complications are minimal. With our highly trained team of doctors and nurses, complications are very rare. However, the risk of bleeding, infection, scar tissue formation, and anesthesia-related issues exists in every operation.

Infection can occur in any surgery. As a precaution, antibiotic treatment is prescribed after all abdominal wall surgeries.
A hematoma is a localized collection of blood under the skin near the wound. These usually appear shortly after surgery. Small hematomas often resolve on their own, but larger ones may require medical removal.

Temporary numbness or altered sensation in the surgical area is possible, though uncommon. This usually improves over time.

Abdominoplasty – results

Swelling and bruising subside within a few weeks. It may take up to three months for the surgical area to fully settle. Our clinic does everything possible to ensure the procedure suits your needs. Our goal is to help your body look and feel natural after surgery. Our surgical team strives to make your experience as smooth and successful as possible.

Abdominoplasty can help you achieve your desired appearance. Improved self-esteem and confidence are also important benefits of this surgery.