For both men and women alike, a slim, toned abdomen enhances well-being and self-confidence. It often happens that after major weight loss or several pregnancies, the body is no longer able to restore the abdominal skin and muscles to create a slim profile. Even targeted muscle training can only help to a very limited extent because it only has a minimal effect on the weakened connective tissue. The sagging that results from this weakness–which is often due to genetic factors–can be corrected with an abdominoplasty. In some cases, the muscles of the abdominal wall also need to be tightened. After multiple pregnancies in particular, the muscles are often no longer able to fully return to their original shape due to the massive expansion caused by pregnancy.

METHODS

An abdominoplasty itself is not intended to reduce fat mass, but rather to optimize the contour of the body. In most cases, abdominoplasty is combined with liposuction to remove fat from the abdomen and waist. This is called lipoabdominoplasty. In this combined procedure, surplus fat is first suctioned out of the abdominal wall using a cannula. Only after that is the second step performed: the abdominoplasty itself. This step includes the removal of surplus skin tissue.

ABOUT THE PROCEDURE

Before the actual procedure, the Praxisklinik Urania meticulously assesses the patient’s health. The patient must be a nonsmoker. While lipoabdominoplasty can be performed in twilight sleep and on an outpatient basis, a classic abdominoplasty with tightening of the abdominal muscles requires general anesthesia. Therefore, the classic abdominoplasty is usually done on an inpatient basis.

If wound healing proceeds normally, the stitches can be removed after ten to twelve days. The patient must wear a special compression garment for four to six weeks after the procedure. It is essential to take physical rest for four weeks after the procedure

RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS

The postoperative risks include the formation of dents, asymmetries, circulatory disorders or even dying off of parts of the abdominal skin. Postoperative bleeding, swelling and numbness of the abdominal skin, however, are usually only temporary after-effects and can be treated medically as required. If wound fluid accumulates under the abdominal wall (seroma), it can be removed by suction.

The most serious complication that can occur after abdominoplasty is deep vein thrombosis in the legs. In a worst-case scenario, this can lead to a pulmonary embolism. Therefore, even if the legs are not directly affected by the procedure, compression stockings should be worn during and immediately after the procedure. Ensuring that you walk around enough also helps.