A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty surgery, aims to remove excess skin and tissue, and also tightens the loose muscles around the abdominal wall.
However, before making the decision to undergo surgery, it is important that patients are aware of what’s involved in the procedure.
Top Five Things To Know Prior To Undergoing an Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
1. Can an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) reverse or help manage diabetes?
This is a popular question by patients who have been diagnosed with diabetes.
It has been a long misconception that a tummy tuck procedure can reverse diabetes. However, a tummy tuck is a body contouring procedure and not used to treat health conditions.
According to ASPS, (The American Society of Plastic Surgeons), an abdominoplasty will NOT aid in treating diabetes.
Tummy tuck surgery is generally performed after a patient has undergone weight loss and has maintained a healthy BMI below 30. Reducing BMI and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can aid in managing diabetes. This will also reduce the risks associated with the surgery.
2. Can a abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) be performed after a C-section?
After pregnancy, many women enquire about having a tummy tuck procedure to restore contour to their stomach.
It is certainly possible to have a tummy tuck after cesarean delivery however, it is recommended that mothers give themselves adequate time to recover from their c-section before considering an abdominoplasty.
Patients considering tummy tuck surgery should speak to a qualified plastic surgeon.
Factors to consider include:
- Whether more children are planned
- Time since the cesarean or last pregnancy
- Whether the patient is still breastfeeding (has implications on anaesthesia and recovery)
3. How long does it take for abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) scars to fade?
As with any surgical procedure, there will be some scarring where the incisions were made.
A skilled surgeon will be able to minimise the appearance of scarring however, it can take up to 2 years for the scars to fade after a tummy tuck procedure.
This also depends on a number of factors including the patient’s age and skin tone.
Dr Mark Hanikeri will be able to recommend suitable scar management after the procedure.
4. Standing up straight after a abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)?
Standing up is one of the physical limitations during the recovery of a tummy tuck procedure.
It is recommended not to attempt to stand up directly after the procedure as this can increase tension in the area where the incisions have been made.
After a tummy tuck, patients should also sleep in a slightly reclined position as this will ensure that the abdomen and the incisional area is not overly stretched.
5. How much does a abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) cost in Australia?
The cost of a tummy tuck procedure in Australia can vary quite a bit depending on the selected plastic surgeon.
Generally, the costs will involve:
- Surgeon’s fees
- Anaesthesia fees
- Hospital fees
- Post-surgery medications and garments
For the full information on the cost of the tummy tuck procedure with Dr Mark Hanikeri and any associated fees, please contact our friendly team.
Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) Perth
If you have any more questions regarding the tummy tuck procedure, either pre or post-surgery, please get in touch with Dr Mark Hanikeri and his team. Call on (08) 9380 0311 or alternatively contact us online.
