TUMMY TUCK ( ABDOMINOPLASTY )

In our clinic, abdominoplasty is done as creating natural contours and dimpling around the belly button similar to its original shape.

Once stretched by pregnancy or weight gain, the abdomen often fails to return to its original shape. Stretched beyond the capacity to return to normal, these tissues will also fail to respond to exercise or diet programs. In these cases, abdominoplasty can provide a long-lasting solution. Abdominoplasty (commonly called a tummy tuck) is a frequently performed procedure used to tighten overly stretched abdominal muscles and skin for a smoother, flatter appearance. Abdominoplasty can also be combined with liposuction.

The best candidates for abdominoplasty are:
• In relatively good shape, except for the abdominal area
• Not pregnant
• Not severely overweight
• Not planning to lose a considerable amount of weight
• In good health

Wanting to improve their appearance and/or comfort
There are several different abdominoplasty techniques. The most common procedure is performed under general anesthesia. In the full abdominoplasty procedure, a skin cut is made across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. Another skin cut is made around the belly button to free the surrounding skin, and the all of the skin is separated from the abdominal wall. Then the surgeon pulls the loose muscles from the left and the right sides and sutures them together. This tightens the muscles to create a stronger abdominal wall and a smaller waist. Excess skin is removed, and a new opening is made for the belly button at the right position. The skin cuts are closed with stitches, and gauze is placed over the skin cuts.

If your only problem area is below the belly button, you may benefit from a less complex procedure called a mini-abdominoplasty. Or, your surgeon may recommend either a mini or complete abdominoplasty done in conjunction with liposuction to remove fat deposits from the hips, for a better body contour. Sometimes liposuction alone offers the best results.

Op. Dr. H. Nazmi BAYÇIN