Swelling, bruising, and a sensation of tightness in the abdominal area are normal during the initial recovery period. Patients are advised to wear compression garments, which help reduce swelling, provide support, and promote proper healing.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery designed to address changes in the abdominal area. The procedure removes excess skin and fat, tightens weakened or separated muscles, and enhances the abdominal contour.
Common reasons for seeking this surgery include post-pregnancy changes, significant weight loss, or the natural effects of ageing. It is tailored to suit individual needs, focusing on achieving a smoother, firmer abdominal profile.
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Indications and Benefits
This procedure caters to individuals who experience specific abdominal concerns that cannot be resolved through diet, exercise, or non-surgical means.
- Post-Pregnancy Changes: Conditions such as diastasis recti, where abdominal muscles separate during pregnancy, can cause a protruding abdomen. A tummy tuck helps repair these muscles and restore a flatter stomach.
- Loose Skin After Weight Loss: Significant weight loss, especially after bariatric surgery, often leaves excess, sagging skin in the abdominal area. This procedure removes loose skin, enhancing the overall contour.
- Ageing-Related Laxity: With age, the skin loses its elasticity, leading to drooping and laxity in the abdomen. A tummy tuck addresses these concerns by tightening the skin.
- Functional Improvements: Improved core strength, better posture, and relief from skin irritation or infections caused by skin folds are additional outcomes of the surgery.
- Hernia Repair: Many patients also have umbilical or ventral hernias—common conditions where tissue pushes through weakened areas of the abdominal wall. These can be addressed and repaired during the same procedure, avoiding the need for separate surgeries.
Tummy Tuck Techniques
Mini Tummy Tuck
Suitable for individuals with mild skin laxity or small fat deposits below the navel. This technique uses a shorter incision, focuses on the lower abdomen, and generally allows for quicker recovery.
Full Tummy Tuck
A comprehensive approach addressing the entire abdominal area. It involves tightening abdominal muscles, removing excess skin and fat, and repositioning the navel to achieve a smooth and natural appearance.
Extended Tummy Tuck
Designed for individuals with significant weight loss, this technique addresses the abdomen, flanks, and lower back, creating a balanced and refined body contour.
Liposuction-Assisted Tummy Tuck
Combines targeted fat removal through liposuction with skin tightening, making it effective for stubborn fat deposits and moderate skin laxity.
Preparing for the Procedure
Consultation and Assessment
A detailed evaluation covers medical history, current health, and aesthetic goals. The abdominal area is assessed to identify concerns such as excess skin or muscle separation, and a personalised surgical plan is developed.
Pre-Surgical Instructions
Patients are advised to stop smoking several weeks before surgery to support healing. Maintaining a stable weight and avoiding medications or supplements like aspirin that increase bleeding risks are also recommended.
Improving Physical Condition
Achieving a stable weight and managing existing medical conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension, helps reduce potential risks during and after surgery. Adjustments may be necessary to address any underlying issues.
Step-by-Step Procedure
1. Anaesthesia
The procedure is conducted under general anaesthesia, which keeps the patient fully asleep and comfortable throughout the surgery. This ensures that no pain or discomfort is experienced during the operation.
2. Incisions
Incisions are made, typically along the bikini line, to ensure scars are as discreet as possible. The length and placement of the incisions depend on the specific technique being used, such as a mini or full tummy tuck.
3. Muscle Tightening
If diastasis recti (separation of abdominal muscles) is present, the abdominal muscles are sutured together to restore a firmer and more stable abdominal wall. This step helps improve the contour and support of the abdomen.
4. Skin Removal and Contouring
Excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is carefully draped to create a smoother appearance. For a full tummy tuck, the navel is repositioned to ensure it aligns naturally with the new abdominal contour.
5. Closure
The incisions are closed using precise suturing techniques, designed to minimise visible scarring. In some cases, additional support such as surgical adhesives or tapes may be used to optimise healing.
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Post-Surgical Care and Recovery
Initial Recovery
Recovery Timeline
Most patients can resume light activities within 1–2 weeks, though strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for 6–8 weeks. Complete recovery varies by individual, but scars typically fade gradually over 6–12 months.
Aftercare Recommendations
Following post-operative instructions is necessary for optimal healing. This includes keeping the surgical site clean, avoiding heavy lifting or vigorous activities, and attending follow-up appointments to ensure proper recovery and address any concerns. Any unusual symptoms, such as increased redness or discomfort, should be monitored and reported promptly.
Potential Risks and Complications
Common risks associated with a tummy tuck include swelling, bruising, scarring, and temporary numbness in the treated area. Rare complications may include infection, fluid accumulation (seroma), or uneven results. Over the long term, significant weight fluctuations could affect the outcome, potentially requiring revisional surgery to maintain the desired results.
Results and Longevity
Patients typically notice visible improvements as post-surgical swelling subsides. Final results become evident over several months and can last long-term with a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. Maintaining consistency in diet and exercise can help preserve the enhanced abdominal contour.
Body Contouring and Rejuvenation Procedures
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a tummy tuck remove stretch marks?
During the procedure, excess skin and fat are removed, which can smooth out the skin and reduce the appearance of stretch marks. However, stretch marks that are above the area being treated may not be affected. While a tummy tuck can improve the overall appearance of your abdomen and make the skin look firmer and smoother, it is not specifically designed to remove stretch marks. Some patients find that stretch marks fade or become less noticeable after the procedure, but others may need additional treatments like laser therapy or topical treatments for more significant improvements in the appearance of stretch marks.
How soon after childbirth can I have a tummy tuck?
Most surgeons recommend waiting at least 6–12 months after childbirth to allow the body to heal completely and weight to stabilise. This ensures better recovery and long-lasting results.
Can a tummy tuck result in uneven contours?
Minor irregularities in contour can sometimes occur. These may improve naturally during recovery or can be corrected with additional treatments if needed.
What happens if I gain weight after the procedure?
Weight gain can stretch the skin and abdominal muscles, potentially diminishing the results of the surgery. Maintaining a consistent weight is recommended to preserve the improvements achieved by the procedure.
Can I undergo a tummy tuck more than once?
While not common, some individuals may consider a second tummy tuck due to factors such as significant weight changes or ageing. A detailed consultation with a surgeon is necessary to assess whether a repeat procedure is appropriate.
Dr Terence Goh
Choosing to combine the intricate skills of microsurgery with aesthetic surgery, Dr Goh specialises in gynaecomastia, surgery of the Asian face, particularly Asian eyelid surgery and rhinoplasty.
Blending the precision of microsurgery with the artistry of aesthetic surgery, Dr Goh has a special interest in gynaecomastia, facial procedures, including ptosis and eyelid surgery, as well as rhinoplasty.
He also offers a full range of body contouring procedures such as mummy makeovers, breast augmentation, liposuction, and body sculpting—designed to help patients feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin.
Beyond aesthetics, Dr Goh remains active in reconstructive microsurgery, with expertise in breast reconstruction, head and neck reconstruction, and lower limb salvage—restoring both form and function where it’s needed most.
- Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, National University of Singapore
- Master of Medicine, National University of Singapore
- Member of the Royal College of Surgeons
- Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore (Plastic Surgery)
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