What is a Tummy Tuck?

Tummy Tuck is a very popular procedure worldwide, as it gives a whole new look by making the abdomen flat, firm and youthful after the effects of pregnancy, childbirth and weight gain. In fact, 96% of patients who had a tummy tuck said it was ‘worth it’.

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a term used to describe a cosmetic surgery procedure which removes excess or loose skin or fat from the abdominal area (stomach). A tummy tuck can also reduce bulging associated with loose or separated stomach muscles.

Contrary to popular belief a tummy tuck is generally not used for weight loss, instead it is used when diet and exercise have failed but the individual is still bothered by the appearance of their stomach. The result of the tummy tuck procedure is a smoother, firmer, and flatter abdomen.

Two different types of tummy tucks

Prior to the surgery, the patient will be assessed physically by the treating doctor or surgeon. A full medical history will be used to determine whether any current or previous health conditions or medications may interfere with the surgery or with other aspects of the surgery such as the anaesthesia or post-surgical care.

There are two different types of tummy tucks;

1. Full abdominoplasty ( Tummy Tuck) and
2. Partial abdominoplasty ( Mini Tummy Tuck)

Full abdominoplasty or Tummy Tuck removes excess skin and tightens the muscles which lay beneath the skin of the stomach including those around the navel (belly button) area.

Partial abdominoplasty or Mini Tummy Tuck removes excess skin and tightens the muscles of the stomach below the navel area only. In most cases the surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic and the length of time it takes to complete the operation is on a case by case basis. Generally speaking, most tummy tucks are completed within three to four hours.

The Tummy Tuck Surgical Procedure

During a full abdominoplasty the surgeon will make a curved, horizontal incision which runs from one hip to the other and sits near the pubic hairline. Once the incision is made, the skin and fatty tissue are separated from the underlying muscle tissue. The surgeon will then stitch and tighten loose or separated abdominal muscles. Once this has occurred, the surgeon then removes excess fat and excess skin is trimmed. The navel is repositioned and the surgical wound is closed with stitches, clips or tape.

Once the surgical wound is closed a drainage tube, or tubes, may be inserted into the wound to assist in preventing a build up of fluid. Bandages or dressings are usually applied to the area and compression garments may be worn to prevent excess swelling. Patients often experience bruising and swelling, numbness in the skin between the wound and navel, a tugging sensation at the stomach, inability to stand up straight to begin with, and general pain and discomfort.

As a tummy tuck is a surgical procedure, it is important to weigh up the risks and benefits with your treating doctor or surgeon.

There has never been a better time to have Tummy Tuck Surgery

With modern techniques and recent technological advancements, Tummy Tuck Surgery has become safer, effective and capable of delivering results that you always wanted with minimal pain, discomfort and downtime. A capable Plastic Surgeon using modern techniques can offer you better and longer lasting results while the specialist Anaesthetist ensures your safety and comfort in a setting of a Modern Hospital.

As with any medical procedure, it is important to seek the advice of a professional skilled in addressing your specific issue. Each person’s anatomy is different and an examination and evaluation by Plastic Surgeon will help determine the most appropriate and effective approach to meet your particular needs.

The Value and Expertise of a Registered Specialist Surgeon for Tummy Tuck Surgery

Forme Institute Specialists Surgeon are trained to the highest Australian standards

•  AHPRA registered specialists in the medical speciality of Plastic Surgery (plastic surgery include cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery)
• Completed Australian Medical Council accredited surgical training and exams conducted by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). FRACS stands for Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, a qualification awarded only to those doctors who have successfully completed several years of rigorous surgical training. With a commitment to lifelong learning and high standards of professionalism. Consider this qualification when choosing a surgeon.
• Have a lifelong commitment to excellence in cosmetic surgery through research and continuous professional development and membership of learned societies like the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) and the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

These qualifications, standards and certifications are the ‘Australian Standard’ and significantly differ from those who are unregistered surgeons who call themselves “cosmetic surgeon”.

These factors must be taken into consideration when evaluating your surgeon. The cost difference if any should be evaluated in terms of the value attached to personal safety and wellbeing, the value attached to quality of care and the value attached to natural longer lasting results.

(Source: Australia Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) )

For More Before and After photos and Information, Visit our Tummy Tuck Services Page.

Forme Tummy Tuck Services

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About Forme Institute

The Forme Institute is a group of highly qualified and experienced Specialist Plastic Surgeons. We are committed to providing the best practice procedures and the most innovative treatment options. Our team has 20+ years of combined experience practicing plastic surgery. If you’re interested in having liposuction surgery, contact us today to make a consultation appointment.