Dr. Diaz is an expert in Plastic Surgery in Madrid, specializing in abdominoplasty, thigh lift and mastopexy. In this article he talks about the technique of abdominoplasty and the characteristics of this surgery.
Abdominoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure that consists of reconstructing the abdominal wall. This procedure is used to eliminate localized fat or excess skin produced by pregnancy or excessive weight loss. Thus, what is achieved is to reshape the abdomen and waist, so there is a remodeling of the body shape.
What does abdominoplasty consist of?
Abdominoplasty is performed under general anesthesia, as it involves making one or more incisions in the abdomen. Another technique that can be applied is the mini-abdominoplasty, in which smaller incisions are made.
During the treatment a horizontal incision is made over the pubic area extending to the hip. Through this incision all the abdominal fat and excess skin is released, tightening the abdominal muscles.
Once the intervention is performed, the excess skin is placed in its new position and the navel is well positioned using very fine and concealed sutures. The intervention usually lasts between two and three hours, while the mini-abdominoplasty takes between one and two.
Is abdominoplasty a health or cosmetic procedure?
Abdominoplasty can be performed for several reasons, so it is important to make an assessment of the circumstances that lead the patient to undergo the treatment.
The intervention can be performed for aesthetic reasons, when the patient has an adequate weight for his height, but in the abdominal area there is excess skin or fat. Another aesthetic reason is after pregnancy, since changes are perceived in the abdominal area due to the separation of the muscles.
The operation can also be performed for health reasons, for example, when a patient is overweight, the intervention is performed to contribute to weight loss.
The most important thing before performing abdominoplasty, whether for aesthetics or health, is to assess the condition of the skin and its elasticity.
Benefits of abdominoplasty
After abdominoplasty aesthetic improvement is achieved and the patient has more security and confidence. In this way, an improvement in self-esteem is achieved and the patient’s attitude changes. Health benefits are also obtained, since the patient is given more mobility and energy by getting rid of some weight.
Risks of abdominoplasty
Surgical interventions carry risks, so it is important to study the physiognomy and medical history of each patient. The risks are minimal when you go to a professional, as it warns of all complications to the patient.
It is likely that the patient will have problems of pain, irritation and inflammation. It is important for the surgeon to take into account during the preoperative period if the patient suffers from diabetes, liver or heart problems. In the same way, it is necessary to consider if the patient has a smoking habit, since he/she will have to stop smoking two months before the intervention to avoid risks.
Are the results of abdominoplasty definitive?
The permanence of the result depends on the patient’s post-operative care, as well as the integration of healthy habits in daily life. What is recommended to the patient is a balanced diet and physical activity.
In the revision consultations, what is done is to indicate nutritional norms to the patient, as well as exercise and possible diets depending on each case. The first one is done three or four days after the intervention, and then one a week for a month. The results start to be visible three months after the intervention.