Let’s work towards a flatter belly

The Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty is a very popular body shaping procedure in my practice. In essence the Tummy Tuck surgery is removal of excess skin and fat from the abdomen and the simultaneous tightening of the abdominal muscle wall.

The tummy Tuck is very often combined with Liposuction to work towards a more significant result*.

Who traditionally undergoes Tummy Tuck surgery?

There are many causes for developing a “tummy” and apart from poor diet and lack of exercise there are a few significant reasons that may contribute to this paunch:

• Post pregnancy, especially following caesarean section
• Significant weight loss – the belly can be very resistant to weight loss
• Genetics
• Hormonal

How is the Tummy Tuck surgery performed?

Abdominoplasty surgery is a long procedure, performed under general anaesthetic in theatre. The surgery lasts approximately 90 to 120 minutes. In most cases your belly button will need to be repositioned to allow for the removal of skin.

• First Dr Chris Snijman will make an incision from hip to hip – carefully hiding the scar within the panty line
• Then the skin and fat is lifted from the abdomen and the excess is removed
• Should it be necessary, the abdominal muscle will be sutured to increase strength and form a flattened stomach.
• Finally Dr Chris Snijman will insert drains and close

Your drains will stay in place for up to four weeks* – these are to assist with fluid drainage and hasten the healing process. In some cases Dr Chris Snijman will ask you to stay in hospital for a night to ensure your comfort immediately after surgery.

Risks and complications?

Dr Chris Snijman will support you every step of the way

Dr Chris Snijman will explain, in detail, the complications and risks during the consultation process. Having realistic expectations and understand that the healing process plays a massive role in the final aesthetic outcome.

The most significant worry with Abdominoplasty surgery is the scars. They are long and must be carefully considered. However, there are numerous scar treatment options on the market.

What is the recovery like?

The healing process with a large surgical procedure like Tummy Tuck surgery is long. It is imperative that you keep your follow up appointments for check-ups and dressing changes. That said, it is expected that your result will only be visible after approximately 6 weeks*.
In this time you will not be allowed to do any heavy lifting and for the initial week or so, you will need help with driving and general daily chores.

Combined procedures

Because Tummy Tuck surgery is significantly long, it is not common to combine the procedure with anything other than Liposuction surgery. Some patients do undergo Tummy Tuck surgery with Breast Augmentation and Breast Lift surgery but this is not the norm.

Undergoing your Tummy Tuck with Dr Chris Snijman is as simple as making an appointment. Call his Morningside rooms now on 011 884 9957.

* Disclaimer
Please refer to my Disclaimer for more information.