Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
The tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedure
Your tummy button is stitched into its new position as close to the mid point of the tummy as possible.
This operation takes approximately 2½ hours to complete and is done under general anaesthetic. We make an incision which runs from the hipbone, just above the pubic hair line, to the opposite side. We remove loose excess skin and fatty tissue, and repair any damaged abdominal muscles. Your tummy button remains attached to the tummy wall and is stitched into its new position as close to the mid point of the tummy as possible.
You will be in hospital for one or two nights after the operation.
When you wake up, you will have a tube (drain) coming out of each end of the wound to collect any excess blood, and these are removed when there is very little drainage.
There is a very small chance of not being able to pass water after the operation, in which case a small tube (catheter) has to be passed temporarily into the bladder until you are up and about. Usually this is only for a few hours.
Stitches are removed a week after the operation.
