What is abdominoplasty?
A abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and repositions the muscles of the abdominal wall. With pregnancies or sharp weight fluctuations, the straight muscles of the abdominal wall tend to move apart, giving the abdomen a rounder look. In these situations, the skin also loses elasticity, sometimes gets stretch marks, becomes more flabby and forms folds that abdominoplasty can improve. When abdominoplasty is combined with liposuction, it is called Lipoabdominoplasty.
Who it's for
Abdominoplasty?
Candidates for this surgery should be emotionally mature patients and should understand their own motivations for having the surgery. Realistic expectations are important and it should be realised that the procedure brings improvements, but not perfection. Obviously, a person with greater adiposity, more striated skin, etc., cannot expect the same result as a slim person with better tone. Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck usually have the following characteristics:
- Stable weight;
- Healthy;
- Dissatisfied with the appearance of their abdomen (“apron belly”, sagging, localised fat, bulging abdomen);
- Realistic expectations;
- Don't consider having any more children.
ABDOMINOPLASTY AND MINI ABDOMINOPLASTY
- THE DIFFERENCES
Both abdominoplasty and mini abdominoplasty aim to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen to achieve a firmer, more toned appearance. The main differences between the two procedures are:
Mini Abdominoplasty
It is indicated for patients with moderate sagging; it repositions the rectus abdominis and removes excess skin, in the lower abdomen (below the navel).
Abdominoplasty
It is indicated for patients with more pronounced sagging; it repositions the rectus abdominis and removes excess skin, both in the upper and lower abdomen (above and below the navel).
Surgery Procedure
Abdominoplasty
Your Abdominoplasty consultation
Counselling
The first step of your consultation é a careful assessment of your abdomen, state of health and lifestyle. This will allow us to design a completely personalised plan for you.
Simulation with Vectra 3D
Vectra 3D XT allows you to create a simulation of the results of surgeries such as liposuction, abdominoplasty, breast augmentation, mastopexy, breast reduction, etc.
Detailed explanation
During the abdominoplasty consultation, a personalised treatment plan will be presented and the risks, pre- and post-operative care and the results you can expect will also be explained.
Budget
After the medical consultation, you will be given an exact quote for the surgery. The cost or price of abdominoplasty depends on whether it is combined with liposuction and/or other procedures.
The scars Abdominoplasty
One of the issues that most concerns patients is the appearance of the scar. Abdominoplasty scars are located around the navel and on the lower belly (below the underwear line). The size of the scar varies according to the amount of skin to be removed. It is similar to a caesarean section, but larger.
Type of Anaesthesia
This surgery is usually performed with an epidural and sedation. However, the type of anaesthesia is defined by the anaesthetist according to the combination of procedures to be performed and your medical history. Sedation is administered intravenously so that the patient falls asleep and doesn't notice anything during the entire operation. Then, when the patient is asleep, local anaesthetics are administered so that they don't feel any pain during the surgery. The anaesthetist will be present throughout the surgery for the patient's comfort and safety.
What results can I expect after an abdominoplasty?
Flatter and firmer abdomen
With this surgery, you'll achieve a flatter abdomen with a more toned appearance. You can also get rid of some stretch marks in the lower abdomen.
Better body contouring
This surgery is often combined with other procedures such as liposuction, buttock augmentation and breast surgery, which will provide a better body contour.
Better self-esteem
Abdominoplasty has a very positive impact on your quality of life, self-esteem and the way you relate to your body.
Abdominoplasty
step by step
Marking the standing patient
The markings on the abdomen are made with the patient standing so that the areas to be treated can be correctly visualised.
Sedation
The sedative is administered intravenously by the anaesthetist who will be present throughout the surgery.
Local anaesthesia
The local or epidural anaesthetic is injected while the patient is asleep.
Disinfection and placement of surgical drapes
The area to be operated on is cleaned and disinfected to reduce the risk of infection. Operating drapes are placed to isolate the area from the external environment.
Incision
The incisions are made around the navel and in the lower abdomen, in a similar way to a caesarean section, although with a larger scar. Once the skin has been lifted, the elimination of fat by liposuction begins, followed by repair of the rectus abdominis muscles.
Remove excess skin
Excess skin (below and/or above the abdomen) is removed.
Closing the incisions
The incisions are closed by planes using absorbable thread. The result and symmetry are checked.
Surgical glue
The glue is applied to the scars so that they are isolated from the outside environment. The glue does not require dressings and gradually falls off after 15 days.
Recovery
Before being transported to the recovery room, a girdle is put on, which must be worn for 30 to 45 days. The patient is woken up by the anaesthetist and then transported to the recovery room where they remain for 24 to 48 hours under medical observation until they are discharged.
Preparation for an abdominoplasty
Before surgery
- Carry out all the preoperative tests requested and send them in as early as possible.
- Do not take anti-inflammatories or aspirin in the 10 days before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding. You should inform the medical team of any medication you take or medical condition you suffer from.
- Do not smoke in the month before surgery or after surgery. Smokers have a higher risk of complications, particularly difficulties with healing and tissue vascularisation.
- Carefully read the documentation you were given before the surgery, as there may be some doubts.
- If you become ill or unwell in the days leading up to the surgery, you should inform the medical team immediately.
- If you have young children, organise your routines in advance and you'll need help at home, especially during the first two weeks.
- Do you have any questions about the surgery, pre- or post-operative Abdominoplasty? Don't wait until the last day and ask all your questions in advance.
On the day of surgery
- The day before, you should eat light meals that don't cause indigestion. From midnight on the day before the operation, you should be absolutely fasting (no water).
- Bathe with the disinfectant gel the day before and the day of surgery.
- Do not wear accessories or make-up, varnish or gel nails, as they may interfere with the vital signs measurements.
- Bring comfortable/large clothes to wear when you are discharged.
- You will not be able to go home alone or drive. If you don't have someone to pick you up from the clinic or help you at home during the first few days, you must inform us before the day of the operation. You should always be accompanied for the first 48 hours.
- All social and professional activities should be scheduled to ensure complete rest in the days following surgery.
Recovery and post-operative care
- The recovery period depends on the complexity/combination of procedures, but also varies from person to person. In general, it varies between 2 and 3 weeks.
- You may experience a feeling of tightness in the abdomen, discomfort and moderate pain that is relieved with the prescribed medication.
- Rest mainly during the first week and gradually return to your routine. You shouldn't always lie down or be in the same position and you should take short walks to promote circulation and prevent clots from forming.
- For 4 to 6 weeks you shouldn't make any physical effort, so family help at home is extremely important.
- Eat a balanced, healthy diet and keep well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
- Strictly follow all the instructions given by the medical team regarding taking medication and/or other precautions such as lymphatic drainage and wearing a compression garment.
Benefits abdominal surgery
This is one of the most commonly performed surgeries worldwide, especially by women who have already become mothers or by patients who have lost a lot of weight. The benefits of this surgery go beyond aesthetics, as weakened abdominal muscles are often associated with back pain and posture problems. The results are directly related to well-being and improved self-esteem, as people who have the procedure feel more comfortable wearing more revealing clothes and carrying out activities they didn't feel comfortable with before. For many patients, having this procedure is the first step towards a healthier lifestyle.
Medical Specialists
About
Dr Alice Varanda Pereira / Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 47051, specialist in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and Subspecialist in Aesthetic and Cosmetic Medicine.
Licensed by Lisbon Medical School, It was at this institution that she took her Master's degree in Human Sexuality and is currently working on her PhD.
She has been a member of the faculty's teaching staff since 2008, as Assistant Professor at the Institute of Anatomy. It is in this unit that she produces most of her research projects, essentially in the area of surgical anatomy, and she is also the supervisor of master's theses.
About
Dr Mariana da Rocha Martins/ Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 55124, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
He graduated from Abel Salazar Institute of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Porto and completed his speciality in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery at the University Hospital Centre Lisboa Central - St Joseph's Hospital.
During his specific training in Plastic Surgery, he worked at internationally renowned institutions such as the Kaplan Institute (Barcelona), in La Clinic (Montreux) and Great Ormond Street Hospital (London).
About
Dr Marta Gouveia Duarte/ Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 57817, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Graduated in Medicine from School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, where she completed her Master's thesis in Human Ageing.
He completed his speciality in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery at the Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central - Hospital de São José.
He collaborates in various research projects in NOVA Medical School.
About
Dr Sara Carvalho / Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 60781, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Licensed by Lisbon Medical School. He completed his speciality in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery at the Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central - Hospital de São José.
She has taken various courses in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast and aesthetic surgery of the face.
She is currently a member of the clinical staff of the Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery service at the Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central, where she excels in the areas of Breast Reconstruction, Body Contouring and Post-Bariatric Surgery, Paediatric Plastic Surgery, Trauma and Burn Surgery. She works as a hospital assistant, is a training supervisor and is responsible for Safe Surgery at the institution.
About
Dr Filipa Oliveira/ Plastic Surgery
DOCTORS' ASSOCIATION: registration no. 59147, specialising in Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Graduated in Medicine from Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, where she completed her master's thesis on paediatric scars.
She holds a doctorate in medicine from the University of Münster in Germany.
After completing her speciality, she became a Senior Graduate Assistant (Oberärztin) at the Fachklinik Hornheide and the University of Münster. She is currently collaborating on various research projects at the University of Münster, where she is supervising doctoral students. She is also a regular correspondent for scientific and leisure magazines in Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions about
Abdominoplasty
Is abdominoplasty a safe surgery?
Yes, this is a safe surgery as long as it is carried out in an accredited clinic and by a plastic surgeon with experience in this type of procedure. It is also important to carry out preoperative examinations and to strictly follow pre- and post-operative care.
What is the price of an abdominoplasty at your clinic (Lisbon and Porto)?
Regardless of whether it is carried out in Lisbon, Porto or another geographical area, the price of abdominoplasty varies from patient to patient as it depends on the initial state of the body and whether or not liposuction is required, which can be small, medium or large (depending on the amount of fat to be removed). The exact cost of abdominoplasty / lipoabdominoplasty is confirmed after the medical diagnosis consultation. The price of abdominoplasty includes all medical fees, anaesthesia, follow-up appointments, post-operative medication, nursing care and the compression belt.
Which procedure is best for me: Liposuction or Abdominoplasty?
Liposuction only removes localised fat and is indicated for patients with elastic skin and the ability to retract. If you have sagging skin, excess skin and separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, liposuction will not be enough to achieve a flat, firm abdomen. In this case, an abdominoplasty will be necessary.
Does abdominal surgery eliminate stretch marks?
There are no specific surgical procedures to eliminate stretch marks, however, depending on the location of the stretch marks and the amount of skin to be removed, abdominoplasty can eliminate part or even all of the stretch marks in the lower abdomen and the area just above the navel.
How long should I wait after becoming a mum to have the surgery?
In the case of women who have been mothers, they must wait the necessary time for their bodies to recover. This varies from woman to woman, but is on average between 6 and 12 months. It is also important that you are no longer breastfeeding and that your weight is stable.
Can I be a mum again?
Ideally, this surgery should be carried out when you are not considering having any more children, not because there is any incompatibility with another pregnancy, but so as not to jeopardise the results achieved. If you want to be a mum again, it's advisable to wait.
Are the results of the surgery permanent?
Abdominoplasty does not guarantee results for life, as the body is not immune to changes resulting from the natural ageing process, weight fluctuations and future pregnancies. For long-lasting results, it's important to follow a healthy lifestyle - eating a balanced diet and taking regular exercise.
Will the scars disappear?
Scars are permanent regardless of the surgery performed, but over time they become thinner and lighter in colour. The final appearance of the scars varies and depends on each person's genetic characteristics and post-operative care. The final result is expected after 12/18.
Will I need drains?
The use of drains is extremely important as they help to eliminate the fluids that accumulate after surgery and minimise the risk of complications. They are placed whenever necessary and are usually removed after 48 hours.
How painful is the recovery?
Recovery from an abdominoplasty can take between 2 and 3 weeks. In the first few days, it's normal to feel tired, uncomfortable and moderately sore. It's important to follow all the doctor's recommendations to the letter, respect the rest period and take the prescribed medication to relieve the pain and have a more peaceful recovery.
When can I resume physical activity?
You shouldn't carry out any physical activity or exertion for 30 to 45 days, but you can resume activities gradually. All the precautions taken during the recovery period must be adhered to because, as well as contributing to a speedy recovery, they also help to achieve better results.
Are the results visible immediately after surgery?
The result of a tummy tuck is visible immediately after surgery. However, swelling will distort the result for some time. After three months you can get a very real idea of the result, but the final result is usually visible after 6 to 12 months.
What are the risks and complications of abdominoplasty?
Like any other surgery, this is not without its risks and complications (e.g. reaction to anaesthesia, haematoma, changes in skin sensitivity, etc). Possible risks and complications will be explained in detail during your medical consultation.
What options are available to minimise the appearance of scars after this surgery?
There are options and techniques that can be used to minimise the visibility of scars resulting from abdominoplasty. This can include post-operative care, skin care products and laser treatments that help improve the appearance of scars.
How long does it take for sensitivity in the abdominal area to be restored after abdominoplasty?
Many patients have doubts about the temporary loss of sensation in the abdominal area after surgery. It is possible for patients to temporarily lose some sensitivity in the treated area, but in general this sensitivity is restored. As this is a process that varies from patient to patient, it is not possible to indicate a precise period of time.
What's the difference between a full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck?
The differences between a full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck are related to the areas treated, the extent of the scars and the expected results. In consultation with your doctor, you'll understand which procedure is best for you, taking into account your condition, needs and goals.
What are the less common risks and complications associated with abdominal surgery?
Although uncommon, there are less common risks and complications that can be associated with abdominoplasty, such as deep vein thrombosis, seroma or scar irregularities.
What do tummy tuck scars look like?
The scars are around the navel and lower belly (below the underwear line) and vary in size according to the amount of skin to be removed.
When will I be able to return to work?
Generally, abdominoplasty patients can return to work 2-3 weeks after surgery. It depends on the type of professional activity, the associated physical effort and the progress of their recovery.
Can abdominoplasty help me lose weight?
This surgery is not a weight loss procedure and cannot be performed on overweight people. By removing excess skin and localised fat from the abdomen, it is a procedure that improves the patient's body contour, but will not result in significant weight loss.
Are there any financing options or payment plans available to pay for a tummy tuck?
Having financing options to help patients manage the cost of surgery is often a crucial factor when choosing a plastic surgeon and the clinic where abdominoplasty is performed. At LMR, we have payment facilities to make it easier to pay for tummy tuck surgery. Patients should be aware of the payment policies and requirements associated with these options at their initial consultation so that they can make informed decisions about financing their surgery. For more information on payment facilities, please contact us using the contact form or by email - geral@lmrcirurgiaplastica.pt.
Can I have an abdominoplasty if I have abdominal diastasis?
Diastasis, or separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, is a condition that affects many women, especially after pregnancy. The existence of this separation predisposes to the development of other problems such as abdominal wall hernias, back pain or incontinence, as well as giving the abdomen a distended appearance. Whenever indicated, diastasis is corrected during abdominoplasty. The procedure involves tightening the abdominal muscles, restoring firmness and definition to the area.
What is a "flabby abdomen" and how can abdominoplasty correct it?
A “flabby abdomen” is characterised by loss of muscle tone and sagging skin in the abdominal region. Abdominoplasty can remove excess skin, restore the abdominal muscles and leave the abdomen firmer and with a more toned appearance.
Can this surgery improve the appearance of the navel?
Yes, it can improve the appearance of the navel, especially if it is sagging or distorted after weight loss or pregnancy. If an umbilical hernia is present, it can also be corrected in the same procedure. The surgeon can adjust the shape or positioning of the navel during surgery to ensure a more aesthetic appearance.
