Dr Chris Snijman Plastic Surgeon
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Improve the contour of the abdomen

Tummy Tuck / Abdominoplasty

    A tummy tuck is a procedure designed to improve the contour of the abdomen by the removal of excess skin and fat and the tightening of the abdominal wall musculature.

    The Tummy Tuck is a popular procedure amongst ladies following pregnancy and childbirth, as well as men and woman who have lost a lot of weight.

    Simulation of Body Procedures

    • Abdominoplasty / Tummy tuck
    • Liposuction / Liposculpture
    • Body contouring
    • Buttocks 

    (Only available with 3D sensor)

    GENERAL GUIDELINES

    What the surgery entails:

    • 5A lower abdominal incision just above the pubic mound of variable length, depending on how much skin laxity there is
    • 5A full tummy tuck has an incision from one hip bone to the other and a second incision around the umbilicus
    • 5The skin and fat of the lower abdomen is then released and pulled downwards towards the pubic mound, and the excess is then removed
    • 5The underlying muscles are then brought closer together and repaired surgically
    • 5Surgical drains are then inserted
    • 5The incisions are then closed in layers with absorbable sutures
    • 5Liposuction if required, is then performed to complete the process

    PREPARATION FOR RECOVERY

    Due to the nature of the tummy tuck surgery and the amount of tissue removed, you will have difficulty in moving around your home.

    • 5Warn friends and family of your intentions
    • 5Prepare your children
    • 5Arrange lifts and aftercare for the children
    • 5Have ready made meals, easy to heat meals prepared
    • 5Have lots of pillows on your bed
    • 5Have a nightstand prepared for easy access to your medications and fluid requirements
    • 5Have your cell phone charger nearby
    • 5Select your reading material before the surgery
    • 5Have easy access to remote control devices
    • 5Ensure you have a designated driver in case of emergencies and for your post operative visits

    The Recovery Phase

    • One night in hospital
    • More discomfort and tightness, rather than pain
    • You will be tired and lethargic for the first week
    • Daily management of the surgical drains
    • Walking as soon as possible
    • Wound inspection and dressing change on Day 5
    • Drain removal usually on day 7, but this may take longer
    • Taping and scar management for 8 weeks
    • Support garment/ corset for 6 weeks
    • Driving after 1 week
    • Return to normal activities of daily living by 2 weeks
    • Return to exercise by 4-6 weeks

    Remote Consultations

    We are now offering secure and confidential 3D remote consultations.

    Post Operative Complications & Sequelae

    • Adverse reactions to the anaesthesia
    • Discomfort rather than pain
    • Bleeding or seroma (an accumulation of blood or fluid under the skin that may require drainage)
    • Wound infection and breakdown
    • Suture abscesses
    • Abnormal scarring and wound healing
    • Decreased sensation to the skin below the umbilicus (recovers by 6 weeks)
    • Asymmetry
    • Unsatisfactory result/ dissatisfied patient
    * Results may vary from patient to patient. Please refer to my Disclaimer for more information.

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