Abdominoplasty is a complex body contouring surgical intervention, designed for:

• Removing excess skin
• Eliminating surplus fatty tissue from the lower and middle abdominal area
• Restoring and toning the abdominal muscle wall, diastasis

When is abdominoplasty recommended?

Abdominoplasty is indicated for both women and men who are in good general health and present:

• Excess skin and abdominal laxity
• Diastasis of the rectus abdominal muscles
• Persistent fat deposits resistant to diet and physical exercise
• Post-pregnancy changes or changes after massive weight loss

Patients who are planning significant weight loss should postpone the intervention until their weight has stabilized.

Also, women who wish to have a future pregnancy should undergo the surgery after completing their reproductive plans.

Initial consultation

During the initial consultation, the Swan Clinic plastic surgeon will evaluate the general health condition and analyze fat distribution and skin quality.

The presence of diastasis will also be identified.

Blood tests and additional investigations may be recommended for the safety of the intervention.

Types of procedures

Depending on the particularities of each case, the following types of procedures may be chosen:

1. Complete abdominoplasty

Complete abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the entire abdominal area, corrects muscle diastasis, and repositions the navel.

2. Mini-abdominoplasty

Mini-abdominoplasty, or partial abdominoplasty, corrects excess skin located below the navel and tones only the lower abdominal muscles.

In this case, navel repositioning is usually not required.

3. Association with liposuction

Abdominoplasty may be associated with liposuction for optimal body contouring.

Before the procedure

Smoking must be stopped at least 2 to 4 weeks before and after the intervention, because it affects healing.

Sun exposure and restrictive diets should be avoided before surgery.

How the procedure is performed

The incision is placed in the lower abdomen, in the suprapubic area, so that the scar can be hidden by underwear or a swimsuit.

During the intervention, the skin is lifted, the muscles are sutured on the midline to create a firm abdominal wall, and the excess tissue is removed.

The surgery is performed in an authorized medical unit and usually requires 1 to 2 days of hospitalization for postoperative monitoring.

Possible risks

As with any major surgical intervention, abdominoplasty involves risks, such as:

• Seroma, fluid accumulation
• Hematoma
• Infection
• Delayed healing
• Asymmetry
• Temporary or permanent sensitivity changes
• Thrombosis or embolism, rarely

The risks are reduced through careful evaluation and by following medical instructions.

Recovery

In the first few days, swelling and abdominal discomfort may appear, along with a feeling of tension and/or temporary difficulty maintaining an upright position.

The prescribed medication effectively controls pain.

It is recommended to wear a compression garment for 4 to 6 weeks.

Professional activity can be resumed within 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the type of work.

Intense physical effort should be avoided for approximately 6 to 8 weeks.

Scars heal progressively and improve their appearance over 6 to 12 months.

Results

The result is a flatter, firmer abdomen and a better-contoured waist.

The effects are long-lasting, provided that a stable weight and a balanced lifestyle are maintained.

Consultation at Swan Clinic

During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will provide you with all the necessary information to determine whether abdominoplasty is the right solution for your aesthetic and functional goals.

We look forward to welcoming you at Swan Clinic!