Abdominoplasty / Tummy tuck

The incision lies in the crease of the lower abdomen concealed below underwear. The length of the scar is determined by the amount of skin and fat to be excised. The umbilicus (belly button) is repositioned once the excess abdominal skin is removed.

This procedure is most commonly performed on patients who have either lost weight, or following pregnancy, once their family is complete.

An abdominoplasty should not be performed on someone who intends to have more children.

Length of procedure

Two to three hours.

Anesthesia

The procedure is most commonly performed under spinal anesthesia supplemented with intravenous sedation. This ensures excellent analgesia for the first 24 hours post operatively. This procedure can also be performed under general anaesthesia, augmented with local anaesthetic.

Inpatient/Outpatient

You would be required to stay in hospital at the Cape Town Medi-Clinic, usually for one or two nights. This is to optimize patient safety (including overnight calf compressions) and comfort.

MODIFIED PROCEDURES (these are not a substitute for a standard abdominoplasty)

Mini-abdominoplasty

The procedure specifically targets minor degrees of skin laxity in the lower abdomen only, below the level of the umbilicus. The incision is usually slightly longer than a caesarean scar. The skin is lifted up to the level of the umbilicus and the excess trimmed. The umbilicus is not moved. The abdominal wall is tightened below the level of the umbilicus to correct bulging in this area.

Liposuction can be performed to further contour the abdomen.

Apronectomy / Panniculectomy

This is a procedure that removes an overhanging fold of skin and fat in the lower abdomen. There is no undermining / lifting of skin from the abdominal wall.