Dr Tadeusz Witwicki on abdominoplasty:
Before the surgery:
Before undergoing a tummy tuck / abdominoplasty, a consultation with a specialist is necessary, during which the patient is informed about the required incisions and the expected outcome. The doctor assesses whether there are any hernias within the abdominal wall. After surgery, usually only a horizontal scar remains in the suprapubic area, and there is always a scar around the navel. Occasionally a vertical scar is also necessary.
Before the tummy tuck / abdominoplasty procedure itself, a series of tests must be performed.
Please remember about an ECG (for patients over 40 years of age).
The patient also consults with an anaesthesiologist to agree on the details of anaesthesia and increase its safety.
General nutritional recommendations before the procedure:
To better prepare for the procedure, it is also worth following nutritional recommendations. The diet before the procedure must not be restrictive, as protein deficiency impairs the healing of postoperative wounds. However, some modifications are advisable. The diet should be easily digestible, and fatty and gas-forming foods should be eliminated. Smoking and drinking alcohol should be avoided. Pay attention to supplements that may cause excessive bleeding, e.g. vitamin E preparations, ginkofar, and medications containing acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin and its derivatives). Chili, cayenne, garlic, ginger, saffron, onion, celery and horseradish can also increase the risk of bleeding.
Type of anesthesia:
General anesthesia.
Duration of the surgery:
2–3 hours.
Course of the surgery:
During a tummy tuck / abdominoplasty, an incision is made in the suprapubic area and around the navel, the skin-fat flap is separated from the fascia, the fascia is doubled if necessary, and excess skin and adipose tissue is removed from the lower abdomen. Bleeding control is applied. Subcutaneous sutures are placed and layered closure is used. The operation may be preceded by liposuction of the abdominal wall.
Example surgical result (before/after — more photos in the gallery):
Postoperative recommendations:
During the first week, slow mobilisation and transitioning from a bent to an upright position is recommended. Wearing an elastic abdominal binder is recommended to accelerate healing and reduce the risk of fluid accumulation under the elevated skin-fat flap. Anti-thrombotic treatment should be applied for the first 7–10 days. Return to work is usually possible after 2 weeks. The patient must stay at the clinic for 2 days immediately after surgery. Carboxytherapy on the scars is indicated to improve healing. Use of scar ointments is also recommended.
Recovery time:
The final result is visible after approx. 4–6 months.
General post-procedure nutritional recommendations from a dietitian:
Diet after surgery is extremely important, and its proper balance ensures the supply of nutrients necessary for correct wound healing. Meals should be prepared to be easily digestible, with nutrients that are well absorbed. The daily menu must include products that are a source of high-quality protein. Zinc, iron and vitamins also play an important role in the recovery process and adequate intake in the diet should be ensured. Consuming fibre-rich products prevents constipation, which may occur after surgery. Products such as chocolate, tea, coffee, sweets and flour-based dishes should also be avoided as they slow intestinal motility.
