Abdominoplasty is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure that reshapes the abdomen by removing excess fat, loose skin and stretch marks while tightening lax and stretched abdominal muscles. It is suitable for both men and women. Dr Safvat often combines abdominoplasty with liposuction of the abdomen and flanks to achieve the best results.
Abdominoplasty works best in men who have lost weight and are close to their ideal body weight, but still have a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that will not respond to diet or exercise. An abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss.
Technique
The procedure is done under a general anaesthetic in an accredited hospital. Dr Safvat only works with highly trained anaesthetics accredited with the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists. It usually takes about 2-4 hours, and the patient is required to stay in hospital from 2-5 days. Drainage tubes are usually placed under the skin to help prevent any fluid build-up. The procedure ranges from a mini to a full abdominoplasty dependent on individual requirements.
A full tummy tuck operation is designed to reshape the entire span of the abdomen. It works for people with significant amount of loose skin, subcutaneous fat and stretch mark. It also tightens the abdominal musculature to flatten the contour, reduce any bulges and give an “hour-glass” appearance to the waists. The belly button is also reshaped and placed in a more desirable location. The scar in a full tummy tuck could be quite extensive and is from hip to hip in the lower abdomen. Dr Safvat often combines this procedure with liposuction of the upper abdomen and flanks to yield optimal results.
A Mini Tummy Tuck is a lighter procedure and suits people with smaller amount of fat and excess skin in the lower abdomen only. The incision for a Mini Tummy Tuck is smaller and is located just above the pubic area.
Recovery
Immediately post-operatively and for six weeks afterwards, patients need to wear a medical garment (abdominal binder). While patients may not be able to stand fully upright just after their surgery, they are actively encouraged to walk for short periods and to do deep breathing exercises soon post-operatively to prevent complications. Exertion and heavy lifting are not allowed for 4-6 weeks. Dr. Safvat advises his patients to take about a month off work to rest at home to optimise the healing process.
Cost
Abdominoplasty has an Item number and patients will get a rebate from Medicare and their health fund. The hospital costs are covered by private health funds depending on the patients’ level and type of cover. At your first consultation Dr Safvat and his Team will discuss costs associated with abdominoplasty. It is advisable to bring a referral as you will need that to be eligible for rebates from Medicare and your health fund.
Abdominoplasty for Men Complications
Any surgical procedure can be associated with some general risks and Complications. Having your procedure done in an accredited hospital minimises these risks. Although uncommon, these include, collection of blood (heamatoma) or other fluids (seroma), mild to severe infection, clots (DVT), and risks associated with general anaesthetics. There may be problems with wound healing and scarring.
What you need to do before the operation
Smoking and being overweight have been shown to cause more complications after abdominoplasty. Dr Safvat will insist that patients stop smoking at least 3 weeks before their surgery and lose weight as much as able to before their operation.