ABDOMINOPLASTY

The purpose of abdominoplasty is to improve the aspect of the abdomen and let the patient have her body contour back, after being distended by obesity or pregnancy. The result is achieved through the removal of excessive skin and fat tissue from the lower part of the abdomen. As well as giving tonicity to the stretched skin, this type of surgery strengthens the muscles of the area and causes a flattening of the lower abdomen. The patient must be aware, however, that the aim of abdominoplasty is not to attain perfection, but to diminish the problem. As smaller the quantity of excessive skin to be removed is, as more satisfactory the final results will be.

PREOPERATIVE PREPARATION

Medications based on acetylsalicylic acid, such as aspirin, diet medications or diuretics must not be taken during the ten days prior to the surgery. The patient must inform the doctor about any health related disturbances, such as a flu or a cold. The abdomen must be carefully washed with antiseptic soap during the three days that precede the surgery. The day before the patient must have a light intestinal washing and must shave the pubic hair. The patient is also advised to eat moderately and not drink any liquor.

SURGICAL PROCEDURE

The general and the epidural are the most common types of anesthesia used in this procedure. A horizontal incision is performed right above the pubic hair, from where an elliptical cut begins, whose greater width goes up to the navel, the navel is the transplanted and, if necessary, modified. After the incision, the flaccid tissue that covers the abdominal muscle is pulled toward the center. This procedure strengthens the musculature, provides firmness to the abdominal wall and thins down the waist. The excessive skin is then removed and, before suturing the navel is reinstalled in its original place.

POSTOPERATIVE CARE

The post operative period of abdominoplasty is normally painless and the patient remains hospitalized for 24 hours. The patient must get out of bed on the day that follows the surgery, and alternate periods when she/he is sitting and lying down. The patient is advised to walk with her/his torso slightly to the front while taking small steps and avoiding long flights of stairs. The patient must wear an abdominal girdle for thirty days. When the first month is over the micropore dressing is removed. A lotion indicated by the doctor, is put on the scar location. Natural swelling and a possible lack of sensitiveness are common and disappear in time. The final result can be verified after 12 to 18 months of the surgery.

"The Regional Medicine Council doesn´t allow the exhibition of pre and postoperatory images".