Tummy tuck – abdominoplasty
Many people strive for a timeless, well-formed body. With increasing age, however, the skin sags not only on the face but also on the rest of the body. Wrinkles and excess skin form, particularly on the stomach, upper arms and thighs, which cannot be reduced by diet or exercise. Women with weak connective tissue, after pregnancy or weight loss are particularly affected.
In these cases, surgical removal of the excess tissue is often the only corrective option. If fat deposits are present in addition to the excess skin, liposuction can be combined with liposuction for an optimal aesthetic result. The operations improve the contour and harmony of the body. However, it cannot replace weight reduction for overweight people.
Frequently asked questions:
- When is the best time for a tummy tuck?
- How does a tummy tuck work?
- What can I expect after the operation?
- Further questions about a tummy tuck?
- What do I need to consider before and after the operation?
When is the best time for a tummy tuck?
We achieve the best aesthetic and longest-lasting results when the patient has reached their desired weight at the time of surgery. If a lot of weight is lost after the operation, the skin begins to sag again. Patients who want to lose weight anyway are advised to get as close as possible to their target weight before the operation and to maintain this weight after the operation.
How does a tummy tuck work?
First, we conduct a detailed personal consultation in which we analyze the findings and explain all treatment options and risks. Only when we know your wishes and the initial findings can we choose the appropriate correction procedure and determine whether simultaneous liposuction is recommended.
During a tummy tuck, the entire tissue between the pubic mound and the navel is removed under general anesthesia. The scar is positioned so that it is covered by the underwear or bikini bottoms. We perform an additional internal tightening if the abdominal muscles are widely separated. In all cases, one or more wound drains are inserted to prevent blood or tissue fluid from accumulating in the wound. At the end of the operation, a specially measured compression garment is put on. This can optimize wound healing and scarring.
What can I expect after the operation?
Depending on the extent of the correction, treatment can be carried out on an outpatient or inpatient basis. In most cases, only minor pain occurs, which can be easily treated with mild painkillers. The compression garment is worn day and night for 6 weeks. No sport should be practiced for the first 2-3 weeks in order not to jeopardize optimal wound healing and scar formation. The skin threads are removed after 2-3 weeks. The wounds are usually completely healed by this time. Special scar creams for aftercare can be used as required. After 6 months, the scars have faded and are often almost invisible.
Do you have questions about a tummy tuck?
If you have any further questions, please arrange a personal consultation at our practice in Cham.
Brief information
OP duration: | 1 to 2 hours |
Stay: | Inpatient 1 to 2 nights |
Stitching: | 14 to 20 days |
Socially acceptable: | 2 to 3 days |
Downtime: | 1 to 2 weeks 4 to 6 weeks for heavy work |
Sport: | 6 weeks no sport |
Dr. med. Dorrit Winterholer
Specialist in plastic, aesthetic and reconstructive facial and breast surgery.
- Over 20 years of experience as a surgeon.
- Over 12 years of experience as a specialist in plastic and aesthetic medicine.
- Head of Plastic Surgery Lucerne since 2021.
Get in touch with us!
Make a no-obligation appointment to find out how Dr. Winterholer can help you.