Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

About the Surgery:

One of the most important operations in cosmetic surgery and requested frequently by Doctor Tarek Copty. This operation usually results in high satisfaction when done right, therefore it requires accuracy, skill and surgeon experience. This procedure helps tighten and reshape the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat while also tightening the abdominal muscles. This surgery is suitable for individuals who suffer from loose skin, excess fat, and muscle laxity in the abdominal area due to multiple pregnancies or significant weight loss.

For post-pregnancy cases, a tummy tuck is often combined with a breast lift to restore body contouring. However, women should wait at least 4 to 6 months after giving birth before undergoing the procedure, allowing the body and uterus to return to their natural state.

Similarly, individuals who have undergone weight loss procedures such as gastric sleeve surgery or strict dieting should wait until they reach a relatively stable weight before considering a tummy tuck. In many of these cases, there is abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti), making alternative treatments ineffective. A tummy tuck is the only procedure that repairs and tightens weakened abdominal muscles effectively.

There are several types of tummy tucks, depending on the degree of skin laxity, the presence of excess fat, and the overall body shape of the patient:

1. Mini Tummy Tuck: This procedure tightens the skin and muscles below the navel using a small incision along the bikini line. It is ideal for patients who are close to their ideal weight but need minor abdominal contouring.

2. Full (Traditional) Tummy Tuck: This involves removing excess skin and fat both above and below the navel. The incision extends between the hip bones along the bikini line, along with a small, hidden incision around the belly button.

3. Extended Tummy Tuck: Similar to the traditional tummy tuck, but with a longer incision that extends to the flanks (love handles) to remove excess skin and fat in that area.

4. Circumferential Tummy Tuck: A more extensive procedure that goes beyond an extended tummy tuck, often combined with 360-degree liposuction to achieve a comprehensive body contouring result.

The amount of skin to be removed is carefully marked before surgery. The procedure is performed under general or regional anesthesia. In most cases, dissolvable stitches are used, eliminating the need for suture removal. The incision is strategically placed in hidden areas for a more aesthetic outcome.

To speed up recovery, fluid drainage tubes are inserted for 3-4 days.

Regardless of the technique used, the final result is a flatter stomach, a more defined waistline, and in some cases, an athletic-looking abdomen upon request.