Abdominoplasty

Dr Drielsma makes an incision across the lower abdomen, extending out to the hips. He then elevates skin and fat up to the rib cage. He removes excess skin and fat before stretching down the upper abdominal skin to the lower abdomen. Dr Drielsma makes a new opening for the navel.

Abdominoplasty surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and takes approximately three hours. A device called a pain buster helps minimise discomfort along the abdominal wound line during the hospital stay. Abdominoplasty usually requires two nights/days stay in the hospital.

After the surgery, you will wear a garment to provide support to the abdomen. We order and fit this prior to the operation. You will wear this for 6 weeks following surgery. We encourage early mobilisation with walking etc. Stitches are all absorbable.

Usually Abdominoplasty requires 2 to 3 weeks off work although some people require a longer recovery period. You can commence gentle exercises after 3-4 weeks, however, avoid vigorous exercise for 6-8 weeks. It may take 2-3 months before returning to completely normal activity.

As with any surgical procedure, there is a small risk of complications. Surgery and anesthesia are very safe and it is most unlikely you will experience any difficulty. However, there are areas of potential problems you need to understand before proceeding with your surgery. You can reduce your risk of complications by closely following instructions before and after surgery.

Bleeding

Bleeding can be problematical in about 2% of cases. It’s possible in cases of bleeding that return to the operating theatre will be necessary and may require a blood transfusion.

Infection

If infection occurs it will usually become evident within one week of surgery and may delay the healing process or result in the development of scar tissue. This may require treatment with antibiotics. In the unlikely event of infection, this may adversely affect the ultimate result of the surgery.

Anesthesia

The surgery is done under a general anesthetic. Your anesthetist will discuss the possible discomforts following anesthesia. Modern anesthesia is very safe and risks very rare. Your anesthetist will answer any questions you have regarding your anesthetic at the time of surgery.

Scarring

All surgery carries risks and every incision leaves a scar. Scars do however fade remarkably well over a one to two year period and become much less noticeable. The scar of abdominoplasty is never invisible but Dr Drielsma places it in a position that is inconspicuous when wearing most clothing or swimming costumes.

The scars will often look red and lumpy at about three months after surgery as they heal but this is normal and will settle over the following 3-6 months. It takes 12-18 months before the scars mature completely, flatten out and lighten in colour.

Sensation

Areas of your lower abdomen may be numb for up to six months as bruised nerves are recovering. Some minor residual permanent alteration in sensation may occur.

Fluid Collection

A seroma is a collection of fluid under the skin and fat. If this occurs it may take a few weeks to absorb. Wearing the pressure garment will help reduce this risk.

Circulation

Although rare, there is a risk of clotting in the veins of the legs. Pulmonary embolism (a clot going to the lung may rarely complicate such a thrombosis. The risk of this is about one in 500 and the contraceptive pill increases this risk. All possible precautions are taken to minimize the risks of thrombosis including the use of leg compression devices during surgery, use of TED stockings and blood thinning injections while in hospital.

There can be no absolute guarantee with any surgery. In the hands of an experienced surgeon, a secondary operation to correct a minor irregularity may be needed. Should there be any questions regarding abdominoplasty, be sure they are answered in advance by Dr. Drielsma Well meaning friends are not a good source of information. Find out everything before the operation – a well-informed patient is a happy one.

The best candidates for cosmetic surgery are those who want to enhance or improve their appearance, not those who seek perfection. You will be satisfied with the results of surgery if you have realistic expectations. It is important that you make the decision to proceed with surgery for yourself, not anyone else.