Abdominoplasty: what the procedure involves and what patients can expect after undergoing it

Written in association with: Ms Anna De Leo
Published: | Updated: 12/09/2023
Edited by: Conor Lynch

An abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is commonly used to flatten the abdominal area by removing excess fat and skin around the abdomen.

 

We recently spoke with highly experienced and skilled plastic reconstructive and aesthetic consultant surgeon, Ms Anna De Leo, to quiz her on what exactly an abdominoplasty procedure entails and what patients can expect following surgery.

What exactly does an abdominoplasty procedure involve?

An abdominoplasty is a procedure performed to tighten abdominal skin and muscle. Liposuction can occasionally help with the final sculpting.

 

During the procedure, all skin below the belly button is removed and the upper abdomen is used to cover the lower part of the skin. It is a surgery that involves many safety checks beforehand, as doctors must assess the heart and liver function of the patient. 

 

Weight should be in the range of a healthy classification and breathing exercises should be carried out, as this will help to prevent clotting following surgery.

 

Why do people get this procedure done?

Apart from aesthetic reasons, having an abdominoplasty also helps to breath well, and helps and improves bowel and bladder function. In simple terms, an abdominoplasty is a life changing procedure that patients request with the hope of feeling better, both mentally and physically. 

 

What should patients expect after the operation?

Nausea and weakness are commonly reported symptoms following an abdominoplasty operation.

 

How long is the recovery period?

The surgical wound usually fully heals after three weeks.

 

What should patients do before and after surgery?

Eating plenty of fibre and protein before and after surgery is highly recommended. Patients should also wash and shave their body in order to help prevent infections. Wearing compression garments is also highly advised and we also sometimes suggest lymphatic massages.

 

Ms Anna De Leo is an esteemed London-based plastic reconstructive and aesthetic consultant surgeon. If you are considering undergoing an abdominoplasty, make sure you check out Ms De Leo’s Top Doctors profile to book a consultation with her.

By Ms Anna De Leo
Plastic surgery

Ms Anna De Leo is a highly esteemed plastic reconstructive aesthetic consultant surgeon, based at The London Welbeck Hospital, London. The specialist surgeon is a particular expert in microsurgical procedures and reconstructive treatments such as breast cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, breast augmentation, mummy makeover, abdominal surgeriesface lift, neck lift, as well as liposuction. Ms De Leo, who currently works privately, conducts reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgery whilst also mentoring junior surgeons. 

From cosmetic to reconstructive surgery, Ms De Leo has, thus far, obtained a vast amount of experience in performing highly delicate surgical procedures. She is dedicated to improving, correcting and refunctionalising various body parts. The renowned plastic surgeon consultant has built up her extensive medical experience at highly prestigious hospitals across the globe, including the Chelsea and Westminister Hospital, the Royal Free Hospital London, as well as the Helsinki University Hospital in Finland. 

Impressively, Ms De Leo has previously been nominated in the Worldwide Association Of Female Professionals, is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and is the current lead of the European Hand Injuries Prevention campaigns with the British Society for Surgery of the Hand. Ms De Leo also specialises in appearance longevity, and provides longevity packages to patients. 

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