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Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty in the Toronto Area)

Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is a plastic surgery procedure performed at the Institute of Cosmetic & Laser Surgery near Toronto that involves removing excess skin and fat from the middle and/or lower abdomen. This plastic surgery procedure is done to decrease the size and flatten the appearance of the abdomen, as well as repair and renew the abdominal muscle wall. Reasons for needing a tummy tuck include multiple pregnancies in women, excess weight loss, multiple past abdominal surgeries that have left the abdomen weakened, and fat deposits or loose abdominal skin that will not respond to regular diet and exercise.

During your consultation with Dr. Khanna at our Oakville office near Toronto, Ontario, she will discuss with you the goals and limitations of the plastic surgery, as well as the risks associated with it. Although abdominoplasty can enhance your appearance and increase your confidence and self-esteem, it is important to be realistic about the outcome of your surgery as it relates to your specific needs and body type.

There are two types of tummy tuck procedures offered at our Oakville office, near Toronto. The first is a full or complete abdominoplasty, which addresses problems regarding the whole of the abdominal area. This plastic surgery procedure ranges in length from two to five hours depending on the extent of the repair. The second procedure is a partial abdominoplasty or mini-tummy tuck, which deals primarily with fat deposits and skin that are limited to the area below the navel. This procedure can take one to two hours, again depending on the extent of the repair. In both cases liposuction may be performed in conjunction with the abdominoplasty to achieve an optimum body-contouring outcome.

Whether it is a full or partial abdominoplasty, the surgery involves an incision than can extend from hip to hip and is located as low as possible but above suprapubic or pubic hairline. A second incision is made around the navel (belly button) and the skin is then loosened and freed from the abdominal wall. The abdominal muscles are pulled together and stitched into the new position to provide a firmer abdominal wall, which in turn flattens the appearance of the abdomen and makes the waistline narrower. The skin is then pulled down and the excess is removed. A new hole is cut for the navel and stitched into place. The remaining skin is then stitched back together.

When the surgery is complete, one or two drains may be stitched into position along the main incision. This allows for drainage of excess fluid from the surgical site and will help with healing. Generally, the drains are removed two to three days post surgery. A special tight-fitting garment is worn for the first six weeks after surgery. It gives compression and support to the healing abdominal area and should be worn 24 hours per day, except during showering which is allowed after the drains are removed. Wound dressing will be provided to you following surgery along with care instructions that you need to abide by. Dr. Khanna will also recommend that someone stay with you for the first two to three days to aid in self-care and daily activities.

For the first few days following a tummy tuck at our practice near Toronto, Dr. Khanna may prescribe medication to help you control the swelling and pain, which is normal after surgery. Average healing time is four to six weeks, however, some people heal faster or slower than others. Previous exercise regimens may be resumed slowly after approximately four to six weeks; however, abdominal exercises should be avoided for up to three months. It may be quite some time before you feel back to your old self. It is important that you walk around as soon as possible after your surgery to encourage circulation and prevent post surgical complications such as blood clots or pneumonia. These are risks associated with any surgery; however, following your post operative instructions carefully will help aid in your healing process going smoothly.

To find out if you qualify for a tummy tuck, schedule a consultation with Dr. Khanna at our Oakville office, between Toronto and Hamilton in Ontario. She will discuss the risks and benefits of plastic surgery with you to help you make an informed decision.