If you find yourself concerned about sagging skin or fat around your belly area that can’t be eliminated no matter how much you exercise or diet, a tummy tuck may be a procedure worth considering. A tummy tuck is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes the abdominal area, from your lower abdomen to the area below your chest. It flattens your stomach and makes the overall look smooth, firm and toned. It can also remove excess skin, and tighten your separated or divergent muscles. Although a tummy tuck is not considered a weight loss procedure, it can improve the contours of your abdomen where diet and exercise have failed. If you have any of the following traits, you may be an excellent candidate for a tummy tuck:
- Loose skin in the abdominal area, possibly from pregnancy or weight loss
- Weak abdominal muscles, from pregnancy or other injuries
- Belly fat that persists despite efforts to exercise and eat healthy
- Extra skin in the stomach area prevents your belly from appearing flat
- Any tummy that does not have a flat and toned appearance that you want to improve
Although liposuction is a procedure that removes excess fat from any area of the body, a tummy tuck specifically focuses on the abdominal area, including the skin and muscles. An experienced plastic surgeon will perform the tummy tuck procedure and provide you with results for your body that diet, exercise and weight loss alone cannot do.
Abdominoplasty in a nutshell
Operation type | Abdominoplasty – a procedure with the aim of losing weight |
define it | A minimally invasive surgical procedure targeting the abdominal area to get rid of excess skin and stubborn fat |
stages of the process | Liposuction skin relief Abdominal muscle repair Skin remodeling |
Operation types | Full tummy tuck Extended tummy tuck Limited tummy tuck Mini tummy tuck Laparoscopic tummy tuck |
duration of the procedure | 2 to 3 hours |
Results | Immediate results immediately after the operation and stabilize after recovery by the second week |
the benefits | Improving the appearance of texture and abdomen in particular Abdominal hernia treatment Prevent future accumulation of belly fat Improve incontinence Back pain relief Supporting the ability to exercise |
Disadvantages and risks | infection Unhealed scarst issue loss Feeling changed |
the cost | In the world: an average of about $9,000In Turkey: the average cost is $3,000 |
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Types of tummy tuck
If you are considering a tummy tuck, you may be attracted to the idea of a mini tummy tuck. Patients who qualify for a tummy tuck frequently inquire about a mini tummy tuck because of the shorter recovery time and the possibility of a smaller incision scar. However, many patients cannot achieve their goals of improving torso stability and girth with a mini-abdominoplasty. For most patients, a full tummy tuck is a more effective way to achieve the look they want.
Patients with excess skin and fat and stretched abdominal muscles may qualify for a full abdominoplasty. In patients with a small cyst of excess skin located below the belly button, a modified tuck or mini tuck may be viable options.
Full tummy tuck
A full abdominoplasty is often referred to as a traditional abdominoplasty when it is combined with abdominal liposuction. This is the most commonly used laparotomy selective procedure. For many patients, a tummy tuck is the gold standard for body transformation. If you have loose skin, stretched muscles, or excessive belly fat, a full tummy tuck may be the best option if you desire a flat, firm stomach.
Having a full abdominoplasty can reduce 2 to 4 inches from the patient’s circumference. An incision is made that usually runs between the thigh bones, known as a full bikini line incision. The surgeon removes all the fat and excess skin from the lower abdomen, and may also perform liposuction in the upper abdomen. Finally, the abdominal muscles are strengthened and repaired if they have problems with divergence or separation.
Mini tummy tuck
Patients who are best suited for mini abdominoplasty usually have skin on the upper abdomen and muscle problem. Problem areas are limited to the lower abdomen and may include a small amount of loose skin and central excess fat below the belly button.
A mini abdominoplasty is performed through a smaller four to eight inch incision along the bikini line. A small amount of excess skin may be removed through an incision, and the surgeon can target small pockets of fat using liposuction. In some cases, the lower abdominal muscles may be tightened. Ultimately, a small percentage of tummy tuck candidates find that a mini tummy tuck is the right option to achieve the desired results.
Limited tummy tuck
A limited abdominoplasty, also known as a mid or moderate abdominoplasty, is similar to a mini tummy tuck but includes a slightly longer incision. Patients who normally qualify for this surgery often have good tone in the upper abdomen, but a greater degree of loose skin in the lower abdomen.
Extended tummy tuck
An extended abdominoplasty may also be referred to as an extended abdominoplasty. This course of treatment may be recommended for patients with excess skin over the entire abdomen and torso, especially if they have sagging in the upper abdomen, lower chest, and back. During this procedure, the surgeon will make a horizontal incision along the bikini line in a manner very similar to a full tummy tuck. In addition, a full mid-back incision will be used to perform a more complete removal of excess skin on the abdomen, lower chest, and back. For patients with severely loose skin on the torso, an extended abdominoplasty can produce more noticeable results before and after a full abdominoplasty.
The benefits of a tummy tuck
Those with stomach fat know better than anyone that stubborn pockets of fat on the belly are the hardest to get rid of. Whether caused by genetics, aging, hormonal changes, or pregnancy, the stomach is sometimes impervious to diet and exercise. That’s why so many people turn to a tummy tuck, a procedure that not only removes excess fat and the skin that causes it, but also creates a flat stomach.
A tummy tuck can last for years, so you can enjoy the results of your tummy tuck for as long as possible. Like a tummy tuck, liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures around. However, unlike liposuction, a tummy tuck can treat excess skin. Although liposuction is very versatile, its main function is to perform fat reduction, and in fact the ideal liposuction candidate has a lot of skin elasticity.
The scar left by a tummy tuck is usually located above the pubic area from one hip bone to the other hip bone, making it very easy to hide with your underwear. Because a tummy tuck lifts the loose skin below your belly button, a tummy tuck can remove those pesky stretch marks that are a hallmark of pregnancy and childbirth. Stretch marks are caused by stretching of the skin that exceeds the elasticity and growth of the skin, causing tears that turn into horizontal lines in the skin. Although there are hundreds of creams and lotions that claim to reduce stretch marks, their efficacy is questionable and for this reason skin removal with a tummy tuck is the most effective treatment.
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Stages of tummy tuck
A typical abdominoplasty takes about 2.5-3 hours and is a lengthy procedure that requires the patient to stay in the hospital for at least one night. Here at Turkiyaholidays Centre, we usually perform abdominoplasty procedures under complete general anesthesia, to make everything as comfortable as possible.
Liposuction
Most abdominoplasty procedures are combined with liposuction, which is great for removing some excess fat around the belly area. This will be the start of the procedure, making it more convenient for the surgeon to deal with any excess skin and flat-belly muscle tissue.
skin relief
For women, a horizontal incision is made on the lower part of the abdomen somewhere below the bikini line. The surgeon will then release the skin attachments from the abdominal area, and carefully lower the navel onto the surface. This is the second step of a tummy tuck, which is able to redraw the skin around the abdomen.
Abdominal muscle repair
Almost every tummy tuck patient suffers from diastasis recti, a condition in which the abdominal muscles separate, causing flatulence, back pain, or other discomforts. The next step in the abdominoplasty procedure is thus the recovery of the muscles, where they are carefully tightened, stretched and sutured together into the abdominal structure.
Skin remodeling
After the stomach muscles are tightened, the surgeon will reshape and remove some of the excess skin to create a flat stomach. After the surgery, the nurses will take care of the patient making sure that the pain after the tummy tuck is not too bad, and to continue taking care of them through one to two nights in the hospital.If you want to know more about the shape of the abdomen, from consultation to recovery, you can
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The cost of a tummy tuck
Taking a step back , we can first look at the elements that make up the total fee and cost of a tummy tuck. In general, the total cost of surgery can be divided into three main areas:
- Surgical fees: This includes the actual surgery performed by the surgeon as well as aftercare
- Anesthesia fees
- Hospital fees
The exact total cost of the surgery will vary depending on many factors, including:
- How much does the surgeon, anesthesiologist and hospital cost?
- If you have private insurance, what level of coverage do you have, and if your fund covers the procedure
The cost of a tummy tuck in Turkey is much lower than other countries that work in the field of medical tourism. If this makes you question it and you wonder why the procedure is so cheap, we will tell you why. The spread of plastic surgery in Turkey has made Turkish plastic surgeons more experienced, skilled and highly experienced in their field compared to their foreign colleagues. To attract the largest number of patients, Turkish hospital centers compete with each other by modernizing and providing the best equipment. So, you can rest assured that the quality and success of a tummy tuck in Iran is remarkable.
But still, there is this question, why is the cost of a tummy tuck in Turkey low?
The answer is that Turkey is one of the cheapest countries in the world in terms of living expenses. Not only are medical costs and payments low in Turkey, but so is accommodation.
The cost of a tummy tuck in Turkey is around 3000 USD which varies according to the surgeon and the hospital. But you may want to combine a tummy tuck with liposuction which increases the price somewhat.
The cost of a tummy tuck may be lower than in many other centers and hospitals, but it is performed by a highly skilled and experienced group of international doctors. Abdominoplasty prices at the Turkiyaholidays Center:
Tummy tuck type | lower cost | higher cost | Duration of stay |
Full tummy tuck | 2000 dollars | $4,000 | 3 nights |
Mini tummy tuck | $1,500 | $2,500 | 2 nights |
Extended tummy tuck | $2,800 | $4,500 | 3 nights |
Limited tummy tuck | $1,700 | 3000 Dollars | 2 nights |
Laparoscopic tummy tuck | 3000 Dollars | $4,000 | 2 nights |
When will the results of a tummy tuck appear ?
You must be patient, because any plastic surgery takes some time to stabilize and show its final results. Recovery from a tummy tuck will take some time. For many patients, initial postoperative recovery will take about a week.
A full recovery will take about six weeks, but you’ll likely be able to return to work about 7 to 10 days after surgery and to the gym in two to three weeks.
The recovery period from a tummy tuck varies from one patient to another, but it generally ranges from one to two weeks in the majority of patients.
After having a tummy tuck, you will be given post-operative instructions and general advice on your recovery. You will be told how often to change the dressings, whether to shower or take a sponge bath, and what are the limits on your activities and movement.
You will likely be asked not to sit in the shower or hot tub and sitting in standing water before the incisions heal can lead to infection. Your instructions should include signs to watch out for, such as a high temperature or bleeding from the incision, and contact information for your plastic surgeon.
Your surgeon will ask you to wear a support garment to compress your abdomen, aid in healing, and control swelling. You should follow your surgeon’s recommendations regarding painkillers and antibiotics.
A tummy tuck is a common procedure used to repair flabby muscles and improve sagging skin and excess fat. It is not an effective way to lose weight, and not everyone who chooses a tummy tuck is overweight. In fact, people who have lost a significant amount of weight may decide to undergo abdominoplasty to remove unwanted loose skin associated with significant weight loss. The expectation is that the results of the tummy tuck are permanent. However, results can often depend on individual choices made after surgery.
After the surgery, the skin will be smoother and the stomach muscles will be tighter. The skin stretches back a bit over time and may be pinched, especially when sitting. Being overweight can also affect the positive results obtained from the surgery.
Abdominoplasty re-adjusts the muscles to the appearance of the abdomen, and it is up to the patient to maintain this result with proper diet and exercise. These procedures may go a long way in ensuring permanent results.
How do I sleep after a tummy tuck?
Because the skin is tight and stretched, an optimal position is needed so that the wound does not stretch. When sleeping, avoid lying on your back as this stretches the wound. Instead, you should sleep as if you were sitting in a reclining chair.
If you don’t have a sleeping chair, you can do this on the bed with pillows under your head and under your knees. This position helps keep the waist bent.
Lying on your side with your knees bent is also an option but it is not highly recommended as it can lead to swelling on the side that touches the bed. It is still best to be in a reclining position when sleeping. Although it may be uncomfortable, this will increase your chances of getting the best possible results from the surgery.
Although it is recommended that the tension on the wound be kept minimal, this does not mean that you should just sit in a reclining position all day. Patients are strongly advised to move around and walk around the room during the recovery period.
This helps the blood flow properly and prevents any blood clots in the veins. Having blood clots in your legs is life threatening. The blood clot can travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism. For this reason, you still need to get up and walk.
When you get up, it’s best to roll onto your side first to avoid putting too much tension or pressure on your incisions. It is also recommended to walk with your back not fully straight. This may sound strange, but you need to do this to ensure that the wound does not stretch.
When the wounds are healed, you can resume walking immediately because the wounds can already handle stress.
There are some products that can help you feel comfortable as you recover from tummy tuck surgery, such as an airplane pillow. This can be used to keep you in a supine position. There are also other ergonomically designed pillows that help put the muscles in the abdominal area into a comfortable position.
Sleeping in the reclining position can be uncomfortable, but you should only do it for at least two weeks. Although it would be best if you could prolong yourself in this position, after the first couple of weeks you can actually change into a more comfortable position to reduce discomfort.
Risks of a tummy tuck
For patients with loose skin and separated muscles, an abdominoplasty is the only way to achieve a firm, flat stomach. Liposuction procedures will only reduce excessive fatty tissue. They do not address the loose skin or loose or separated muscles that are common after having children.
In contrast, a tummy tuck combined with liposuction will treat excess skin and fat, and tighten loose muscles. All surgeries carry some risks and a tummy tuck is generally considered safe, if patients are properly treated with a qualified plastic surgeon in an accredited surgery facility.
The safety of abdominoplasty procedures has been reviewed extensively. Among the possible risks of a tummy tuck:
Hematoma or seroma
The most common tummy tuck complication is a hematoma or seroma, which is defined as a buildup of blood or fluid under the skin. If a hematoma or seroma occurs, additional treatment may be required including a drainage procedure.
infection
All surgeries carry a risk of infection. The risk of injury after a tummy tuck is 1% or less. The infection may require additional treatment including antibiotics or a drainage procedure.
visible scars
Scarring is an expected side effect of tummy tuck surgery. Usually, surgeons create low incisions on the torso around the bikini line so they can be hidden by underwear or a swimsuit. However, the placement and extent of scars varies slightly from patient to patient depending on their anatomy and individual needs.
Adverse reaction to anesthesia
Abdominoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia and is considered very safe. Modern anesthesia has never been safer when performed by a certified anesthesiologist in a fully certified surgical facility. It is important to undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation prior to surgery. During the surgery, your anesthesia will be monitored extensively to ensure your safety and comfort.
delayed recovery
The average patient can expect to spend approximately four weeks after surgery to recover, which will include about 2-4 weeks off work. However, some patients report pain, swelling, delayed wound healing, or other issues that last longer than the 4-week period.
tissue loss
Tissue necrosis, or dead tissue, is a relatively rare complication of abdominoplasty caused by reduced blood flow to the healing tissues. Small necrosis can be treated with dressings or other surgical techniques. Severe necrosis may require follow-up operations. Individuals who do not smoke and who do not have cardiovascular disease rarely experience tissue loss.
Sensation change
Many patients experience altered sensation in the surgical area for weeks or months after the procedure. While tummy tuck patients should regain normal sensation in their abdomen as healing progresses, some patients may experience persistent numbness or decreased sensation over time. Some patients report a small area of permanent numbness after tummy tuck surgery below the belly button. This numbness is hardly a major concern for patients after surgery. If the restoration of sensation does not progress normally, it is important to inform your surgeon.
Damage to basic structures
For patients who opt for a full tummy tuck, the surgeon may tighten the muscular tissue of the stomach. While it is extremely rare for patients to seek treatment from a qualified plastic surgeon, muscle or organic tissue damage can occasionally occur.
blood clots
Developing blood clots in the legs or lungs is a very rare but potentially very serious complication for patients undergoing any type of surgery including tummy tuck. The overall risk of developing a blood clot after abdominoplasty is about 2 in 10,000. Patients at increased risk of developing blood clots include age over 40, use of birth control pills, previous personal or family history of blood clots, obesity, and smoking. The surgeon will take precautions during the surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots. It will also be important for you to walk early after surgery to improve circulation.
Fat embolism
Occlusion is a serious condition that often occurs after long bone fractures. It may also occur very rarely with liposuction, tummy tucks, and other surgeries that relieve pockets of fat. The risk of fat embolism after a tummy tuck is believed to be less than 1 in 10,000. If fragments of fat are detected in blood vessels or lungs, the results can be serious or even fatal. Your surgeon will review your individual risk factors and warning signs before surgery.
allergy
Patients may have allergic reactions to medications or surgical materials, such as antibiotics, pain medication, or other substances. To reduce the possibility of an allergic reaction during surgery or recovery, your surgeon will review your medical history.
Unsatisfactory results
Patients may experience unsatisfactory results, scarring, or asymmetry necessitating a second surgery or surgical revision. Working with a highly experienced surgeon on your initial surgery will reduce your risk of needing a second operation.
Ultimately, a tummy tuck is a safe option for healthy patients. It is much safer when choosing a skilled and qualified plastic surgeon. If you are considering this procedure, make an appointment to consult with an experienced, reputable plastic surgeon to discuss potential benefits and risk factors. An experienced surgeon will be able to provide individual insight into your unique risk factors, and recommendations for the best possible outcome.