Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Abdominoplasty, sometimes referred to as a tummy tuck, is performed to remove excess skin, often due to weight loss or post pregnancy, and repair the muscle diastasis which can occur after pregnancy.
Initial Consultation
During your initial consultation with Dr Ritz, he will discuss your concerns and what sort of out come you would like. He will discuss your medical history such as any past surgery or medical conditions we need to be aware of and any medication you take, he will discuss lifestyle factors such as what you do for work and exercise. He will assess you to ensure you are a suitable candidate, and will then determine the best course of treatment. There are different options for this procedure, he will explain them and advise which he feels is best for you. He will discuss the risks associated with this procedure, there are risks associated with any surgery no matter how big or small, it is important you are aware of them and understand them. Once you have seen him you will see his Personal Assistant Georgie, she will discuss the costs and booking procedures.
THE DAY OF YOUR PROCEDURE
On the day of surgery you will admit to the hospital 2 hours prior to surgery. Dr Ritz will see you to discuss the procedure again and draw pre operative markings on you. This procedure is performed under general anaesthetic. You will have a consultation with the anaesthetist prior to going into surgery. Incisions are placed low on the abdomen, inside the panty line, which helps conceal any scarring afterwards. For a full tummy tuck, the incision will extend from one hip to the other. Through the incision, Dr Ritz will remove excess skin and fatty tissue to create smoother midsection contours. Liposuction is often used during the tummy tuck to provide additional sculpting. If muscle diastasis has occurred, the muscles will also be repaired, creating stronger internal structures.The wounds are closed and drains are placed.
RECOVERY
You are required to stay in hospital for 3-4 nights. Your drain tubes will be removed before you go home and a compression garment will be put on which you are required to wear day and night for 6 weeks. We will arrange post operative appointments to have your dressings changed weekly.
POST-OPERATIVE CARE
You will be unable to drive for the first two weeks after your tummy tuck, in part because of the medication you will likely be taking to keep you comfortable during those first few days of recovery. You will likely be able to resume most light activities within two to three weeks. However, physical activity that involves heavy lifting or other strenuous exercises will be limited for the first six weeks to give the midsection ample time to heal. It’s highly recommended that you get clearance from Dr Ritz before your resume your usual exercise routine or return to your physically demanding job.
Depending on what you do for work you will require anywhere from 2-6 weeks off. You are unable to drive for the first 2 weeks. You are also limited with physical activity, including heavy lifting and going to the gym which you cannot do for the first 6 weeks. You will be given detailed post operative care instructions prior to surgery.
DISCLAIMER
**Individual results will vary based on factors such as genetics, age, diet and exercise. The outcome experienced by one person do not necessarily reflect the outcomes that other people may experience.
All surgery carries risks. These risks include but are not limited to bleeding, infection, scarring, pain, numbness, asymmetry. All surgery requires a recovery period and post operative care. This will be all discussed in further detail during your consultation**
Morris Ritz is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon
AHPRA Registration: MED0001156076