Today derma to lumpectomy is a procedure usually considered secondary or ancillary to liposuction. Liposuction alone causes skin contraction, which may correct the entire problem or will, at least reduce the extent of any subsequent skin resection. Even though liposuction is the current body contouring procedure of choice, derma lumpectomy still has its place, especially when there is too much skin to respond favorably to liposuction alone.
The most obvious area to benefit from this type of operation is the abdomen of patients who have lost large amounts of weight (fifty pounds or more). The best candidate for this surgery is a person with relatively normal weight, weak muscles and excess skin.
A Tummy Tuck or abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to flatten a protruding abdomen by tightening the muscles in the abdominal wall and removing excess fatty tissue and skin. Many patients combine their tummy tuck with other cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, breast augmentation or breast reduction surgery.
THE PROCEDURE
A transverse incision is made across the lower abdomen and the skin is lifted upward toward the rib cage, saving the belly button by freeing it from the skin. Then the abdomen muscles which were flaccid are pulled together and tightened.
The skin flap is then red raped across these newly repaired muscles and the apron of excess skin and fat is removed. Then the belly button is repositioned and reshaped. Finally the incisions are sutured closed and Firm elastic dressings are applied.
POST OPERATORY
Abdominoplasty is usually carried either under general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia, although in some cases local anesthesia and sedation may be used. The procedure takes about three hours to be performed, and then you will be transferred into your own private suite, where our professional staff will assist you in all of your needs.
In abdominoplasty a one night stay is recommended, especially if associated with other procedures, although in selected cases the procedure may be carried out as an outpatient procedure, depending on the extent of the surgery and preoperatory conditions of the patient. For the first few days your abdomen will be swollen and you're likely to feel some discomfort, which can easily be controlled with medication.
Physical activity will be limited somehow after the surgery, but with the support garment, you are going to be able to increase your activity at a steady pace. You'll be feeling better with each day passing. We encourage our patients to begin walking as soon as possible although you must refrain from any stannous activity or lifting.
One important matter is that scars usually fade over time and are placed in areas where they will be easily hidden by underwear. Sutures are removed in between 7-10 days and most patients are able to return to their desk jobs after that. Patients who understand well this surgery are usually very satisfied because results are quite dramatic giving them a slimmer, trimmer figure, with a flatter abdomen.
