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Mini Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) This is similar to a full abdominoplasty but avoids re-siting the umbilicus. It is usually combined with liposuction of the abdominal skin and hips and the recovery time is invariably shorter. PRE-OPERATIVE Weight - Should be close to ideal weight, therefore diet pre-operatively. It is not a correction for obesity. Smoking - Essential to stop at least 3 weeks prior to surgery, and until wounds are fully healed or at least 2 weeks after. Other scars - Some may prevent full abdominoplasty and the technique will be modified accordingly. Drugs - Avoid aspirin and similar drugs for 2 weeks pre-operatively. OPERATION Scar - Bikini line just above the hair line. Muscle tightening may be required especially following pregnancies. Sutures - Dissolving buried. Drains - Remain in place until significant drainage ceases. Dressings - Supportive bandaging, girdle supplied. POST-OPERATIVE Posture - The abdominal skin will feel tight and you are usually unable to stand up straight for several days. Skin support - Firm cycling shorts or girdle type pants should be worn for 6 weeks post-operatively day and night, in order to support the abdominal skin. Exercise - Avoid vigorous exercise, including lifting of heavy shopping bags etc, for 6 weeks. Moderate exercise such as walking or swimming is recommended at this time. Care of scars - Apply Micropore tape (1 inch) along the scar for 3 months to prevent stretching and accelerate scar softening. Vit. E creams may be used after this period. POTENTIAL PROBLEMS Pain - Moderate discomfort can be expected. - Avoid aspirin/ibuprofen type analgesics which can increase bruising. Bruising - May last for 2 - 3 weeks, and general post-operative swelling may last for several months. Wound - Occasional mild infection , invariably responds to a short course of antibiotics. - Rarely, delayed healing or skin loss. - Very rarely, serious infection or haematoma (blood collection) requiring drainage. Numbness - This is expected in the lower abdominal skin. Invariably lasts for 3 -6 months but may be permanent. DVT - Leg vein thrombosis is rare. Measures will be taken to keep risk low. ;){kind=small}
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