What is tummy tuck and who is it for?
Abdominoplasty is a surgical treatment that removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal area. This is often relevant for people who have experienced significant weight fluctuations, pregnancy or generally loose skin due to ageing. If necessary, the operation can be combined with liposuction and tightening of split abdominal muscles (rectus diastasis).
To find the best solution for you, a consultation with our experienced plastic surgeons is recommended. During the consultation, your wishes and needs will be assessed and the surgeon will provide thorough information about what is possible.
Video consultation
For those who live far away from Klinikk A, we offer video consultations. Please contact us if this is relevant.Different types of abdominoplasty
We offer several types of tummy tucks, depending on your needs:
- Full abdominoplasty (large tummy tuck): Tightens the skin both above and below the navel. This involves scars around the navel and lower abdomen, and can be combined with liposuction and correction of split abdominal muscles.
- Mini tummy tuck (lower abdominoplasty): Focuses on the skin below the navel. Scars are placed discreetly and can be covered by underwear.
- Modified tummy tuck: Tightens the midline and corrects split abdominal muscles. Leaves shorter scars than full and mini tummy tucks.
Before the operation
Before the operation, a thorough consultation with the surgeon is carried out. This is where you are mapped:
- Health history, including allergies and medications.
- Expectations and opportunities for the result.
- Practical preparation, such as avoiding certain medications and wearing compression garments after surgery.
You will also receive information about how the operation will affect your everyday life in the time after the procedure.
During the operation
The operation itself is performed under general anesthesia and takes 2-4 hours, depending on the extent. The surgeon removes excess skin, any fat deposits and stitches together divided abdominal muscles if necessary. Modern techniques make the procedure gentle, and drains are rarely used.
After the operation
Immediately after surgery, you will be transferred to a post-operative ward for recovery. Discomfort and swelling are normal, but our methods minimize pain in the first few days.
- Controls: The first check-up takes place 7-14 days after the operation, and further follow-up is arranged as needed.
- Healing: The swelling gradually subsides over the course of 3 weeks and it takes several months for the final result to appear.
Complications and risks
The risk of complications from abdominoplasty is low, but they can occur:
- Bleeding and infection: Very rare with our methods.
- Changed skin sensation: Temporary numbness or hypersensitivity around the scar may occur.
Our team is available around the clock to provide support should challenges arise.
Exercise and activity
For the first few days, you should stay calm and gradually resume daily activity.
- Simple training can begin after 3 weeks.
- Full loading of the abdominal muscles is only recommended after 8-12 weeks if they are sewn together.
Dressings and wound care
After the operation, Micropore tape and absorbent bandages are applied.
- Showering can be resumed after 3-4 days, with the tape on.
- The tape should be changed regularly and it is recommended to use it for 3-6 months for best scar healing.
For better healing, we recommend the use of Compression garments after abdominoplasty.
Before and after pictures
It is not permitted to show before and after pictures on websites in Norway. During the consultation, however, it is permitted to show before and after pictures. The surgeon can then show examples of patients who have undergone similar operations.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I get scars?
The scars are placed discreetly at the bottom of the stomach, below the bikini line.
Is it painful after the operation?
Most people experience only mild discomfort, but painkillers can be used.
Will I be on sick leave?
Cosmetic surgery does not normally entitle you to sick leave, with the exception of medical indications.
Do I get dren?
Drains are rarely used, but if necessary, you will be carefully trained in handling them.
