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Would you like a flatter, more toned abdomen? When you’ve tried exercise regimes to no avail, you may wish to consider surgical options. To improve the aesthetic appeal of your abdomen, an abdominoplasty, otherwise known as a tummy tuck, is an appropriate solution. A tummy tuck involves the removal of excess skin found in the lower abdomen and can also tighten the abdominal muscles.
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However, a tummy tuck isn’t the best option for removing excess fat. When you wish to remove fat without removing any excess skin, liposuction is the better option. Liposuction involves using small cannulas to remove excess fat. However, this procedure is suitable for those who still have good skin laxity, as the skin will need to shrink once the fat has been removed.
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This is where lipoabdominoplasty comes in. Lipoabdominoplasty combines the tummy tuck and liposuction – so you can have excess skin removed through the tummy tuck and have liposuction at the same time.
Am I suitable for a Brazilian tummy tuck?
If you are considering a Brazilian tummy tuck, you must be in good physical and mental health. You will also be required to quit smoking before the procedure as well as during the recovery period.
If you have excess fat and skin around the abdominal area, you will be considered a suitable candidate for a lipoabdominoplasty. You will be a suitable candidate if you have been pregnant or undergone a large weight loss. However, if you are considered obese, you will not be suitable for this procedure.
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What does a Brazilian tummy tuck involve?
The lipoabdominoplasty procedure combines a tummy tuck and liposuction.
During the tummy tuck, the surgeon makes an incision that runs from hip to hip. The size of this incision will vary depending on the amount of excess skin being removed. The abdominal skin is then lifted, and the muscles and skin are tightened. The belly button is also repositioned.
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Next, any liposuction will take place. Centre for Surgery uses the SAFElipo method, which is a new and safer method of liposuction. Unlike traditional methods of liposuction, SAFElipo™ does not involve the use of any heat, making it far safer.
SAFElipo™ involves three distinct steps:
- Separation: the fat globules are separated, ensuring there is less damage to the blood vessels and stromal network.
- Aspiration: The fat cells are removed using a small, narrow cannula. This method uses vibration rather than suction.
- Fat Equalisation: there will be a layer of fat left untouched from the previous two steps. The surgeon will then equalise this layer of fat, leaving you with smooth, more natural-looking results.
A Brazilian tummy tuck is performed under TIVA anaesthetic, which means you will be unable to see, hear, feel or remember any part of the procedure. TIVA has a fast onset and offset with a quick recovery. Once the effects of the anaesthetic have worn off, you will be able to return home without the need for an overnight stay.
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What is recovery like after a Brazilian tummy tuck?
After the lipoabdominoplasty, it is normal to experience some pain and discomfort, particularly around the abdominal area. You can manage this by taking pain medication. You will experience some bruising and swelling, which will last between one to two weeks. You will be given a garment to wear, which will help to reduce these symptoms.
RELATED: What does a tummy tuck recovery involve?
You will have to avoid any strenuous activity for four to six weeks. You will be able to notice the final results of the procedure once the swelling has completely gone down. However, this may take a few months.
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Interested in a Brazilian tummy tuck? This is a procedure that Centre for Surgery currently offers. Contact us today to find out more or to book a consultation.
