Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)

Abdominoplasty is an operation that can be performed for both men and women. It involves removing the excess abdominal skin and fat, and usually repositioning the umbilicus (belly button) to a more aesthetic position.

Most people who are interested in this operation have either lost a significant amount of weight, have some loose skin from pregnancy, or have a stubborn roll that they can’t lose with exercise alone.  The goal is to have a flatter tummy which may help you fit into clothes you otherwise couldn’t.

Some women may have a divarication, or separation, of their abdominal muscles. This is common after pregnancy. At the same time as an abdominoplasty, Marc Seifman is able to help tighten these muscles to bring them back together and also try to improve the shape and tone of your belly.

Some people who have urinary issues have reported that abdominoplasty helps their bladder control.

Some people, usually those who have had massive weight loss, may need more than an abdominoplasty alone, and they may need an extended abdominoplasty or a body lift.

Whatever your desired outcome is, Marc Seifman is able to help guide you on your journey to achieve your own personal goals.

Abdominoplasty can be performed alone or with liposuction. The abdominoplasty is able to remove skin and fat from certain areas of the abdomen. Liposuction may help with contouring of your belly or flanks.

There are women who would like both an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and a mastopexy (breast lift) at the same time. This is not uncommon for women who have finished having their children, and feel that their breasts might be deflated or saggy, and they have loose or excess abdominal skin. The two operations can be performed at the same time, or can be performed in two stages. Marc Seifman is happy to explain this to you and what best suits you.

There are scars along the bottom of the abdomen and usually around the belly-button, or umbilicus, although Marc Seifman aims to make these as discreet as possible. Liposuction helps to remove fat from the areas that an abdominoplasty can’t address, and help with shaping your tummy.

Most commonly, there will be one drain used for each side of the abdominoplasty, and potentially a third drain. They typically begin to be removed on the second day after the operation, although this decision will be made by Marc Seifman depending on how much volume there is in the drain bottle. You may be able to go home with a drain in, and this can be removed when you see Marc Seifman for your first post-operative follow-up outside hospital.

To begin your journey with Marc Seifman, you will typically have an initial consultation to discuss your goals and see how we can help you. It is important to remember that the initial consultation is a no obligation consultation. If you wish to proceed, we will schedule the surgery on a date that suits you. We will discuss the steps you need to take in the lead up to your surgery, and also on the day of your procedure.

Initially, you may experience some discomfort in the abdomen and flanks, in particular if you have had extensive liposuction. You will be wearing a post-operative binder and have instructions for medications to take at home, and exercises to perform. You should be able to go home within three days.

You should be able to return to work within two to three weeks depending on what your regular occupation is. We advise against strenuous physical activity and exercise within the first six weeks.