ABDOMINOPLASTY INFORMATION
Abdominoplasty in Galway | Tummy Tuck Surgery
Abdominoplasty, also known as a ‘tummy tuck,’ is a procedure which removes excess skin tissue after weight loss or pregnancy. This excess tissue can’t be reduced by diet or exercise, making an abdominoplasty a desirable option.
The Consultation
The process will begin by having a consultation with the consultant, during which you will be able to discuss your options and the consultant can access whether you are suitable for the operation. This is the time to address any concerns or queries that you may have in order to leave your consultation feeling informed and having a better understanding of the procedure itself.
Insurance
Your surgery is unlikely to be covered by health insurance. Should the consultant feel the criteria needed by the insurance to grant cover is met, a letter will be written applying for pre-approval on your behalf. In order for this pre-approval letter to be as accurate as possible it is important to note your current height and weight when coming in for your consultation.
If you do not have private health insurance or do not meet the criteria for insurance cover, we will send you a breakdown of the total cost of your procedure in the weeks following your consultation. The price can vary slightly per person depending on the complexity of each each case but an estimate may be given to you during the consultation.
Before Surgery
Payment:
Self-funded patients will be given a quote in the weeks following their consultation. The overall cost is broken down into three separate payments:
1. The consultant’s fee: this fee must be paid in advance of the surgery.
2. The anaesthetist’s fee: payment for the anaesthetist is given on the day of surgery.
3. The hospital fee: The Bon Secours Hospital will take payment on admission the day of surgery.
Fasting:
Fasting guidelines will be sent to you once your surgery is booked and these guidelines must be followed.
Queries:
The consultant will meet with you before your surgery so any queries you may have in relation to your procedure will be clarified during this time. If needed, a second consultation can be arranged.
General Health:
You will be asked to undergo blood tests on the day of your procedure. This is to ensure you are fit and healthy for your surgery.
Avoid aspirin for two weeks before and after your surgery as it may cause an increase in bleeding.
Avoid alcohol for at least two days before and after the surgery.
Personal Items:
In most cases you will be staying overnight so it is important to bring comfortable/loose clothing and any personal items you feel you may need. Tops with a full zipper on their fronts are a good option as they will avoid the need to lift your arms.
Do not wear jewellery and ensure you do not wear any nail polish/false nails as it/they will need to be removed.
Medication:
You may be advised to stop certain medication such as blood thinners. Please mention any medication of note during your consultation so the correct guidelines can be explained to you.
Smoking:
As for any major surgery it is advised that you quit smoking at least two weeks before and after your surgery as smoking increases your risk of chest and wound infections and slows down the healing process of the body.
Organising transport:
It is important to note that you will not be able to drive after the surgery so please arrange for someone to collect you.
The Procedure
Abdominoplasty is carried out under general anaesthetic and takes approximately 60-90 minutes. This procedure involves a long cut (horizontally) across the lower abdomen. Excess skin and fat are then removed from the muscles running from the pelvis to the rib cage. The skin is then pulled down and any excess is removed. This will result in a long, low scar passing from the centre above the pubic area out sideways to each hip. In some cases, liposuction may also be required to ensure the best outcome but this will be discussed during your consultation.
After Surgery
In most cases you will be required to stay overnight and in most cases, you would usually have drains in place. You will be discharged the following day. Please note you will not be discharged without having someone to drive you.
Pain following the procedure is expected and can be relieved with painkillers. You will be advised about bathing and care of your wound dressing prior to being discharged. Dressings will be changed one week after surgery during your first post-op appointment which will take place back in the Bon Secours Hospital and usually dissolvable stitches will be in place.
Scarring:
There will be a long, horizontal scar which is usually placed as low as possible on the abdomen and will fade over time. The severity of scarring varies per person. Some people are left with raised red scars but these will change to a white colour and fade slightly over time. Using a scar cream such as BapScar, which has a high silicone content, and massaging it into the scar tissue will be beneficial to the healing process. This may be used for approximately one month post-surgery or as advised by your consultant.
Infection:
Like with every surgical procedure there is a risk of infection. Should this happen, it can be treated with antibiotics but it is important to note that having an infection can slow down the healing process.
There may be a risk of seroma (seroma is a collection of fluid under the skin and if present may need to be drained in the clinic). Blood may collect after the surgery, and this may require a return to theatre for evacuation.
Compression Garments:
A compression garment will need to be worn after your procedure, especially if liposuction is involved as part of your surgery. Compression garments will need to cover the area being treated. The exact time frame for this varies per person as it depends on the complexity of your operation, the type of work you do and the body’s natural healing process but generally you can expect:
• Returning to work: 4-6 weeks
• Exercise/heavy lifting: up to 6 weeks
• Ability to drive: not for the first 2 weeks and only when you feel you have the ability to control the car adequately.
Post-op Appointments
Before being discharged from the hospital your first post-op appointment will be arranged. This appointment will take place in the out-patients department of the hospital a week to ten days after your operation. During this appointment your wound will be assessed and your dressings will be changed.
Post-op Appointments To Factor In:
1. First week post-up appointment back in the hospital in the out-patients department.
2. Second post-op appointment will be 4 weeks later in Galway Plastic Surgery. Please call us on (091) 779 775 to schedule this.
3. Final post-op appointment to make sure recovery is fully complete will be 3 months after your second post-op. This will be scheduled for you before you leave the private rooms when attending your second post-op appointment.