Loose and excess abdominal skin can occur, for example, after significant weight loss or as the skin loses some of its elasticity. During an abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, excess skin is removed to tighten the abdominal skin and create a smoother contour of the abdomen.
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After significant weight loss, loose, excess skin may remain on the abdomen. The extent to which the skin retracts varies from person to person and depends, among other things, on the skin’s elasticity.
For some men, the desire for a tummy tuck is about the appearance of the abdomen, while others may experience discomfort due to excess skin. During the initial consultation, the plastic surgeon will assess your individual circumstances and discuss your wishes and expectations regarding the outcome.
During an abdominoplasty, excess skin and subcutaneous tissue are removed, and the abdominal wall is tightened. The extent of the surgery depends on where the excess skin is located and how much correction is needed.
There are two types of abdominoplasty: mini-abdominoplasty and classic abdominoplasty. A mini-abdominoplasty treats loose skin below the navel, while a classic abdominoplasty may be appropriate for loose skin both above and below the navel.
For some men, changes in the abdominal area can involve both excess skin and a loose abdominal wall. This means that it is not always just the skin that affects the shape of the abdomen.
In a traditional abdominoplasty, it may be appropriate to tighten the abdominal wall muscles while removing excess skin. Whether this is necessary is assessed on a case-by-case basis and discussed with the plastic surgeon before the surgery.
Separated abdominal muscles, also known as rectus diastasis, is a condition in which the distance between the rectus abdominis muscles has increased. If you notice a bulge or a change in the shape of your abdomen, it is therefore important to have it evaluated to determine whether it is caused by excess skin, the abdominal wall, or a combination of factors.
Before the surgery, you will have a preoperative consultation with a plastic surgeon. During this consultation, you will discuss your wishes and expectations, and the surgeon will examine your abdomen and determine which type of tummy tuck is appropriate for you.
Before the surgery, the plastic surgeon will also assess your weight, overall health, and whether you smoke. It is recommended that you be close to your ideal weight and maintain a stable weight before the surgery. If you smoke, you must quit six weeks before the surgery and remain smoke-free for three weeks afterward.
You will receive information about the surgery, the expected outcome, and the location of the scars. If tightening of the abdominal wall muscles is necessary, this will also be evaluated and discussed before the surgery.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and lasts at least two hours, depending on the extent of the procedure. During an abdominoplasty, excess skin and subcutaneous tissue are removed, and the abdominal wall is tightened. How the surgery is performed depends on the extent and location of the loose skin.
A mini-tummy tuck treats loose skin below the navel. A traditional tummy tuck can treat loose skin both above and below the navel, and the navel is repositioned within the tightened skin. If agreed upon in advance, the abdominal wall muscles can be tightened at the same time.
After the surgery, your body needs time to heal. You can expect swelling, tenderness, and a feeling of tightness around your abdomen at first.
As a general rule, you must be hospitalized for at least one day, and you can usually expect to be discharged the following morning. You must arrange your own transportation home and are not permitted to drive yourself home.
After the surgery, you will be given an abdominal support belt, which you will normally need to wear around the clock for 3–6 months, depending on the extent of the surgery. You will also receive instructions on wound care, physical activity, and your post-operative care. How soon you can return to work, exercise, and your normal activities depends, among other things, on the extent of the surgery and your healing progress.
Scars are visible after abdominoplasty, but they gradually change as the area heals. The final result develops over time, and it may take up to 12 months before the result can be assessed. The result is expected to last for many years, but may be affected by factors such as aging, smoking, and weight changes. It is therefore recommended to maintain a stable weight.
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