Tummy Tuck / Abdominoplasty

What is a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a procedure that is performed to flatten the abdomen by surgically removing excess fat and skin from the lower abdomen. The procedure usually combines liposuction to help contour the final result. Most patients have some weakness of the abdominal muscles which require repair during the procedure.

What does the procedure involve?

Before undergoing a tummy tuck procedure, you will meet with Dr Pillay to discuss your options. If you have any questions or concerns, you can raise them with Dr Pillay, who will be happy to address them for you.

The surgery itself will take between two and three hours, depending on the type of procedure you have. The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic. There are two main types of abdominoplasty.

These are a full abdominoplasty, in which Dr Pillay will first liposuction the entire abdomen then make a cut in the lower abdomen all the way from the one hipbone to the other hipbone before moving the belly button; and a mini-abdominoplasty, in which fat and excess skin is generally removed from below the navel and there is no need to move the belly button.

How long does recovery take?

It is quite normal to experience some pain, bruising, and swelling after surgery. Dr Pillay will prescribe pain medications to help ease any discomfort.

The site of surgery will be bandaged with a special dressing after the procedure and specific body garment will be worn by the patient. You will need to limit strenuous activity and heavy lifting for around six weeks while your body heals.

If you opt for tummy tuck surgery, you can expect to experience some scarring. The scars may fade over time, but they will never disappear entirely. Dr Pillay will be able to recommend specially formulated creams and ointments to apply to your scars after your wounds have healed

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DR TRISHAN PILLAY

Located in Ballito and Umhlanga, operating in Netcare Alberlito hospital, Busamed Gateway and Ribumed Dayclinic. I am a Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic surgeon specialising in skin cancers, aesthetic breast, abdominal and facial surgery, hand injuries, cranio-facial deformities as well as burns and burn reconstruction.Read More

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PATIENT INFORMATION

Please view the patient information and resources regarding all the necessary information and forms that are required from each patient prior to the plastic, reconstructive or aesthetic surgery that Dr Trishan Pillay performs. Read More

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