WHAT IS IT?

Removal of excess of skin and fat from a pendulous abdomen.

It is done for cosmetic (better appearance) reasons and is performed by a Plastic and reconstructive surgeon in a hospital under general Anaesthesia

DIAGNOSTIC TESTS

Pre-op panel

DESCRIPTION OF OPERATION

• A large, elliptical incision is made in the abdomen.
• Excessive skin and the underlying layers of excess fat are cut free and removed.
• Drains are left under the operative site to prevent accumulation of blood and fluid from tissue drainage.
• Both edges of the skin are gently stretched and carefully sewn together with sutures.
• Sutures can usually be removed in 10 to 14 days.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Wide scars.
• Excessive bleeding/ wound infection.
• Blood or serum collection beneath the flap where fat was removed.
• Necrosis of surgical flaps.
• Wound breaking open.

TREATMENT

SELF CARE

• Bathe and shower as usual. Between showers, keep the wound dry with a bandage for the first 2 or 3 days after surgery. If a bandage gets wet, change it promptly.
• Apply non-prescription antibiotic ointment to the wound before applying new bandages.

MEDICATION

Your doctor may prescribe:

Pain relievers, stool softeners to prevent constipation and antibiotics to fight infection.

ACTIVITY

• Resume work and normal activity as soon as possible.
• Resume sexual relations when able.
• Exercise will help maintain improved appearance. Consult your doctor about an exercise program after recovery.

BE ALERT FOR

• Increasing pain, swelling, redness, drainage or bleeding in the surgical area.
• Signs of infection: headache, muscle aches, dizziness or a general ill feeling and fever.
• Nausea, vomiting, constipation or abdominal swelling.