Tummy Tuck Surgery: Bring Back Your Best Belly

What is Tummy Tuck Surgery?

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. This surgery is often sought by individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or pregnancy, which can leave the abdomen with loose, sagging skin

What Can't Tummy Tuck Surgery Do?

While a tummy tuck can significantly enhance the appearance of the abdomen, there are limitations to what the procedure can achieve:

• It is not a substitute for weight loss or an appropriate exercise program.

• It cannot correct stretch marks, although some may be removed or improved if they are located on the areas where excess skin will be removed.

• It does not address underlying medical conditions such as hernias.

Who is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

Tummy tuck is the recommended procedure for candidates who are:

• Bothered by the appearance of their abdomen and have not achieved their desired results through diet and exercise.

• Individuals in good general health and maintaining a stable weight.

• Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking before and after the surgery.

• Individuals with realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery.

It is important to speak with a qualified surgeon so that they can help you evaluate your body and expectations to properly begin the process of organising your tummy tuck surgery.

How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost in Vietnam?

The cost of a tummy tuck in Vietnam can vary based on the surgeon's fee, anesthesia, operating room facilities, and other related expenses.

Average: USD 4300
Range: USD 3500 - USD 5100

How Should I Prepare for a Tummy Tuck?

When preparing for your tummy tuck procedure it is important to make sure you are ready and in the best condition before your surgery. Some general guidelines include:

• Consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals. The surgeon will take measurements, evaluate your health, and may take preoperative photos.

• Provide a detailed medical history, including current medications, any previous surgeries or medical conditions.

• Follow all pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon, such as avoiding certain medications (especially medications like aspirin and ibuprofen, and certain supplements - which can increase bleeding), and fasting before the procedure.

• Stop smoking & alcohol consumption at least 2 weeks before your surgery. Smoking can impair blood flow and delay healing, and alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding and interfere with anesthesia.

• Arrange transportation to and from the surgical facility on the day of the procedure. If you are coming to Vietnam, you can organise transport and other services with us: Hotels|Transport|Visas.

• Prepare surgery recovery kits and other resources and assistance during the initial recovery period including food, water, comfortable clothing, compression bandages & garments, wound dressings, and saline washes. Some of these things may be provided by the clinic or hospital - be sure to ask your surgeon.

• Plan time off from any work, commitments or other activities that should be avoided during the initial recovery period.

It is important to rest and allow your body to recover - closely follow these guidelines, as well as the instructions from your surgeon, to minimize any potential risks or complications.

Here at Vietnam Surgeons we also offer further information on how to prepare for any surgery in Vietnam, and how to ensure your have the most comfortable recovery.

What Are the Steps of a Tummy Tuck Procedure?

The tummy tuck procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: General anesthesia. The procedure begins with the administration of anesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free.

2. Incision: A horizontal incision is made between the pubic hairline and the navel. The length and shape of the incision depend on the extent of the surgery and the patient's anatomy. In a full tummy tuck, a second incision is made around the navel to free it from surrounding tissue.

3. Repair: The underlying weakened abdominal muscles are repaired and sutured.

4. Removal: Excess skin and fat are removed.

5. Closure: The remaining skin is repositioned, and the incisions are closed with sutures, skin adhesives, and/or tapes.

6. Dressings & Drains: Dressings or bandages are applied to the incisions, and small, thin tubes (drains) may be placed temporarily under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid.

What Should I Expect During My Tummy Tuck Recovery?

Recovery from a tummy tuck involves:

• Initial healing period of 1 to 2 weeks with swelling, bruising, reduced mobility, and discomfort.

• Wearing compression garments to minimize swelling and support the abdomen.

• Avoiding strenuous activities for at least 6 weeks.

• Following your surgeon's post-operative care instructions for optimal healing.

• Follow-up visits to monitor recovery and results.

What Results Can I Expect After Tummy Tuck?

The results of a tummy tuck are long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. You can expect a flatter, firmer abdominal contour that is more proportionate to your body type and weight.

Risks & Side Effects of Tummy Tuck Surgery

As with any surgery, tummy tuck surgery comes with potential risks and side effects, including:

• Infection

• Bruising and/or bleeding

• Scarring, which may be permanent.

• Changes in abdomen skin sensation, which may be temporary or permanent.

• Allergic reactions to anesthesia or materials used

• Uneven or asymmetrical results, or need for revision surgery

• Temporary or permanent numbness or nerve damage

• Prolonged discomfort or pain

• Dissatisfaction with the aesthetic outcome

It is important to discuss these risks and side effects with your surgeon to set realistic expectations for the surgical outcome and help make an informed decision.

Tummy Tuck Surgery Combinations

Tummy tuck surgery is often combined with other procedures to enhance overall results. Common combinations include:

1. Liposuction: Liposuction can be performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck to contour other areas of the body, by removing additional fat deposits from areas such as the hips, thighs, or arms.
2. Breast Lift (Mastopexy): Combining your tummy tuck with a breast lift can address sagging breasts and restore a youthful breast profile. In some cases, if your concern is not only sagging breasts but loss of volume, a better option may be a breast lift with implants.
3. Breast Augmentation: Breast Augmentation enhances breast size and shape, and is often part of a 'mommy makeover'.
4. Body Lift: Involves removing excess skin and tightening tissues in various body areas, such as a brazilian butt lift (BBL), thigh lift, and arm lift. Suitable for patients who have had significant weight loss.
5. Gynecomastia Surgery (for men): Undesirable chest enlargement and budding can be removed with surgery to create a more toned chest and abdomen contour when combined with tummy tuck.

Your plastic surgeon will assess your individual needs and goals to determine if combining lip surgery with other procedures is appropriate for you. Remember, some clinics and surgeons offer discounts and package deals for multiple procedures.

Non-Surgical Options

For those not ready for surgery, non-surgical options can provide some degree of improvement:

1. CoolSculpting: Freezes and eliminates stubborn fat cells.
2. Ultrasound or Radiofrequency Therapy: Tightens skin and reduces fat deposits.
3. Laser Skin Tightening: Boosts collagen production to firm the skin.

So, Should You Get a Tummy Tuck?

Choosing to undertake a tummy tuck will always be a personal choice and it is essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, expectations, and the potential risks. Ultimately, a tummy tuck can provide significant improvements to your abdominal contour, boosting your confidence and enhancing your overall quality of life.