Tummy Tuck / Abdominoplasty
The tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure performed in cases where the abdominal skin is too loose for liposuction, or in order to remove distinct stretch marks or scars. It involves an incision from hip bone to hip bone. A large flap of skin and fat reaching from the lower abdomen region to the ribs is removed to include all or most areas affected by stretch marks. A second incision is made to free the navel from the abdominal tissue and to mobilize the remaining skin which is later used to cover the abdominal area. Finally, the abdominal wall muscles themselves are tightened. This is the most important and time consuming part of the procedure, which reduces the waistline and results in a permanently slimmer look. When choosing a plastic surgeon, it is important to make sure that the surgery includes not only removal of the skin and fat flap, but also tightening of the slackened abdominal wall. After the muscles have been tightened, the navel is repositioned and the skin and fat flap is redraped over the abdominal area and stitched in place. Because, following the operation, the lower stitches are under a considerable amount of tension, patience and cooperation on the part of the patient is required. First, it is advised that you not smoke four weeks prior to and following the procedure in order to ensure good circulation and wound healing. In addition, at least two to three weeks after surgery, the patient is required to assume a slightly bent-over posture when walking to prevent strain on the suture line. Including recovery the procedure takes a total of four to six weeks of which two to three days are spent in the hospital and two weeks or more, depending on the nature of your job, require stay-at-home recovery.
Patients from outside Berlin must remain in the area for at least seven days after surgery for intensive, post-operational care. In most cases the time and effort you invest ultimately pays off with a firm, slim abdomen and narrower hips without stretch marks. You will receive more detailed information on the procedure and your particular risk factors in preoperational consultation with Dr. Wolter.
In less pronounced cases, a minor tummy tuck may be performed in which only the skin in the lower abdomen area is tightened, often in combination with liposuction of excess fat. This procedure is especially suitable for patients with a large amount of excess skin but less excess fat and patients with stretch marks or scarring (from a C-section or gynaecological operation) in the lower abdomen area only. Recovery from this procedure is much shorter, which is sometimes even performed as an outpatient operation.
Visitor Information
We understand your interest in learning about the qualifications of your operating surgeon. Unfortunately, as of April 4, 2006, the German Law on Therapeutic Products prohibits the use of before and after photos. This applies to the information material and photos we previously provided as a download. This limitation is only relevant for German-located practices and clinics.
Because the Law on Therapeutic Products does not classify detailed information which is specifically requested as advertising, we are able to present before and after photos in the context of a thorough personal consultation in my practice or via the Internet. If you require a non-binding Internet consultation that provides photo material, please complete the form below.
Request further information
