Body contouring
Body contouring surgery are surgical procedures performed for fat removal, excess skin removal, and tightening of deeper tissues to improve body shape.
Pregnancy and significant weight loss can leave behind unsightly loose and sagging skin. Surgery is sometimes necessary to help manage problem areas that cannot be resolved with weight loss and exercise.
Body contouring procedures are performed to remove areas of excess skin, at the same tightening the tissues and giving the body a “lift”.
Body Contouring Procedures Include:
Body contouring surgery is tailored to each individual’s needs. More than one procedure may be required to achieve the result that you are looking for.
All the procedures are performed under anaesthesia, and scarring is minimized by placing incisions in less prominent places. Though some down time is expected for body contouring procedures, the final outcome tends to be very satisfying.
Body contouring can be done to improve self-confidence when clothings fit better, and to feel more comfortable in clothes.
It is also performed for medical reasons such as to resolve some health issues like rashes from excessive skin folds.
Tummy Tuck & Lipectomy
What Is Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tuck or otherwise known as lipectomy or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure to move the excess fat and skin that has collected around the lower abdomen. Deeper tissues and muscle layers are also tightened, making the abdomen firmer and flatter.
It helps give a smooth contour to the abdomen by reshaping as well as tightening the skin. It is good for patients with previously stretched skin that has not shrunk back.
Different Types of Tummy Tuck Surgery
Full tummy tuck (Full abdominoplasty)
A full abdominoplasty requires a horizontal incision from hip to hip just above the pubic area. The shape and length of the incision is determined by the amount of excess skin and fat that needs to be removed.
The abdominal wall skin is lifted and the abdominal wall muscles are repaired. An incision is made around the umbilicus to free it so as to allow the upper abdominal wall skin excess to be corrected.
The entire abdominal wall skin is then pulled to tighten before the lower abdominal wall excess skin is excised and the skin edges sutured together. A small opening is made to allow the umbilicus to be brought to the surface and repositioned.
Mini tummy tuck (Limited abdominoplasty)
A shorter incision is made in the lower abdomen/pubic area so that the resulting scar is smaller. This procedure is suitable for individuals whose excess fat and skin are mainly in the lower abdominal wall, without significant laxity of the abdominal wall muscles or divarication. The scar from this procedure can be well hidden and recovery from surgery is usually faster.
Extended / Circumferential Abdominoplasty
In an extended abdominoplasty, the incision is extended past the hips on each side to include the flanks. In a circumferential abdominoplasty, the incision is made all around the circumference of the lower abdomen like a belt. This procedure is needed if the individual has excess fat and skin at the back as well as the front. It can improve the body shape and contour all round. Individuals who have undergone significant weight loss or bariatric surgery may benefit from this procedure.
Tummy tuck with Liposuction
The different types of tummy tuck operations can be combined with a liposuction procedure at the targeted areas to give the best results in body contouring. This may not be suitable for everyone. It is best to have a consultation and detailed discussion with our specialist before deciding on the most suitable option.
Who will benefit from a Tummy Tuck surgery?
Tummy tuck is suitable for people
- After weight loss from diet and exercise
- After massive weight loss after bariatric surgery
- Women after multiple pregnancies
- Individuals who have lost weight but have localized areas of fat that cannot be corrected with further diet or exercise
An ideal candidate should have no serious health problems, no upper abdominal scars, stable weight for some time, and realistic expectations. Smoking should be stopped at least 2 weeks prior to surgery. You should also inform your surgeon if you are taking long term medication or supplements.
How is the Abdominoplasty/Tummy Tuck procedure done?
A detailed consultation will first be performed by our specialist to address your specific concerns and a detailed examination performed to make sure you are an ideal candidate for the operation.
A full abdominoplasty is usually performed under general anaesthesia with overnight hospital stay. A mini abdominoplasty is usually performed under general anaesthesia but can be done as a day surgery procedure. This means that you will be able to go home on the same day of your operation.
What a tummy tuck cannot do?
A tummy tuck is not a solution to reduce body weight. In fact, fluctuations in weight can affect the outcome of a tummy tuck operation and even undo the results initially achieved.
You are advised to first lose weight through appropriate diet and exercise. Localized areas of fat that cannot be corrected with further diet or exercise, together with areas of excess skin that has resulted from weight loss will then be corrected with a tummy tuck operation.
Stretch marks on the abdominal wall cannot be removed with a tummy tuck operation unless they are on the lower abdominal wall skin which is removed during surgery.
Abdominoplasty Post-Operative Care and Recovery
Immediately after surgery, you may experience some discomfort/ mild pain and soreness as well as bruising and swelling. These should be easily managed with medications prescribed. Discomfort should subside within a few days while swelling may take a bit longer to settle.
A small tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain excess blood or fluid from the operation site. This will be removed over time as the drainage subsides. You will be given specific instructions on how to care for the surgical drain and dressings, medications to aid in recovery, as well as specific concerns to look for at the surgical site.
There is a down time of about 2 weeks for wound healing. Strenuous activities should be limited for 4-6 weeks post-surgery. Compression garments will be required for up to 6 weeks to help control swelling and give support to the operated area as it heals.
You will notice some results immediately after the procedure, although complete results may take months to be fully visible.
A consultation with our plastic surgeon can provide you with more information about the various tummy tuck procedures, help you select the best option for your body, and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Tummy Tuck FAQs
How much does a tummy tuck cost in Singapore?
The cost of a surgery will depend on the type of procedure performed and whether overnight stay is required.
This will include:
- Surgeon’s fee
- Anaesthesia fee
- Hospital/Day surgery centre facility fee/Hospitalization fee
- Post-surgery garments
- Medications and dressings
What is the downtime for Tummy Tuck?
The downtime for a tummy tuck can vary depending on the type of procedure performed and the individual patient. Generally you will need one to two weeks to give your body time to heal properly. You should follow all post-operative instructions given by our surgeon.
What are the risks associated?
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with tummy tuck surgery. These include bleeding, infection and poor wound healing in the initial recovery period.
General risks include risks with anaesthesia, cardiopulmonary complications and deep vein thrombosis.
Asymmetry, numbness or changes in skin sensation, prolonged swelling, unfavourable scarring are some factors that can give suboptimal results.
Our surgeon will take all necessary precautions to reduce the risk of these complications. You can also minimize adverse reactions by ensuring that you are an ideal candidate for the surgery, following post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments regularly.
Overall, tummy tuck surgery is a safe and effective procedure for those looking to reduce excess fat and skin from their abdominal wall.
Is a tummy tuck very painful?
The amount of pain associated with a tummy tuck depends on individual factors such as the patient’s tolerance and the type of procedure performed. Generally speaking, most patients report experiencing only mild to moderate discomfort post-operatively.
Can I exercise after a tummy tuck?
It is important to follow the instructions for post-operative care and allow time for wound healing before starting exercise. We advise that strenuous activities should be avoided for 4-6 weeks after surgery. Once fully healed, you will be able to return to your normal activities and exercise routine.
Can I get a tummy tuck if I intend to get pregnant again?
While the tummy tuck surgery will not have any impact on your ability to get pregnant or affect your pregnancy, it is recommended that you do not undergo tummy tuck operation if you are planning to become pregnant in the future. This is because pregnancy can affect the initial results of your tummy tuck operation due to the weight gained during pregnancy, stretch of the abdominal wall muscles and skin.
Does your waist size change after a tummy tuck?
Yes, your waist size can change after a tummy tuck procedure. Excess skin and fat is removed, and abdominal muscles are tightened. As a result, you may enjoy a slimmer and flatter waistline.
How long does abdominoplasty last?
The results of tummy tuck surgery are typically long-lasting. However, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, have a healthy diet and exercise routine in order to ensure that the benefits of the surgery are maintained over time.
Can I get a tummy tuck if I have had previous surgery?
Yes, you can still be considered a good candidate for a tummy tuck even if you have had previous abdominal surgery. However, it is important to discuss any prior surgical procedures with your surgeon before going through with a tummy tuck. This will help them assess any risks associated with the procedure and determine if it is safe for you to undergo.
How long do tummy tuck scars take to fade?
The amount of time it takes for a tummy tuck scar to fade may vary from person to person. Generally, most scars will start to lighten and become less noticeable after one year.
Can I Use Insurance for Tummy Tuck / Abdominoplasty?
Generally, abdominoplasty or tummy tuck surgery is not covered by insurance. However, there may be certain cases where the procedure is deemed medically necessary.
If you are considering tummy tuck surgery and would like to learn more about the procedure, contact us or a consultation. We will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you have and help determine if tummy tuck surgery is right for you.
Repair of Rectus Divarication
What is Rectus Divarication?
Rectus divarication or diastasis refers to the separation of the left and right core muscles, leaving a gap. It can appear as a bulge in the abdominal wall, making one appear “fat” even after weight loss, or after pregnancy.
Diastasis or divarication of the rectus muscles is a common outcome of pregnancy, particularly if the baby was large, if the woman had had more than one pregnancy, or if the woman had multiple babies in one pregnancy. In such cases, the abdominal wall can get so stretched out that they lose their elasticity and the ability to retract back to their original state.
This problem of rectus divarication if left uncorrected for a long period of time, can give rise to other medical conditions like back pain from poor posture trying to balance the bulge. Core muscle strength is also reduced.
How does Rectus Divarication occur?
During pregnancy, the two core muscles split apart to accommodate expanding uterus in the abdominal cavity. The abdominal wall stretches out and lose their elasticity, sometimes not able to retract back to their original state.
Diastasis or divarication of the rectus muscles is a common outcome of pregnancy, particularly if the baby was large, if the woman had had more than one pregnancy, or if the woman had multiple babies in one pregnancy. In such cases, the abdominal wall can get so stretched out that they lose their elasticity and the ability to retract back to their original state.
What can be done to improve Rectus divarication?
Mild cases of rectus divarication can be improved by exercise and physiotherapy.
Severe cases may need surgery to address the problem by stitching the core muscle back together. This is usually performed with tummy tuck procedure. Excess skin is removed after abdominal muscles are stitched together, tightening the abdominal wall.
Surgery to correct the bulge may not necessarily be for cosmetic reasons.
What happens in the surgery to repair Rectus Divarication?
This plastic surgery is performed together with a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedure. Excess skin is removed, the abdominal muscles are stitched together, tightening the abdominal wall. The extent of surgery and recovery time will depend on the severity of the problem. Usually support garments are used after surgery to help in the recovery.
Liposuction Fat Removal
What is liposuction?
Liposuction is a surgical procedure in which subcutaneous fat is removed by aspiration through a cannula passed under the skin via small cuts.
Who is an ideal candidate for liposuction Fat Removal Surgery?
Individuals who desire liposuction should have already lost weight but still have localized areas of fat that cannot be corrected with further diet or exercise.
There should be minimal skin laxity or skin excess.
Liposuction is not a solution for weight loss by fat removal. The procedure is good for patient who would like to modify their body shape or to improve the contour.
Liposuction does not remove cellulite or stretch marks.
How Long Is the recovery for Fat Removal surgery?
Liposuction is usually performed as a day surgery procedure.
Bruising, swelling and soreness if to be expected for a few weeks after surgery. Compression garments are recommended for about 1 month after surgery.
Dr. Ong is a fully accredited female Plastic Surgeon. She currently practices at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery at Gleneagles Medical Centre, serving patients in all Parkway hospitals, Mount Alvernia and Farrer Park Hospital. With over a decade of plastic surgery experience, she will take time to understand your goals and determine a personalized plan to help you create natural and long-lasting beauty.