Abdominoplasty usually takes between 2 and 4 hours and requires general anaesthesia. In some cases, it may additionally involve liposuction of fatty tissue from the tummy area. It requires a stay of at least 1 day at the Clinic. Abdominoplasty includes the following stages: 1. Anaesthesia The procedure is carried out under general anaesthesia. Before commencing the anaesthesia, the anaesthesiologist connects an apparatus that continuously monitors the patient's condition during anaesthesia. This usually involves endotracheal intubation, which involves inserting an endotracheal tube through the mouth into the trachea - organ of the respiratory system that supplies air to the lungs. Once the surgery is completed, the anaesthesiologist stops administering drugs maintaining general anaesthesia. It is sometimes necessary to administer drugs to reverse effects of the anaesthetic. After waking up, the patient's own breathing appears and consciousness returns. The anaesthesiologist removes the endotracheal tube after carefully assessing the patient's condition. The final choice of the type of anaesthesia and drugs used is made by the anaesthesiologist after medical interview with the patient. 2. Surgical incisions Full plastic surgery of the abdominal skin requires a horizontal cut in the lower abdominal (suprapubic) area - between the pubic hair line and the navel. The length and shape of this incision are determined by the quantity and distribution of flaccid, excess skin. Once the skin is dissected and lifted, the abdominal muscles are exposed. If there is a separation of the muscles, they may need to be corrected (sutured) to strengthen them. Once the muscles are repaired, abdominal skin is pulled from above, from the epigastric area, down to the lower abdominal incision, making sure it is properly tight. The navel on its vascular pedicle is extracted through an additional incision in the stretched skin and sewed into the abdominal layers in the new position with single sutures. Excess abdominal tissue is then cut away according to the markings. 3 Closure of incisions Before the wounds are sutured, drains, i.e. tubes, are placed under the skin to drain any blood or serous fluid that accumulates after the surgery. The cut in the lower abdomen is sutured (usually an intradermal suture is placed on the skin, which gives the best aesthetic effect and prevents the formation of an unsightly "ladder-shaped" scar). After the operation, an elastic compression garment is put on to prevent swelling, reduce tension and help the abdominal skin to shrink after the operation.

Recommendations after abdominal plication include: Restriction of any major physical exertion, including lifting heavy objects for the first 2 weeks. Failure to do so may result in bleeding and the need for revision surgery. It is necessary to lead a sparing lifestyle and to limit major physical exertions (especially lifting, carrying heavy objects, picking up children) for at least 6 weeks. It is usually necessary to take painkillers for some time after the surgery. Drains inserted during the operation are usually removed in the first 5 days after the surgery. If sutures need to be removed, this is done 10-14 days after the operation. You should wear an elastic compression garment for 6 weeks after the operation. This allows for faster recovery and return to normal activities. Smoking and inhalation of tobacco smoke should be strictly avoided at least 6 weeks before the surgery and 6 weeks after the surgery. Drinking alcohol must be strictly avoided. The patient must not tan the tummy skin for 6 weeks after the surgery (in the sun or in a tanning bed); it is necessary to use high photoprotection (creams with SPF 50 filter). It is necessary to attend follow-up appointments at the times indicated by the operator. It is absolutely necessary to see a doctor immediately if, after the surgery, there appear symptoms that may indicate embolic complications: - dyspnoea, shortness of breath, - chest pain, - palpitations, abnormal heartbeat. Smoking or exposure to cigarette smoke significantly increases the risk of complications during the surgery and of abnormal scar healing.

Uncontrolled chronic diseases, unstable weight and abnormal BMI, unrealistic expectations regarding appearance after the surgery, smoking.

Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia, thanks to which the patient does not feel pain during the surgery.

No, abdominoplasty is a one-time surgery.