Abdominoplasty Cambridge

Your consultation is an important first step in understanding whether abdominoplasty is the right option for you. It is a dedicated, unhurried appointment where you can openly discuss your concerns, the changes you would like to see, and any questions you may have about the procedure.

Dr Abood will talk through your reasons for considering a tummy tuck and explain what the surgery involves, including the expected recovery process and what results may realistically be achieved.

What to Expect at Your Consultation

A thorough assessment of your abdomen is essential. During the appointment, Dr Abood will:

• Examine the skin quality and degree of laxity
• Assess muscle tone and identify any separation or weakness
• Check for existing scars, previous surgery, or abdominal conditions such as hernias
• Review your general health and medical history to ensure the procedure is safe and suitable for you

Once he has a clear understanding of your goals and anatomy, Dr Abood will advise which approach is most appropriate for you. You will also be able to view a selection of genuine before-and-after photographs from previous patients to help set realistic expectations.

A Two-Stage Consultation Process

Choosing surgery is a significant decision, and it is important that you feel completely comfortable and informed. For this reason, there is always a second consultation before any tummy tuck procedure goes ahead. This gives you time to reflect on the information from your first appointment, consider your options, and discuss any further questions or concerns before confirming your plan.

A tummy tuck is tailored to your body and your goals. Several techniques can be used, each involving the removal of varying amounts of skin and fat, with or without muscle tightening. The most appropriate option will be discussed and agreed upon with you during your consultation. Common approaches include:

Full Abdominoplasty (Standard Tummy Tuck)

This is the most frequently performed type of tummy tuck. It typically involves:

• Removing excess skin and fat from the area between the belly button and the pubic region
• Tightening the underlying abdominal muscles, if required
• Repositioning the belly button so that it sits naturally on the newly contoured abdomen

This approach is often suitable for patients with significant skin laxity and muscle weakness, for example, after pregnancy or major weight changes.

Extended or Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty

An extended tummy tuck, sometimes called a fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty, is usually reserved for patients who have lost a large amount of weight and are left with substantial loose skin across both the upper and lower abdomen.

Features of this technique can include:

• Removal of a larger area of excess skin and fat than in a standard tummy tuck
• Tightening and reshaping of the abdominal area in both the vertical and horizontal directions
• An additional vertical scar (in addition to the low horizontal scar), which allows more extensive tightening and contouring

Although the scarring is more extensive, this approach can offer a more dramatic improvement in selected patients.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini abdominoplasty is best suited to people who only have a small amount of excess skin and do not need their belly button repositioned.

Typically, this procedure:

• Focuses on the area just above the pubic line
• Involves the removal of a limited amount of loose skin
• Does not usually require repositioning of the belly button
• Takes around an hour in many cases and may be performed under either local or general anaesthetic, depending on the individual

Combining Tummy Tuck with Liposuction

For all types of abdominoplasty, liposuction can be added to refine the result. It can help to:

• Smooth out stubborn pockets of fat
• Enhance the waistline
• Improve overall abdominal contour and definition

Your treatment plan will be carefully personalised so that the chosen technique, and any use of liposuction, aligns with your anatomy, expectations and lifestyle.

Before you leave the clinic, you will be given clear written and verbal guidance on what to do and what to avoid in the first few weeks after your tummy tuck. You will also be provided with contact details so you can get in touch if you have any concerns during your recovery. Your progress is carefully monitored with follow-up appointments, which are typically arranged at around 1 week, 6 weeks, 3 months and 1 year after surgery.

In the days and weeks following your abdominoplasty, it is normal for the abdomen to feel tight, tender and swollen. Bruising and swelling can last for several weeks. You will be advised to wear a post-surgical compression garment, which helps support the area, reduce swelling and make movement more comfortable.

Although you will usually be encouraged to be gently up and about from the first day after surgery, it can take a number of weeks before you feel fully back to your usual routine. Most patients need some time off work and are advised to gradually increase their activity levels, avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercise until they have been medically cleared to do so.

You will notice a change in your abdominal contour straight away, but the final result takes time to settle. As the swelling gradually subsides and the tissues heal over the following weeks and months, the abdomen typically appears flatter, firmer and more defined. Your follow-up reviews are an opportunity to check healing, discuss scar care and make sure you are happy with your progress.