BODY CONTOURING

Body contouring surgery is a surgical procedure 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:

  • Abdominoplasty/Tummy
  • Tuck/Lipectomy
  • Repair of rectus divarication
  • Liposuction/Fat removal
  • Arm and thigh lifts
  • Breast Lift

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 anesthesia, and scarring is minimized by placing incisions in less prominent places. Though some downtime is expected for body contouring procedures, the final outcome tends to be very satisfying.


Body contouring can be done to improve self-confidence when clothes 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.

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 around. 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 anesthesia with an overnight hospital stay. A mini abdominoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia 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 the 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 downtime 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.

 

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.
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