Our Summary

This study compared two surgical techniques used in tummy tuck procedures: traditional abdominal plication and a method that uses non-absorbable mesh to fix the separation of abdominal muscles (rectus muscle diastasis), which often happens to women after multiple pregnancies. The study involved 63 women who received one of these two procedures and were followed up on a year later.

The findings show that there was no significant difference in terms of demographic data or satisfaction levels between the two groups of women. However, the group that received the mesh repair method did have a slightly longer hospital stay and drainage period. Both methods effectively reduced waist size and other measurements of the abdomen, and no recurrence of muscle separation was detected in either group.

The study concludes that preoperative assessments and imaging techniques can help surgeons decide on the best surgical approach for women post-pregnancy. The mesh reinforcement method might be the better choice for women with a diastasis of above 4 cm and who are also obese.

FAQs

  1. What were the two surgical techniques compared in this tummy tuck study?
  2. Was there a significant difference in satisfaction levels between the traditional abdominal plication method and the non-absorbable mesh method?
  3. Which method is recommended for women with a diastasis above 4 cm and who are also obese?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about tummy tuck surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include wearing compression garments, avoiding strenuous activities, and maintaining a healthy diet to support the body’s recovery process. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Overall, patients who are typically recommended for a tummy tuck procedure include:

  1. Women who have experienced significant weight loss and have excess skin and loose abdominal muscles
  2. Women who have had multiple pregnancies and have developed diastasis recti (separation of abdominal muscles)
  3. Patients who have tried diet and exercise but are unable to achieve their desired abdominal contour
  4. Patients who have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery and are in good overall health

It is important for patients to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if they are a good candidate for a tummy tuck procedure and to discuss the best surgical approach for their specific needs.

Timeline

Before the tummy tuck procedure:

  • Patient consults with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals and expectations
  • Preoperative assessments and imaging techniques are performed to determine the best surgical approach
  • Patient receives instructions on preoperative care and recovery
  • Tummy tuck surgery is performed using either traditional abdominal plication or mesh reinforcement method
  • Patient stays in the hospital for a certain period of time post-surgery
  • Patient may experience discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the abdominal area

After the tummy tuck procedure:

  • Patient is monitored for any complications during the recovery period
  • Drainage tubes may be in place to help with fluid removal
  • Patient follows postoperative care instructions, including wearing compression garments and avoiding strenuous activities
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing progress and address any concerns
  • Patient experiences reduction in waist size and improvement in abdominal contour
  • Over time, patient’s abdomen continues to heal and results become more apparent
  • Patient may be advised to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen to maintain results long-term.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a tummy tuck procedure, including the use of non-absorbable mesh?

  2. How long is the recovery period expected to be for each surgical technique, and what can I do to facilitate the healing process?

  3. What are the expected outcomes in terms of waist size reduction and improvement in abdominal appearance for each technique?

  4. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or participate in physical therapy after the procedure?

  5. How long do the results of a tummy tuck typically last, and are there any factors that could affect the longevity of the results?

  6. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could achieve similar results to a tummy tuck with non-absorbable mesh reinforcement?

  7. How experienced are you in performing tummy tuck procedures with non-absorbable mesh, and what is your success rate with this technique?

  8. Will I need to undergo any additional tests or evaluations before scheduling the surgery, to ensure that I am a good candidate for the procedure?

  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or habits that I should consider adopting before and after the surgery to optimize the results and minimize the risk of complications?

  10. How much does a tummy tuck procedure with non-absorbable mesh reinforcement typically cost, and will my insurance cover any part of the expenses?

Reference

Authors: Moharaq KA, El Fahar MH, Shouman OO, Hassan AA, El-Shebly AM. Journal: Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2024 May;48(9):1778-1789. doi: 10.1007/s00266-023-03743-y. Epub 2023 Nov 17. PMID: 37978087