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Abdominoplasty

Patients who have been through significant weight loss or pregnancy can be left with a tummy affected by stretch marks, looseness of the lower skin which may hang like an apron, and a bulge to the central part of the tummy due to weakness of the tummy wall muscles. The tummy may be additionally affected by the presence of caesarean or hysterectomy scars, which exacerbate the tendency for lower abdominal skin to hang over the bikini line.

Price From

£9663

Patients who have been through significant weight loss or pregnancy can be left with a tummy affected by stretch marks, looseness of the lower skin which may hang like an apron, and a bulge to the central part of the tummy due to weakness of the tummy wall muscles. The tummy may be additionally affected by the presence of caesarean or hysterectomy scars, which exacerbate the tendency for lower abdominal skin to hang over the bikini line.

Before The Surgery

Although exercise can help to restore the integrity and strength of the tummy wall muscles, no amount of exercise after weight loss or pregnancy will deal with redundancy in the skin.

During examination of patients who are unhappy with their tummy, I look at the excess skin and examine the integrity of the muscles. This is where we would determine whether a mini-abdominoplasty, liposuction of the lower abdomen alone, or a full tummy tuck is needed. Sometimes, where there is not much excess skin, we need to consider a modification of the “standard” technique, in which a short vertical scar is left below the belly button at the end of the operation in addition to the typical transverse scarring from an abdominoplasty. Patients who have additional excess skin in the upper abdomen (as can be seen after significant weight loss) may need a Fleur de Lys abdominoplasty, where the vertical scar extends from the pubis to the ribs.

It is important that your expectations concerning the outcome of the procedure are realistic. If they are, you can expect to be happier with the result. Patients still planning pregnancies should wait until completion of their family. I don’t offer this to patients who would be smoking around the time of surgery – it is critical to be able to stop for six weeks before and after surgery.

About the Procedure

Surgery is carried out under general anaesthesia with an overnight stay. The operation begins with an incision around the tummy button, which is retained. An ellipse of tissue is removed from the bottom of the tummy, and this includes any lower abdominal scars. The skin between the belly button and the ribcage is then lifted to access the muscles and create more mobility in the skin layer.

With the muscle exposed, it is possible to carry out a repair of any diastasis, which contributes significantly to the quality of the final outcome – it improves in particular the profile of the abdomen, and to a degree the waistline. Any liposuction contouring is carried out after the muscle repair, and before the wound closure.

The wound is closed by advancing the skin downwards over the old tummy button, which is brought out to the surface so that it is visible once more. At the end of the operation, all wounds will have been closed using dissolving stitches and light dressings are applied. A binder/surgical corset is applied to the wound to provide support, which is easily opened by nursing/medical staff to allow regular inspection of the abdomen in the post-operative period.

I don’t use surgical wound drains, which means you don’t have to go through the painful process of having these removed, and has the very important benefit of allowing early confident mobilisation and quicker discharge from hospital. I quilt all abdominoplasty wounds at closure which means I suture the skin layer back to the muscle layer to close the space that was created during surgery.

Recovery Process

You will be expected to be mobile by the time they leave hospital. This means that you should be getting dressed and pottering around and getting involved in light activities. It does not mean that you should be going home and doing normal household work! The presence of the lower abdominal wound means that driving is typically unsafe for a couple of weeks, and you should commence with short easy drives before attempting a long journey.

Once the dressings are removed in the outpatient clinic at one week, most patients will not require additional dressings, and advice is given on wound management. I recommend for either E45 your own preferred body moisturiser. It is probably worthwhile continuing with supportive binder or garment for 4-6 weeks – patients make their own choices.

Abdominoplasty is one of the commonest procedures I perform, and I find that, for most patients, it is a rewarding procedure that leads to improvements in the shape of the tummy, and in self-confidence.

Potential Complications

Abdominoplasty surgery leaves extensive scarring that is permanent and of uncertain quality. Scars typically heal to leave faint, narrow lines, which are cosmetically very acceptable. A small percentage of patients will have problems with over-healing scars, which may require additional treatment.

Haematoma (blood collection in the wound) occurs in a small number of cases and typically occurs within the first 24 hours. The treatment is to evacuate the blood collection and stop any bleeding under general anaesthetic. This does not normally have any long term consequences.

Infections do not normally develop until several days after surgery or even into the second post-op week. Typical signs include redness, swelling, pain, fever, feeling unwell, and discharge of pus from the wound. Superficial infections may be treated with antibiotics alone, but neglected infections or those which are severe, sometimes additional surgery is required and the outcome may be adversely affected.

General complications may occur, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, (blood clots in the veins and the legs which may dislodge to the heart/lungs and may be life threatening). This risk is higher on women taking oral contraceptive pills or HRT, but this risk can be normalised by discontinuing the pill for six weeks prior to surgery or changing to dermal patches. Some patients choose to continue taking the oral contraceptive or HRT – blood thinning injections are given to mitigate the risk.

Seroma formation used to be relatively common, but since the introduction of quilting techniques, I have found that the incidence of seroma formation is now a relatively rare occurrence. Seroma formation for most patients is a nuisance, which is managed by drawing fluid off with a needle and syringe in clinic.

The shape of the new umbilicus (tummy button) may be different from the old one, but usually is very good. If stretch marks are present in the upper abdominal area, these will remain after surgery because it is not possible to remove the entire abdominal skin. Stretch marks or scars in the area above the tummy button will move downwards.

The skin of the lower tummy is typically quite numb after abdominoplasty surgery. Most patients recover the ability to feel pain and temperature, but sensation never returns to normal.

Occasionally, patients undergoing abdominoplasty will have some kind of adjustment or revision in the future. Typically, this will involve a minor procedure under local anaesthesia and most commonly is to smooth out the ends of the main scar across the low tummy. Surgery is carried out with the patient lying flat on the operating table, and no matter how perfect things look in that position, appearances sometimes change when standing.

An amazing experience with Mr Winterton and his team. I went to see him regarding some moles I was concerned about. Having previously seen some other consultants, Rob made me feel at ease from the initial consultation all the way up to the follow up. You can tell he has a passion for his work and explains everything in detail so much so any questions you might of had you don’t need to ask as he has already covered them. The whole process was easy and ran smoothly. Having had the concerned moles removed, they are healing amazing and my scars are SO neat. I will definitely be recommending Mr Winterton. Thank you all so much – Amazing work from everyone!

October 22

Manchester

I went for my first consultation with Rob not really knowing if I was going to go ahead with any surgery. I’ve had a rather large saggy pair of breasts most of my life and had hated them for as long as I can remember. I’d been joining Cosmetic surgery sites on fb and various other places and Rob Winterton was the name that came up alot so I googled him and on a whim emailed. Within that day I had an appointment for a consultation and it wasn’t months away it was soon! The consultation went great, I felt really happy with what he was saying and how he explained things and from a minute in I knew I was going ahead. I had another consultation to go over things and make sure I was happy and I luckily got a cancellation and had my operation very quickly. The whole experience was great. The hospital was lovely, the care was great and I now have great new body. I’m not sure I would of ever gone ahead if i hadn’t had Rob as my surgeon, he was reassuring and made everything stress free and easy. I recommend him to everyone now and if I ever need anything else doing there’s only one surgeon for me.

October 22

Manchester

At the end of September l elected to have a neck and lower facelift . I am 58 years of age . After a lot of research l met Mr Winterton and straight away felt confident that l had found the right person to carry out this procedure . From the first initial meeting to now 6 weeks on from my operation , the care shown to me has been exceptional . I found Mr Winterton to be a true professional , a very nice man and an extremely skilled surgeon . I am thrilled with my own results . He was also very generous with his time and it was easy to talk through any concerns l had . He also has a wonderful secretary who is very much on the ball . All in all the best the best team and outcome l could have hoped for .

November 22

Manchester

I was very pleased that I chose Mr Winterton for my procedure. I had a problem with banana rolls. Mr Winterton listened to my concerns and after research and discussion found the best option to address this issue. Mr Winterton is kind and professional. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to family or friends.

November 22

Manchester

Mr Winterton was great – he was very reassuring without being patronising and listened carefully to my hoped-for outcomes, whilst also trying to communicate what was possible. I am really happy with my breast reduction results. I also appreciate that he suggests very few post-care products – if you watch YouTube or do research, you think you have to buy all sorts of products for scars, but ultimately my body has done most of the work by itself.

November 22

Manchester

I couldn’t be happier with my surgery and surgeon. I had the most wonderful treatment with Mr Winterton. He fully listened to all my concerns and took everything on board. Advised me perfectly and I had the most wonderful aftercare also. I’m 40 and feel like I have my body back. Couldnt recommend Mr Winterton enough

February 23

Manchester

It all started with a spot on my nose that kept bleeding when I was on holiday in Lanzarote in July 2022. I went to Dr Fitzgerald (Consultant Dermatologist) at the Highfield; he detected BCC on my nose & eyebrow & a tiny black spot on the back of my right arm. Black spot was malignant skin cancer !!! Fortunately Dr Fitzgerald is ACE too & got me a same day appointment with Rob Winterton. Rob has got rid of the Skin Cancer on my arm — 6″ inch scar – but hey ho. BCC on my nose is fine — just had a few more pests removed from eyebrow on 6 January. Rob is absolutely wonderful — as are his team in Surgery at the Alexandra & his 1st Class Practice Manager Vicki and his Nurse Alison. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

January 23

Manchester

So it’s been 2 years since Mr Winterton performed my tummy tuck And to say I am delighted with the results would be an understatement. So why have I waited 2 years to write a review? Purely to give a completely rounded review. I am still as amazed today by what he has managed to achieve as I was 2 years ago. The transformation can only be described as epic. The positive impact it has had on me has truly surprised me it has given me confidence I never thought was possible. I would give Mr Winterton 11 out of 10 not only for the results he produces, but for managing my expectations. On my 1st consultation he advised that I needed to lose some more weight to bring down my BMI which I did. I held up my end of the deal and he more than fulfilled his. Both the before and aftercare I received was world class the team that work with Mr Winterton are as dedicated as he is and I would recommend them without hesitation. All that remains for me to do is to thank Mr Winterton and the team for changing my life I am truly the happiest I have been in years

December 22

Manchester

Safe, Relaxed and Perfect Treatment from Start to Finish!

From start to finish my experience with Rob and Vikki his secretary has been nothing short of perfect.
From booking my consultation to feeling completely relaxed and having full confidence in Rob to my fabulous scar and results, I couldn’t be happier.
This was one of the best decisions I ever made and I couldn’t have picked a better surgeon to put all my trust in. After care has been brilliant and I’ve even cancelled my last app as I don’t need anymore care.
Super happy and grateful A*

January 23

York

My daughter was turned down for NHS ear pinning surgery. It has effected her confidence and she was subject to bullying because of it. I contacted Mr Winterton and in the first consultation with her he was outstanding. Most importantly he talked to my daughter all the way through, asking her what she wanted, why she wanted it, what she expected for the outcome and he managed that expectation in a very caring and sympathy manner. He shared coping techniques for any other children asking about the surgery. Every interaction with Mr Winterton and his team was an absolute pleasure and my daughter felt completely at ease. The surgery result was better than we could have hoped for. My daughters smile as she ties her hair up is priceless. And she has grown in confidence. Thank you to Mr Rob Winterton and his fab team (Alison/Vicki/Julie/the team at the Alexandra hospital- and a special mention to Phil on the paediatrics ward who was brilliant with his wit and bedside manner).

February 2022

Manchester

Mr Winterton was the third surgeon I consulted before my tummy tuck. I knew he was the right fit for me after his thorough examination, setting realistic expectations, in-depth information of what I could expect post op. His entire team were caring and true professionals. My surgery went smoothly and my results exceeded my expectations. The aftercare has been exceptional. Any query I had was answered immediately and I felt valued from start to finish.

March 2023

Manchester

I am a 68 year old lady and would have never considered plastic eye surgery (eye lid lift) but my optician recommended that I need it doing, as it was affecting my vision be cause of my drooping eye lids. I was on the NHS waiting list for it to be done but nearly 2 years of waiting, I decided to go private. The care and understanding I have received from Robert and his team has been excellent. The care during the procedure was outstanding and the aftercare again outstanding. I would highly recommend Robert for any procedure. Thank you Robert, Vicki and your outstanding team.

April 2023

Rochdale

Having seen numerous consultants for a breast reduction previously and having no luck or not feeling I had found ‘the right fit’, Mr Winterton came highly recommended to me. After my first consultation I knew I had found the ‘right fit’ for me. I felt completely comfortable & he listened to all of my wants, needs & worries. We had a great honest discussion about the whole experience start to finish and what techniques he would use, recovery time and what to expect going forward, how it worked & the process as a whole including realistic expectations post op. The aftercare I received from Mr Winterton and his whole team was second to none! Mr Winterton was caring and compassionate throughout it all & always made time to answer any questions or queries both pre and post op. I am now 8 weeks post op and although realistic expectations were discussed at prior appointments, I can honestly say that the results I got completely surpassed all of my expectations! I couldn’t be happier with my choice. Genuinely changed my quality of life and I couldn’t be more grateful.

April 2023

Halifax

I was recommended to Rob Winterton by a friend who had surgery in 2022. From my first consultation I felt I had complete trust in him to do my upper eyelid blepharoplasty. I had no nervousness on the day of my op and it was a very easy (on my part) procedure. The first few days after my op I had a fair bit of bruising but no discomfort or pain at all and the downtime was minimal, sutures were out within 5 days and I was back to work in 10 days albeit taking it easy. I had ice packs in the freezer to use on my eyes to reduce swelling and kept easy to prep meals in my fridge to make life easier whilst resting. Can honestly say it was a good experience from start to finish and the impact Rob’s surgery has made on me is amazing, forever grateful to him and his team for making it such a pleasurable experience.

April 2023

Manchester

From start to finish Rob has been amazing, very honest about what could be achieved (although I am astounded by my results.) After a 10 stone weight loss I had lots of loose skin. Rob recommended an FdL, also needed a hernia repair as well as brachioplasty. I cannot be happier with my results – thank you to Rob and his whole team you truly have changed my life, something I will be forever grateful for – I cannot recommend Rob highly enough.

June 2023

London

From first consultation with Rob I was made to feel at ease. He is extremely personable and I was comfortably able to ask lots of questions. I had an FdL abdominoplasty and branchioplasty after excess loose skin following a 10 stone weight loss. Rob was very honest and clear about the outcomes and managed my expectations. The aftercare is superb, and Rob was extremely responsive to any concerns I had pre and post surgery. I am absolutely thrilled with the results and cannot recommend Rob and his team highly enough. – thank you!

June 2023

Manchester

More Information

More Information

For more information about the procedure, as well as information regarding benefits & risks, how the procedure is performed and recovery, download the Patient Information form.

Download PDF

BAAPS Abdominoplasty Information Booklet

BAAPS Abdominoplasty Information Booklet

For more information about the procedure, as well as information regarding benefits & risks, how the procedure is performed and recovery, download the Patient Information form.

Download PDF

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