Abdominoplasty, also commonly known as Tummy Tuck, is a surgical procedure to remove excess fat and loose skin from the abdominal area resulting in a flatter abdomen and a more attractive appearance. There are two types of Abdominoplasty surgery:
Complete Abdominoplasty: It involves, a long incision is made from hip bone to hip and another one to remove the belly button. Followed by removal of the excess skin, repairing the connecting abdominal muscles and contouring the remaining skin with sutures. A new hole is also created for your belly button. Also, a drainage tube is placed under the patient’s skin for a few days.
Partial Abdominoplasty: In this procedure, an incision is made from hip to hip for the removal of excess skin below the navel and it does not involve the removal of the belly button.
There can be various reasons for the presence of excess fat, loose skin, poor elasticity or weak connective muscles in the abdomen, a few most common ones are:
Some of the major factors influencing the cost of tummy tuck surgery are:
15
Total Days
In Country
2 No. Travelers
2 Day in Hospital
13 Days Outside Hospital
Treatment cost starts from
USD 7500
Hospitals
Abdominoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure that is popularly known as tummy tuck. This procedure is used to remove excess fat from the abdominal region and give a taut stomach to an individual who wished for it. Dietary changes and exercising is one way to keep the body sleek and taut. However, sometimes even exercising may not help reduce abdominal fat. Abdominoplasty is opted by individuals who are in dire need of losing abdominal fat. This surgery works by removing extra fat and by tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall.
A tummy tuck is not the same as liposuction, however, both the procedures can be conducted together. Abdominoplasty may seem like a simple procedure, however, it is a major surgery. Abdominoplasty should only be preferred by men and women who are in overall good health but need to tone loss excess fat from their abdomen. Women who have had given birth to several children can also opt for this procedure for the tightening of the abdominal muscles. Additionally, this procedure is also suitable for people who have lost a considerable amount of weight and now need to get rid of loose skin around their abdomen.
A tummy tuck is not suitable for the following people:
Both complete tummy tuck surgery and mini tummy tuck are conducted under the influence of general anesthesia. Before the surgeon cuts the abdomen of the patient, general anesthesia is administered to put the patient into a temporary sleep. This is done so that the patient does not feel any pain or discomfort during the surgery.
The following steps are performed once the patient is under the influence of general anesthesia:
You are likely to experience some pain and swelling after the surgery. The surgeon is most likely to prescribe a few medications to handle pain and other discomforts. You may experience the following discomforts:
You are likely to have a scar on your tummy even after years of the surgery. The surgeon may prescribe a few creams and ointments for scar healing but some of it will always be there in the future. Make sure to follow the guidelines given by the surgeon about managing the surgical wound. You will be given specific instructions on how to position yourself during sitting and sleeping so that you experience minimal discomfort. Avoid doing any strenuous activity for at least six weeks after the surgery.
Almost all individuals are happy with the final results after having a tummy tuck. It is important for them to maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise regimen to maintain the results.
The average cost of tummy tuck surgery in South Africa is around 4000 USD. Tummy tuck surgery or abdominoplasty is done to tighten the loose skin by removing any excess skin along with fat, resulting in a flat tummy. The results may differ from patient to patient, from men to women, and from one individual to another based on the size of the waist, health condition, subcutaneous fact, and elasticity of the skin. Therefore the cost also varies based on the case.
Even after diet and exercise many people still face the problem of a protruding belly which is a matter of concern in today's society. The solution to this problem is tummy tuck surgery which is often known as abdominoplasty. It involves the removal of skin and excess fat in and around the waist, thus enhancing the appearance of the belly. There are many factors that affect the tummy tuck surgery cost in South Africa :
The hospital opted for the surgery - Often practitioners in private clinics and hospitals charge more than government-aided hospitals.
The type of surgery opted for - More sophisticated and advanced surgeries cost higher than the ones done using regular instruments.
Duration of the procedure - It is approximately 3 hours.
The requirement of a translator- One can need a translator if you do not know the native language and it can significantly increase the charges.
Transportation- Transportation includes travel to and from South Africa including airfare.
Pre-operative requirements - Usually, the doctor prescribes medical investigations required to undergo the surgical procedure.
Post-operative care - This includes medication and stay in the hospital and treating of complications if any arise after the surgery.
The success rate of tummy tuck surgery in South Africa is around 85% however the percentage is usually higher if it is performed by board-certified plastic surgeons. This should be kept in mind that not every patient is suitable for abdominoplasty or plastic surgery. So do check your individual requirements with a surgeon. The ideal candidate for tummy tuck surgery is the one who is physically healthy, the one who has loose or droopy abdominal skin below the belly button and is committed to maintaining results with a stable diet and regular exercise.
Around the globe, South Africa is gaining popularity for medical tourism due to a variety of tummy tuck surgery options available, as well as the great quality of the medical care provided here. Here is a list of the top clinics which perform tummy tuck surgery in South Africa:
Ahmed Kathrada Private Hospital
UCT Private Academic Hospital
Netcare Linksfield Hospital
Netcare N1 City Hospital
The Sharp Cosmetic and Rejuvenation Clinic
Nanita Dalton Laser, Skin and Body Institute
Precision Aesthetics
Abdominoplasty is suitable if the individual has excess skin, too much fat, or lax muscles. This surgery will enhance the appearance of the belly, making the muscles tight. If one has undergone pregnancy prior to the surgery or if you have a Caesarian section scar with poor skin quality, stretch marks, and splitting of muscles (divarication), usually some form of abdominoplasty or tummy tuck is recommended. A tummy tuck is frequently combined with liposuction so as to optimize the final shape of the body. There are different approaches to a tummy tuck in South Africa :
Classic (traditional or full) tummy tuck - When there is muscle weakness along the full length of the abdomen (from breast bone to pubis) with a significant degree of excess skin then full tummy tuck surgery is done. In the traditional full abdominoplasty, an outsized area of tummy skin is undermined. All the skin and fat between the belly button and pubes is removed, the muscles are then tightened from breast bone to pubis, and eventually, the skin is closed, and the belly button is repositioned.
Mini tummy tuck with liposuction - Younger women who have excess tummy skin and spare fat will benefit more from liposuction. Other areas are often liposuctioned at an equivalent time, such as the thighs. The surgery is completed as a day case surgery (in and out on the same day). It can be done in a private facility. The anesthetist will administer the anesthesia and regional spinal anesthetic (similar to an epidural). This will be supplemented with local anesthesia. You will be asleep, pain-free, and unaware at the time of surgery and you'll have a fast recovery. Tummy tuck surgery takes about 3 hours. At the end of the surgery, the injuries are closed with dissolving sutures, surgical tape is placed over the cuts and a dressing is applied.
Here are some of the top plastic surgeons for tummy tuck surgery in South Africa -
Dr. Vive
Dr. Suleman Vadia
Dr. Filipe Padilha
Dr. Gideon Maresky
Dr. Susan F Johnson
Dr. Craig Peter Wittstock
Dr. Rory Dower
Dr. Clare Neser
Dr. Stuart Kenneth Meintjes
Dr. Johan Van Heerden
Dr. Paul McGarr
Dr. Ridwan Mia
Dr. Veneshree Nair
Dr. Ronel Gowar
Dr. Deon Weyers
Recovery after an abdominoplasty will majorly depend upon the extent of surgery. Generally, you will expect pain and sensitivity for 2 days during which you will remain within the hospital under observation. If any liposuction or body contouring was done during the surgery, you can expect some bruising in those areas. You will be encouraged to start walking soon after the surgery to aid in the healing process. Those who have undergone a partial abdominoplasty or mini-tummy tuck will have a significantly shorter recovery time and less pain after the surgery. The patients who have undergone a complete tummy tuck surgery may take nearly two to three weeks to heal and recover. Once discharged from the hospital, looking after your incisions is the best way to manage the healing process. Major workouts and the lifting of heavy objects should be avoided.
Here are some of the top cities in South Africa for the best medical treatment. You can undergo tummy tuck surgery in the following cities -
Johannesburg
Pretoria
Cape Town
Durban
Midrand
Gauteng
Sandton
Tongaat
The popular multispecialty hospital groups in South Africa are:
The performance of these hospitals have been evaluated on the below parameters:
Providing world-class treatment, the hospitals comply with strict healthcare laws and also adhere to medical protocols and international standards to ensure quality care. The patient-centric hospitals are equipped with superior infrastructure, high-tech medical equipment, and highly trained and qualified doctors, providing a unique patient experience.
The hospitals in South Africa receive accreditation from Joint Commission International (JCI) and Council for Health Service Accreditation of Southern Africa (COHSASA). To ensure that integrated and coordinated care is provided, COHSASA develops as well as measures standards in all areas and departments of a healthcare facility. The SafeCare program launched by COHSASA, JCI, and SafeCare Foundation ensures the implementation of internationally recognized standards to improve health care delivery. Initially, a two-year accreditation is awarded to hospitals and clinics that adhere to standards and the period can be extended if the hospitals continue to deliver expected quality care.
A large number of medical tourists visit South Africa every year due to low-cost treatment and modern infrastructure. South Africa has become the epicenter of medical tourism because of several other reasons like advanced technology, several facilities provided by hospitals, doctors trained abroad, and a large pool of accredited hospitals. In addition, South Africa’s liberal laws allow for the use of stem cells in medical practice, making it an invaluable destination for patients in need of advanced medical treatment. The hospitals in South Africa strive to take the stress out of your medical holiday by helping you with all kinds of organization and administrative tasks, as well as provide all-inclusive care and assistance on a 24/7 basis.
The doctors in South Africa strive to provide quality treatment utilizing their deep subject knowledge and hands-on experience in handling various complex cases. Many doctors in South Africa receive their training in foreign countries like Australia and Cuba which provide them global exposure and make them more competent in handling cases with high precision and accuracy. The doctors deliver great results in dental procedures and fertility treatments and provide complete patient satisfaction through a holistic approach. Some important factors which contribute to the production of good quality doctors in the country are education at premier colleges, adherence to global standards, patient-centric approach, and incorporation of the human touch in treatment.
You can avail a medical visa to South Africa and stay in the country for 90 days to seek treatment. Further extension of the duration of the stay is decided by the High Commission of the country where the patient belongs from. People who require medical treatment for longer than three months must apply for a temporary residency permit. A visa becomes valid the day it is issued by the High Commission and not on the date of departure. Also, an application for a visa is not be accepted more than 30 days before departure. Below documents are required for applying for a medical visa:
Some popular procedures available in South Africa are hip replacement, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, total knee replacement, meniscus repairs. Some other procedures which have gained popularity in South Africa are cosmetic surgery and infertility treatment. Egg donation program is available in South Africa and it is even possible to select your donor, as well as gives you the option of having a surgical or non-surgical procedure, all with very low waiting times. People select South Africa to avail these procedures due to several reasons, such as world-class hospitals with superior infrastructure and highly-skilled doctors, fast recovery, and use of cutting-edge medical technology.
Top destinations for medical tourism in South Africa are Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Durban. Cape Town a major tourist attraction that has a rich culture, world-class doctors, and modern health facilities. An efficient public transportation system, affordable accommodation, connectivity through airlines, and a wide range of food options are some of the reasons for the popularity of these cities among medical tourists. Healthcare in Johannesburg is similar to Great Britain’s health care, and the city’s public and private healthcare sectors work hand in hand with South Africa's medical schools to create internationally recognized medical specialists.
Yes, you need to get vaccinated before travelling to South Africa. WHO and the National Travel Health Network and Centre have suggested the following vaccinations: Yellow fever, hepatitis A, rabies and tetanus, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera. Infants of age 6 to 11 months should get a single dose of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before they travel to South Africa. You need to go for typhoid vaccination if you are going to stay with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas. You need to keep yourself updated with vaccination guidelines issued by the government. Also, check with the doctor, the government authority, or hospitals in South Africa as to what vaccination should be taken.
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