It is a surgical procedure that removes excess tissue from the lower abdomen, often resulting from pregnancy, excessive weight gain, or subsequent significant weight loss.
What causes apron belly?
An apron belly, medically known as “pannus abdominalus,” occurs when excess skin and fatty tissue sag in the lower abdomen. This condition, which can be both aesthetically and healthily uncomfortable, has multiple causes.
Weight fluctuations (Obesity)
Rapid weight gain and loss is one of the most significant factors that strain skin elasticity. While skin stretches during weight gain, sudden weight loss may not fully return to its original shape, resulting in sagging. Obesity can also lead to excess fat accumulation in the abdominal area, resulting in the formation of a large apron belly.
Pregnancy
The abdominal wall expands beyond its natural capacity during pregnancy. While some people’s skin recovers easily after birth, others may remain saggy and loose. For this reason, it is also commonly known as the “mommy apron.”
Genetic factors
Everyone’s body type and skin elasticity are different. Some people are genetically predisposed to storing fat in the lower abdomen. Genetic factors also determine how well skin can recover after weight loss or pregnancy.
Lifestyle habits
A sedentary lifestyle, an unbalanced diet, and hormonal changes can weaken the abdominal muscles, making sagging in this area more noticeable. Lack of regular exercise can lead to the muscles supporting the abdominal area not functioning properly.
Benefits of apron belly
Apron belly provides significant benefits not only from an aesthetic perspective but also in terms of physical comfort. Here are some important benefits offered by apron belly surgery:
- This surgical procedure removes excess skin from the lower abdomen, resulting in a flatter and firmer abdominal appearance, boosting self-confidence and significantly improving quality of life.
- Loose abdominal skin can cause friction and create hygiene issues. Apron belly reduces friction and prevents skin problems by removing this excess skin.
- Apronectomy surgery increases mobility by removing excess skin in the abdominal area, making exercise and daily activities more comfortable.
Who is suitable for apron belly surgery?
An apron belly is a condition that can cause both physical and psychological discomfort. However, not every patient is considered suitable for this surgical procedure.
- General health: The individual must be in good physical and mental health before the apron belly surgery. The absence of uncontrolled chronic diseases and suitability for general anesthesia are the main criteria for being a candidate.
- Weight and body mass index (BMI): Sudden weight changes or a recent pregnancy may prevent the appropriate timing for surgery. Therefore, it is important for the individual to have achieved a stable weight and maintained it for at least 6–12 months. Furthermore, a BMI of less than 30 is generally expected to be considered suitable for apronectomy surgery.
- Expectations: People who experience physical difficulties or feel a loss of self-confidence due to excess skin in the abdominal area may consider this surgery. However, the surgeon will assess the patient’s concerns and expectations and clearly explain the potential outcomes.
During the preoperative examination, the extent of loose skin and any discomfort it causes are assessed. The surgeon determines the patient’s readiness for surgery based on their lifestyle and health status.
How to get rid of an apron belly?
Many people seek ways to get rid of a pannus, both for aesthetic reasons and to improve their quality of life.
It’s not possible to instantly remove a pannus with a single method. Overall weight control, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can help reduce body fat. However, this sagging in the lower abdominal area often doesn’t disappear completely with lifestyle changes alone.
The only way to prevent this is to seek surgical and non-surgical treatment.
Non-surgical treatment options for your apron belly
Non-surgical apron belly techniques help slim down the belly area by targeting small fat deposits. These procedures are not a weight-loss method, but rather are specifically designed to contour the lower abdomen. They can be especially effective on pockets of fat that persist despite diet and exercise.
The devices used use low temperature, radiofrequency, laser, or ultrasound waves to break down fat cells. This reduces fat tissue and, in some cases, can even result in skin tightening. CoolSculpting (fat freezing) and laser-based treatments are among the most popular options.
However, these procedures are not suitable for everyone. They are not recommended for those who are breastfeeding or obese. Furthermore, non-surgical methods alone may not be sufficient for a noticeably sagging belly flab.
In conclusion, non-invasive treatments can offer safe and practical solutions for those seeking to reduce belly flab. The most appropriate method for you should be determined after a professional evaluation.
Surgical treatments for an apron belly
An apron belly isn’t just an aesthetic issue; it can also lead to problems like limited movement, skin irritation, and a loss of self-confidence. Diet, exercise, or non-surgical aesthetic procedures may not always be sufficient. In this case, surgical methods can offer a permanent solution. So, which surgeries stand out?
Abdominoplasty
A tummy tuck surgery involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and tightening the abdominal muscles. This not only achieves a flatter abdomen but also repairs muscle separation and sagging skin caused by pregnancy or rapid weight gain. It’s usually performed under general anesthesia and requires 2–3 weeks of recovery. Full results are seen within a few months.
Brazilian tummy tuck
Similar to a traditional tummy tuck, it also includes liposuction. This sculpts the abdomen and slims the body.
Apronectomy (Panniculectomy)
An apronectomy focuses solely on removing the excess skin and fat that make up the abdominal apron. Because it doesn’t involve the muscles, it’s a simpler procedure than abdominoplasty. It’s particularly preferred for sagging after significant weight loss. Recovery can take up to 4–6 weeks.
What to do before apron belly surgery
Before an apron belly surgery, there are many stages from counselling processes to preparation. During the initial consultation, you will discuss the details of the surgery, your goals, and your expectations with your surgeon. After deciding on surgery, you will be asked to quit smoking, including e-cigarettes, and reduce alcohol consumption 5-6 weeks before the procedure. Doing these things will help speed up your recovery.
Additionally, because there is a possibility of bleeding or complications, you should be careful not to take certain anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin before the apron tummy tuck. On the day of surgery, final checks will be performed before the procedure, which will be done under general anaesthesia, and you will be informed about the recovery process. Recovery after surgery is generally rapid, and our expert team will provide you with continuous support.
Recovery process after apronectomy surgery
Apronectomy surgery is an effective surgical procedure performed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. The recovery process after surgery is quick and comfortable for most patients. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some important points to be aware of regarding the recovery process. Here’s what you need to know about recovery after an apronectomy:
First 24 hours: Mobility and hygiene
Within 24 hours after surgery, you can get up and start walking with your doctor’s approval. You can take a normal shower within 3 days. During this time, following your surgeon’s recommended care instructions will speed up your recovery process.
1-Week checkup: Monitoring the recovery process
One week after your surgery, you will have an appointment with your nurse to remove your stitches and evaluate your incisions. During this time, you can reach our nurses 24/7 to monitor your recovery and answer any questions you may have. You will also receive detailed information on what to pay attention to when dressing your wounds at home.
Weeks 4-6: Complete recovery and evaluation of results
The recovery process generally accelerates within 2-3 weeks, with bruising and swelling subsiding. However, it may take 4-6 weeks for complete recovery and for the surgical results to become clear. After six weeks, schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to review the results of your surgery.
Additional needs and support
At the end of your recovery process, a personalized care plan will be completed for you. However, if you have any further questions or concerns, you can consult one of our specialist nurses and receive professional support
Apron belly surgery cost Turkey
Apron belly surgery cost in Istanbul, Turkey may vary depending on the extent of the procedure, the surgeon’s experience, and the scope of post-operative care. For more information, please contact Maya Medical. The health risks of an apron belly.
Conclusion
An apron belly (abdominal pannus) is a condition caused by the accumulation of excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen. It often develops after pregnancy, obesity, or rapid weight loss. This condition not only causes physical discomfort but can also lead to emotional distress, skin problems, and even restrict mobility.
There’s no definitive diet or exercise plan that will eliminate a belly button, but general weight loss and appropriate care techniques can help. Treatment options include diet, exercise, laser therapy, and surgery. However, nonsurgical methods may not offer a definitive solution. Many people resort to surgery to address this issue.
If you’d like to learn how to get rid of your belly button or seek professional guidance on slimming and tightening your belly button, contact Maya Medical. Our experienced team will provide a personalized plan to help you achieve renewed confidence and a body you can wear comfortably.
