* PRICES MAY VARY BY CASE
Endoscopic Lipoabdominoplasty (ELAP) is a novel surgical technique that combines liposuction and abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) with minimal incisions and endoscopic assistance. It is designed to improve the appearance and function of the abdominal wall by removing excess fat and skin, and repairing the muscle separation or hernia.
ELAP procedure usually takes about three to four hours and is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes three small incisions in the lower abdomen, each about one centimeter long. Through these incisions, the surgeon inserts an endoscope (a thin tube with a camera and light) and special instruments to perform liposuction and muscle repair. The endoscope allows the surgeon to see the inside of the abdominal wall and avoid damaging the nerves and blood vessels. The surgeon removes the excess fat from the abdomen and flanks, and then tightens the abdominal muscles with stitches. The surgeon also repositions the navel lower on the abdomen, without making a new hole for it. The surgeon closes the incisions with stitches and applies a dressing and a compression garment.
The recovery time for ELAP varies depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. Generally, the patient can expect to have some pain, swelling, bruising, and numbness for the first few days. The patient should avoid any strenuous activity and follow the surgeon’s instructions for wound care and medication. The patient should also wear the compression garment for about six weeks to support the abdomen and reduce swelling. The patient may have drainage tubes inserted under the skin to remove any fluid or blood, which are usually removed within a week. The stitches are removed after two weeks. The patient may return to work after two to four weeks, depending on the nature of the job. The final results of the procedure may take up to six months to appear, as the swelling subsides and the scars fade.
ELAP is suitable for people who want to improve the shape and appearance of their abdomen, but have enough fat in other areas of the body to harvest. The patient should also be in good health, have realistic expectations, and be at a stable weight. ELAP is not recommended for people who have very little fat, have chronic conditions that affect healing, or are allergic to anesthesia.
At Ciplastic, the starting cost for an Endoscopic Lipoabdominoplasty (ELAP) procedure is $7,400 usd. Your final cost will depend on your specific individual needs.
ELAP is generally considered a safe procedure, but like any surgery, it carries some risks and potential complications. These include infection, bleeding, scarring, asymmetry, fat necrosis, fat embolism, nerve damage, and dissatisfaction with the outcome. To minimize these risks, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon, follow the pre-operative and post-operative instructions, and report any signs of problems to the doctor.
ELAP is designed to last for a long time, as the fat cells that are transferred to the abdomen are permanent. However, some of the fat may be reabsorbed by the body over time, reducing the volume and shape of the abdomen. This can be affected by factors such as weight fluctuations, aging, lifestyle, and genetics. To maintain the results of ELAP, the patient should avoid significant weight loss or gain, exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, and avoid smoking.