Abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR)

Need to know

• What happens icon plus

  Depending on your individual situation, your treatment may only require one operation, although sometimes it may be necessary to have more, with recovery periods in-between.
  
  Surgery involves removing the damaged tissue and reconstructing the abdominal wall with healthy tissues. The following plastic surgical techniques may be used:
  

  • the creation of flaps of tissue
  • skin grafts
  • mesh implants may be used to strengthen weaker areas, and where muscle has been lost

  
  Your consultant will determine your treatment on a case by case basis, depending on what’s most appropriate for you.

• How to prepare icon plus

  Your consultant will explain the process of AWR to you and answer any questions you might have. Operations may involve both a general surgery specialist and a plastic surgeon who operate together on the abdominal contents, abdominal muscles and the overlying soft tissues.
  
  As with any surgery, there are some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.
  
  The treatment is usually carried while you’re asleep under general anaesthetic. We will let you know in advance how long to avoid eating and drinking before your surgery.

• Afterwards icon plus

  After the procedure, you will be taken to the recovery area, where our dedicated team will look after you.
  
  After the operation you may experience some pain or discomfort, depending on the type and extent of the surgery you have had. You’ll be given pain relief medication if you need it and we may offer you some pain-relieving medication to take home. The nurses looking after you will tell you how often and when to take them.
  
  You will require some time off work to recover - again this is dependent upon the type of surgery you have had, and your consultant will discuss this with you during your consultation.