Abdominoplasty

Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, removes excess fat and skin and, in most cases, restores weakened or separated muscles creating an abdominal profile that is smoother and firmer.

A flat and well-toned abdomen is something many of us strive for through exercise and weight control. Sometimes these methods cannot achieve our goals.

Even individuals of otherwise normal body weight and proportion can develop an abdomen that protrudes or is loose and sagging. The most common causes of this include:

Aging
Heredity
Pregnancy
Prior surgery
Significant fluctuations in weight

What tummy tuck surgery can't do:

A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss or an appropriate exercise program.

Although the results of a tummy tuck are technically permanent, the positive outcome can be greatly diminished by significant fluctuations in your weight. For this reason, individuals who are planning substantial weight loss or women who may be considering future pregnancies would be advised to postpone a tummy tuck.

A tummy tuck cannot correct stretch marks, although these may be removed or somewhat improved if they are located on the areas of excess skin that will be excised.

A tummy tuck is a highly individualized procedure. You should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else's desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image.

In general, you may be a good tummy tuck candidate if:

You are physically healthy and at a stable weight

You have realistic expectations

You are a nonsmoker

You are bothered by the appearance of your abdomen

During your consultation be prepared to discuss:

Your surgical goals

Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments

Current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drug use

Previous surgeries

Your tummy tuck Surgeon will also:

Evaluate your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors

Take photographs

Discuss your options

What are the steps of an abdominoplasty procedure?

A tummy tuck procedure includes the following steps:

Step 1 - Anesthesia

Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedures. The choices include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your Doctor will recommend the best choice for you.

Step 2 – The incision

A full tummy tuck requires a horizontally-oriented incision in the area between the pubic hairline and belly button.

The shape and length of the incision will be determined by the amount of excess skin. Once the abdominal skin is lifted, the underlying weakened abdominal muscles are repaired.

A second incision around the navel may be necessary to remove excess skin in the upper abdomen.

The upper abdominal skin is pulled down like a window shade. The excess skin is trimmed and the remaining skin is sutured together. A new opening for the belly button is created. The belly button is popped through to the surface and sutured into position.