A "Tummy Tuck" (abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure designed to flatten a protruding abdomen by tightening the muscles in the abdominal wall and removing excess fatty tissue and skin. The procedure is a common one and can benefit men and women who have excess abdominal skin and who are not good candidates for liposuction.
Keep in mind that while a tummy tuck will enhance your figure and your self-confidence, it's not likely to change your life or the way people treat you.
Your Consultation
During your private consultation with our staff, you should explain your goals and expectations of the surgery. Your surgeon will assess the nature of your abdomen, your expectations, and explain the probable outcome of your procedure.
The Procedure
There are three basic techniques used to flatten a protuberant abdomen. The best technique for you will depend largely on your goals and your specific problem. Liposuction alone can produce a thin abdominal wall for some.
If your laxity and excess skin is below your navel, a mini tummy tuck may be right for you. For those with severe laxity of their abdominal muscle or excessive skin, a full tummy tuck may be their only solution.
A tummy tuck is usually performed on an out-patient basis under general anesthesia with the patient asleep, or with spinal anesthesia.
A full tummy tuck involves an incision around the belly button and another incision that runs from hip to hip. Your entire abdominal wall is tightened with permanent sutures, and the excess skin and fat is removed.
A mini tummy tuck is usually performed in conjunction with liposuction of the upper abdomen and the flank areas. With a mini tummy tuck, a smaller incision is made in your bikini area and no incision is made around your belly button. Your surgeon will remove your excess skin and fat through this incision. Permanent sutures will also be placed through this incision to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall.
Regardless of which procedure you have, your incisions are closed with small sutures. Small drains may also be inserted to eliminate fluid buildup. Snug elastic bandages are then applied to the area.
Recovery
After your tummy tuck, bed rest is recommended for the first day. Most patients experience some numbness in the area of their abdomen, which may last as long as a year. Any pain or discomfort that follows surgery can be controlled with oral medication. If drains are used, they may remain in place for 3 - 7 days until discharge fluids decrease. Sutures will be removed in 1 - 2 weeks, however, your bandages may remain a little longer. A special abdominal support garment is often necessary for several weeks. There will be some scarring that will fade significantly over time.
During your recovery, you must refrain from any strenuous activity or lifting. Most patients are back to work within 1 - 3 weeks, depending on the degree of surgery. Your surgeon will decide when you can resume normal activities.
Expected Results
Results can be quite dramatic, and patients love their slimmer, trimmer figures and flatter abdomens!
