Tummy Tuck: Abdominoplasty

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a major cosmetic surgical procedure that tightens the abdominal muscles and gets rid of excess skin and fat. Both men and women alike can benefit from this procedure. However, certain conditions differentiate between ideal candidates and other patients who should consider alternative options.

After pregnancy, many women consider plastic surgery. Even after all the dieting and exercise, mothers find it difficult to bounce back to their pre-pregnancy bodies due to stretching. Men and women who experience massive weight loss may consider a tummy tuck as well. Abdominoplasty is necessary in order to tighten up the abdominal muscles and be free of the loose saggy skin and stretch marks. Since every woman’s body is unique and different, tummy tucks may be personalized to fit each individuals needs. For instance, a mini, regular, or extended tummy tuck may be more beneficial for a specific candidate to achieve a new and improved look.

A mini tummy tuck is a less invasive procedure for patients who have fullness in only the lower abdomen area and do not require surgery above the belly button area. The incision is much smaller and the belly button is either left in place or repositioned using other less invasive techniques. Muscle repair and tissue removal is minimal.

Abdominoplasty is performed under general anesthesia. A regular tummy tuck involves an incision from hip bone to hip bone. Plastic surgeons try their best to keep the incision low and hidden underneath undergarments. A second incision is made around the belly button to detach it from the abdominal tissue. The skin is separated from the abdominal wall revealing the stretched abdominal muscles. The abdominal rectus muscles are then stitched into a new tightened positioned to give the patient a smaller more contoured waistline. The excess skin and tissue is then removed allowing room for the better quality skin to be brought down over the abdominal area and sutured in place. The belly button is then carefully placed in its new location.

An extended tummy tuck procedure is similar to a regular tummy tuck, except for the fact that the incision line is further extended. This allows removal of more excess skin and tissue from around the waistline. It is often an effective treatment for patients who would like to improve their figures following massive weight loss. This invasive procedure is more ideal for patients who have a significant amount of excess fat and skin in the hip, flank, and lower back region.

Individuals interested in abdominoplasty surgery should consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will be able to let you know whether you are a good candidate for the procedure and discuss options for your individual needs. Once you have chosen a board certified surgeon and scheduled the surgery date, patients will be given a list of pre-operative and post-operative instructions. Patients must follow the instructions given to them to avoid any complications in surgery and after surgery.

Depending on the severity or complexity of the case, the procedure may take approximately 3-5 hours to complete. Markings are performed either the night before surgery or the morning of surgery at the hospital or surgery center. Care is taken to give the ultimate result you want to be achieved. A pain pump and drains are involved for the next couple days to ensure a safe recovery. Patient’s are placed in a binder to help provide support and protection of the incision. There are no sutures to be removed. Internal sutures will dissolve with time and a surgical glue, called Dermabond, is used to keep the incision in tact. Steri strips are placed over the incision as well to keep the incision sterile.

As soon as surgery is complete, patient will stay in the recovery room. Then the patient is taken home to rest in bed for 2-3 days. A patient may need a nurse’s assistant for the first night. Since some patients do choose to get multiple procedures done, like the “mommy makeover,” it is safer to have a quality nurse stay over at least the first night. Bed rest is essential the first couple days to ensure a nice result.

Recovery can take up to 4 weeks. During the 4 weeks, patients are instructed to stay “hunched over” to avoid any tension on the incision. Otherwise, superficial openings and other complications may result. Renting a walker or cane may help to remind the patient to stay hunched and can help with back pains. At the one month mark, patient’s are able to start straightening up and do are not required to wear the binder. Patient’s may resume to normal physical activities like driving in approximately 2-4 weeks.

Good candidates for abdominoplasty have realistic expectations. Results of a tummy tuck can help improve the appearance and contour of the body and also enhances your self-image. However, it does require maintenance. Patients who undergo this procedure do tend to stay motivated and keep a healthy lifestyle to maintain their new look.

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