Tummy Tuck
Tummy Tuck
A Tummy Tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to flatten and improve the appearance of the abdomen.
The procedure is useful for patients who have:
- Loose or excess abdominal skin.
- Laxity of the anterior abdominal wall muscles.
- Significant weight loss
- Had previous abdominal surgery or pregnancy.
The precise nature of the procedure will vary from patient to patient. Abdominoplasty generally includes the removal of excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen and tightening of the abdominal wall musculature. Some patients may benefit from more limited procedures such as a modified or mini-abdominoplasty or liposuction. All abdominoplasty surgery will leave a scar on the lower abdomen, which may extend from hip to hip and an additional scar around the umbilicus. Scars will fade with time. An abdominal binder or other support garment should be worn for the first 3 weeks postoperatively. Most patients require an additional 2 to 6 weeks for full recovery.
The operation may be performed:
- Under general anesthesia on an inpatient or outpatient basis.
- In approximately 3 hours.
If you are contemplating weight reduction, try to accomplish your goals prior to surgery. As a rule, this operation is best for women who are not planning any subsequent pregnancies.
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Related Resources
Abdominoplasty – American Society of Plastic Surgeons