Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a "tummy tuck," is a major surgical procedure to remove excess sagging skin and fat from the middle and lower abdominal area, also to tighten the muscles of the abdomen wall. The procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen.

Abdominoplasty does produce a permanent scar. The amount of scaring depends on the extent of the problem area. The scar can extend from hip to hip. Remember that the results of any procedure depend on the individual patient and the surgeon. If you are considering a tummy tuck, please make sure you have a proper consultation with your surgeon first, so that you are aware of the varying factors involved, and be sure to ask her about anything you do not understand.

The best candidates for a tummy tuck are patients who are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose sagging skin of the abdomen that will not respond to diet or exercise. The surgery is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved. Women who plan future pregnancies should wait, as vertical muscles in the abdomen that are tightened during surgery can separate again during pregnancy. If you have scarring from previous abdominal surgery, your doctor may recommend against a tummy tuck or may caution you that scars could be unusually more visible. After surgery, the patient has a flatter, trimmer abdomen. Scars are permanent, but will fade with time.

Abdominoplasty, whether partial or complete, produces excellent results for patients with weakened abdominal muscles or excess skin. In addition, in most cases the results are long lasting if you follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly. If you are realistic in your expectations and prepared for the consequences of a permanent scar and a lengthy recovery period, Abdominoplasty may be just the answer for you.

Tummy Tuck

Quick Facts*

Procedure: Flatten abdomen by removing excess fat and sagging skin and tightening muscles of abdominal wall.

Length: 2 to 5 hours. [Depending on the Surgeon]

Anesthesia: General, or local with sedation.

In/Outpatient: Either depending on individual circumstances and extent of surgery.

Side Effects: Temporary pain. Swelling, soreness, numbness of abdominal skin, bruising, tiredness for several weeks or months.

Risks: Blood clots. Infection. Bleeding under the skin flap. Poor healing resulting in conspicuous scarring or skin loss. Need for a second operation.

Recovery: Back to work: 2 to 4 weeks. More strenuous activity: 4 to 6 weeks or more. Fading and flattening of scars: 3 months to 2 years.

*From The American Society of Plastic Surgeons www.plasticsurgery.org