Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a procedure designed to address loose abdominal skin and fat, as well as to tighten the underlying abdominal muscles. You are potentially a candidate for this procedure if you have lost weight, resulting in loose abdominal skin and fat. Women are frequently a candidate after pregnancy.
General information:
Purpose: To remove excess hanging skin and fat and tighten the abdominal muscles, resulting in a flatter, firmer abdomen
Types of abdominoplasty
mini - addresses the abdomen below the umbilicus, and is frequently combined with liposuction above the umbilicus
full - addresses the entire abdomen, from the sternum (breast bone) down to the pubis
Incision: Abdominoplasty incisions are placed near the pubis (below the bikini line), with the length of the incision depending on the amount of skin that needs to be removed
Length of surgery: 2 1/2 - 4 hours (mini - outpatient, full either outpatient or an overnight hospital stay)
Anesthesia: General
Recovery: Most activities can be resumed within a few weeks, while strenuous exercise will take longer, and will depend upon the extent of the procedure.
