Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

The abdomen often fails to return to its original shape after pregnancy or weight gain and fails to respond to exercise or diet programs. In these cases, tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) can provide a long-term solution. A frequently performed procedure used to tighten overly stretched abdominal muscles and skin for a smoother, flatter appearance, a tummy tuck flattens your abdomen by removing extra fat and skin, and tightening muscles in your abdominal wall. This is a major surgery, and should be the last resort for people who have exhausted all other measures, and the procedure should not be used as an alternative to weight loss. Patients who intend to lose a lot of weight should postpone the surgery. Also, women who plan future pregnancies should wait, as vertical muscles in the abdomen that are tightened during surgery can separate again during pregnancy.

If your only problem area is below the belly button, you may benefit from a less complex procedure called a partial abdominoplasty or partial tummy tuck, which can often be performed on an outpatient basis. Dr. Stein may recommend either a partial or complete abdominoplasty done in conjunction with liposuction to remove fat deposits from the hips, for a better body contour. Sometimes liposuction alone offers the best results.

Complete abdominoplasty usually takes two to five hours, depending on the extent of work required. Partial abdominoplasty may take an hour or two. In the full tummy tuck, an incision is made across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. Another incision is made around the belly button to free the surrounding skin, and the all of the skin is separated from the abdominal wall. Then the surgeon pulls the loose muscles from the left and the right sides and sutures them together. This tightens the muscles to create a stronger abdominal wall and a smaller waist. Excess skin is removed, and a new opening is made for the belly button at the right position. The incisions are closed with sutures (stitches) and/or staples, and gauze is placed over the incision area.

Abdominoplasty can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, greatly improving body contour.

After a Tummy Tuck

For the first few days, your abdomen will probably be swollen and you're likely to feel some pain and discomfort which can be controlled by medication. The surgery usually requires an overnight stay in the ambulatory unit of the hospital. Though you may not be able to stand straight at first, you should start walking as soon as possible. Surface stitches will be removed in five to seven days. Most people return to work in 10 days to two weeks depending on the work you do.

Exercise will help you heal better. If you've never exercised before, you should begin an exercise program to reduce swelling, lower the chance of blood clots, and tone muscles. Vigorous exercise should be avoided until you can do it comfortably. It takes nine months to a year before scars flatten out and lighten in color. Scarring is permanent, but will not show under most clothing, even under bathing suits.