Tummy Tuck

Sometimes after multiple pregnancies or large weight loss, abdominal muscles weaken and skin in the area becomes flacid.

Abdominoplasty can tighten the abdominal muscles and, in some instances, improve stretch marks.  In patients who are otherwise of relatively normal weight, the procedure will remove excess skin and fat.  The surgery will not take the place of dieting, but it can improve a loss of skin elasticity in combination with slight obesity in individuals.

For this operation, you will stay one night in the hospital for observation.  The incision will be a low abdominal incision that goes from hip to hip.  The surgeon brings loose undrelying tissue and muscle together.  The abdominal skin is then drawn downward and the excess skin is removed.  A small opening is made to bring the umbilicus through.  The precedure may sometimes be performed in combination with suction lipectomy to reduce areas of fat accumulation that may not be improved by the abdominoplasty alone.

As a result of the surgery, you will have a firmer, flatter abdomen and a narrower waist.  You will be advised to wear a light support garment for a few weeks and restricted against strenuous activities for a few weeks.