Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a very common cosmetic operation performed by our office staff.  Often many factors lead to the development of loose abdominal skin, such as major weight loss, multiple pregnancies, and even genetic predispositions. These loose areas may persist despite proper diet and exercise, and they can make the abdomen appear disproportionate with the rest of the body.  Abdominoplasty surgery can be divided into two categories:  full abdominoplasty and mini-abdominoplasty.

A full abdominoplasty usually involves removing the loose skin and fatty deposits from the level of the umbilicus (belly-button) to the pubic region, as well as tightening the vertical muscles of the abdomen (rectus abdominus fascial plication.)  This will give the abdomen a firmer look and feel and often remove the area of the abdominal skin that is affected by stretch marks.

A partial or mini-abdominoplasty typically requires only a single incision, and the area of dissection is not as extensive as in a full abdominoplasty.  This is because during a mini tummy tuck procedure, the position of the navel is not moved (translocated). This procedure is designed for patients who have less extensive looseness to the abdominal wall. While it can be used to tighten the lower abdominal region quite well, it is not very effective for tightening looseness to the upper abdominal region.  Although the incision is usually shorter than the incision made during a full tummy tuck, its length and shape will depend on the extent of treatment as well as the contours of your body.

An abdominoplasty can be performed alone, but is often performed with liposuction to further improve body contouring.   It should not be considered as a treatment for obesity.  Future pregnancies and substantial changes in weight following a tummy tuck, as well as the presence of scars from prior surgeries may decrease the effectiveness and longevity of treatment.

It is important to realize that there will be a permanent scar from abdominoplasty surgery.  With a mini-abdominoplasty, the incision is usually in the area just above the pubic hair line, somewhat longer than a c-section type incision.   With a full abdominoplasty, the incision is substantially longer and often spans from hip to hip, and there is usually a second scar around the outer edge of the belly-button.

In order to prevent fluid build up as you heal, drainage tubes will likely be placed in the abdominal soft tissues, and will remain in place for approximately two to three weeks. The incisions will be sutured and dressings and bandages will need to be changed daily.

After surgery most patients will be instructed to wear for several weeks a compression garment, which is similar to a girdle. This tight-fitting garment will help to reduce swelling by preventing fluid build up, as well as provide comfort and support as you heal.  As with any major surgical procedure, you will likely experience pain, bruising, and swelling, most of which will subside in a few weeks. While you may not be able to stand fully upright, it is important that you begin to walk for short periods soon after your procedure to facilitate blood flow. Your stitches will generally dissolve with time. However if non-dissolving stitches are utilized, they are usually removed in 7-10 days.Most patients are able to return to work in one to three weeks. 

However, it may take six to eight weeks before you feel able to return to full normal activity including heavy lifting and strenuous exercise. Although you will have a permanent scar, it will slowly fade over time. It is important to realize that if you become pregnant or experience substantial weight gain or loss, the results from your procedure may be compromised. However, with proper diet and exercise, the results from a tummy tuck can be maintained for several years.