An abdominoplasty (or tummy tuck) corrects the significant impact pregnancy and weight loss can have on your abdomen. This cosmetic procedure involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdomen and the tightening of the underlying abdominal muscles. It also allows for the possible elimination of stretch marks, especially if they are located in the lower part of the abdomen. If required, liposuction of the waist may be performed at the same time for a more contoured waistline. The result is a flatter, firmer abdominal shape.
Candidates
The best candidates for surgery are women and men in good health and with reasonable expectations. An abdominoplasty can address one or more of the following conditions:
- Excess or sagging abdominal skin
- A protruding or ill-proportioned abdomen
- Abdominal muscles weakened by pregnancy
- Loss of definition of the belly button
- Excess fat that is concentrated in the abdomen
Surgery
Depending upon the amount of excess skin and fat and its location on the abdomen, there are several approaches to this surgery.
The standard abdominoplasty incision is placed just within or above the pubic area and extends laterally towards the pelvic bones. The length of the scar depends upon the amount of excess skin in need of removal. A second incision may be made around the navel, allowing the excess skin to be pulled downward. Although the navel maintains its position, its appearance will be improved by removal of the excess skin around it. In cases where there is minimal skin excess and a protuberant lower abdomen, the incision can be kept within the pubic area only. Every effort is taken to try to keep the scar within your bathing suit lines.
The decision of which technique is best for you depends upon your expectations and physical examination. Dr. Brown will discuss these issues with you in detail at the time of your consultation.
Abdominoplasty surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and often on an outpatient basis, though many patients choose to spend one night in hospital or at the clinic. Most patients are back to normal daily activities within two weeks, but are asked to avoid heavy physical activity and heavy lifting for 6 weeks.
Risks and Complications
Although most patients undergo abdominoplasty with very few complications, it is important for you to be well informed of the risks and potential benefits. These issues will be discussed with you in detail at your initial consultation. Patients can maximize their chances of a successful result by following their pre- and post-operative instructions, eating well and refraining from smoking.
40-year old woman before and 18 months after tummy tuck to remove excess skin and stretch marks, tighten abdominal muscles and repair umbillicus.
35 year old woman after two children. Before and 6 months after standard abdominoplasty.