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Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a
“tummy tuck”, is a major surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat
from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal
wall. The procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding
abdomen. But bear in mind, it does produce a permanent scar-which, depending on
the extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it, can
extend from hip to hip.
The best candidates for abdominoplasty are men and women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that won’t respond to diet or exercise. The surgery is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved. Many surgeons perform both partial and complete abdominoplasties in an outpatient surgical center or an office-based facility. Your doctor may select general anesthesia, so you’ll sleep through the operation. 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. And 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, and deeper sutures, with ends that protrude through the skin, will come out in two to three weeks. It may take you weeks or months to feel like your old self again. Exercise will help you heal better. Abdominoplasty, whether partial or complete, produces excellent results for patients with weakened abdominal muscles or excess skin. And in most cases, the results are long lasting, if you follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly.
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