Tummy Tuck
A “tummy tuck” refers to the procedure called an “Abdominoplasty.” An abdominoplasty is an operation designed to remove excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen. It also is used to tighten the abdominal muscles which have become loose and weak with time.

An abdominoplasty is a great option for those individuals who have gained an excess of fat and loose skin in the abdomen which can not be treated with liposuction alone. Most patients are women who have had multiple children. In these cases, the muscles of the abdomen, which were weakened with pregnancy, can also be tightened. Many patients are also men who have had weight gain or weight fluctuations and would like to get rid of the excess skin and fat.

Techniques

Some patients may have relatively little excess skin and fat that may not be adequately treated by liposuction alone. In these cases, a “Mini” abdominoplasty may be a good option. In this procedure, less skin and fat is removed and less dissection is performed. The same incision for a “Full” abdominoplasty is used.

For those patients with a significant amount of skin and fat, a full abdominoplasty is needed. This operation also facilitates tightening of the abdominal muscles. Most patients seeking this operation would benefit from a full abdominoplasty.

The exact procedure for each individual is determined only after a full examination and consultation is completed.

Recovery

Patients are instructed to rest for the first 24 hours after surgery. Light walking is recommended as soon as possible. Most patients will engage in light activities after about 5 days.

Drains are used to help remove excess fluid from the site of surgery. These are usually removed after one week. A compressive abdominal binder is also worn during this time.

Most patients return to light chores and activities after a week and a half. Patients tend to return to full activities after approximately 3-4 weeks.

Results

This patient had an abdominoplasty done by another surgeon previously. She was unhappy with the result. As you can see in the “After” pictures, her result is significantly improved. Her abdomen appears more flat and smooth. The “belly button” (umbilicus) is very natural looking. Her contour and shape are excellent.

The patient below complained about the appearance of her abdomen. The muscles of her abdomen had been weakened because of pregnancy and childbirth. She also had excess skin and fat. The “After” pictures show an improved contour and reduced size of the abdomen. Notice also the natural looking appearance of her belly button.

The patient below is a typical patient who seeks an abdominoplasty. She is in her 30’s and has had 2 children. She exercises and eats healthy and is in good overall shape. However, most women who have had children have stretching of the skin and muscles during pregnancy that is almost impossible to correct with exercise and diet alone. An abdominoplasty is an excellent way to remove the extra skin and fat, as well as to tighten up the underlying muscles of the abdomen. As you can see in the “After” pictures, her abdomen is much flatter, smooth, and reduced in size compared to the appearance before surgery. Also, notice the improved and natural appearance of her “belly button” in the “After” picture. Note also the removal of the majority of her stretch marks. Lastly, all scars are designed so that they are well hidden within the patient’s underwear. The pictures were taken one month after surgery.

The patient below is a woman in her 40’s who requested an abdominoplasty. As you can see in the “After” pictures, she has a significantly improved abdominal contour. The excess skin and fat has been removed. Also, note the natural appearance of her “belly button.” The patient lives in another country and submitted these photos about 2 months after her surgery.

This is a patient who complained about the appearance of her abdomen. She had bulging of the lower abdomen and numerous stretch marks. As you can see in the “After” picture, her abdomen is flatter. Most of the stretch marks have been removed. Notice also how natural looking the belly button is.