Abdominoplasty
is commonly known as a "tummy tuck" and removes both fat and
skin from the lower abdomen. This procedure typically involves tightening
the underlying muscles of the abdominal wall as well. This body contouring
procedure can dramatically improve the way a protruding abdomen looks
and is most commonly performed in women after childbearing years. It
is important to realize, however, that like many other body contouring
procedures the patient trades a scar for improved contour.
The best candidates for abdominoplasty are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by centralized fat deposits and loose abdominal skin. Typically there is a component of loosened or stretched abdominal wall and excess fat and skin and all of these can be addressed with this operation. Patients often need a full abdominoplasty but more limited versions of the procedure can be performed when only a small amount of fat and skin need to be removed.
Abdominoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia. Depending upon the extent of the procedure, patients may go home the same day or may spend a day or two in the hospital. Patients who have a full abdominoplasty generally take 4-6 weeks to feel totally normal.
A downloadable (Adobe pdf) brochure on Abdominoplasty can be obtained by clicking here.
