Procedure: Abdominoplasty |
Purpose: To flatten the stomach area, remove excess skin and fat, tighten abdominal muscles. Surgery Length: 2 -4 hours depending on extent. Anesthesia: General Anesthesia. Where: Outpatient. Where: Doctor's surgical facility, outpatient, surgery center or as an inpatient in a hospital. Recovery: Back to work 1-2 weeks; avoid strenuous activity for 3 - 4 weeks. Patients wear a light support garment for few weeks. Risks: Scarring, temporary swelling, infection, bleeding, blood clots, poor healing.
Abdominoplasty is the surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the tummy and tightens abdominal muscles. Candidates who elect this procedure are most often women who, after childbearing, have weak abdominal muscles and excess fat which does not seem to respond to diet or exercise. It is also common for men who wish to tighten muscles and remove fat from the middle and lower abdomen. Older patients who often experience weight gain as they age, especially around the abdomen, can also benefit from this procedure. For all patients, men and women alike, this procedure can dramatically reduce a large, protruding abdomen If you're considering an abdominoplasty, it is important to remember that this procedure requires extensive surgery and will produce a permanent scar which can be hidden in the bikini line. The procedure usually takes two to four hours and is performed under general anesthesia. It requires the surgeon to make a long incision from hip to hip in order to create a skin flap and reveal the abdominal muscles. The muscles are then tightened, excess fat removed and the belly button repositioned. The result is a firmer tummy and more narrow waistline. After surgery the abdomen will be swollen and patients will experience some discomfort. Post-operative complications such as infection, poor healing, swelling, and blood clotting are rare, but can occur. For some patients, endoscopic techniques and liposuction may provide an option eliminating the need for major surgery. In all cases, a consultation with the surgeon will help you decide what procedure is best for you. | 
