Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
“Tummy tuck,” or abdominoplasty, is designed to correct a protruding abdomen resulting from weak abdominal muscles, weight gain or pregnancy. A flat stomach may be elusive despite diet and exercise, especially if the skin and underlying muscles have been stretched.
With abdominoplasty, the abdominal wall muscles are tightened and excess fatty tissue and skin are removed to improve the body contour. The goal is a narrower, flatter abdomen. Stretch marks from pregnancy are typically removed with abdominoplasty. Realistic expectations are important, as abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss.
Dr. Ozaki considers age, obesity and smoking habits when evaluating a candidate for this procedure.
Before Surgery
We will take a complete medical history and conduct a careful examination to evaluate your general, overall health. Ideally, the abdominoplasty patient has no health problems, and wishes only to remove an excess deposit of fat or loose abdominal skin. Patients on a weight-loss plan should be close to their target weight before having the operation. Women planning future pregnancies should delay abdominoplasty, as pregnancy may promote further abdominal stretching.
Photographs will be taken before and after surgery.
Antibiotics will be given to you intravenously prior to surgery and an antibiotic prescription will be give to you after surgery to reduce the risk for infection. To minimize the possibility of excess bleeding, you will need to avoid taking drugs containing aspirin. You will also be advised to bathe with an antiseptic soap for several days before surgery.
The Procedure
Abdominoplasty is performed using general anesthesia. You may be given medication prior to surgery so you will feel relaxed. The surgery may take 2-5 hours, depending on your overall condition. You may be released after a few hours, or you may require a day or two of hospitalization.
The incision is placed low on the abdomen and above the pubic area. The incision is placed to be concealed by underwear and bathing suits. A second incision is made around the navel. The skin is then separated from the abdominal wall, exposing fascial tissue covering the abdominal muscle.
Loose, stretched out muscles are tightened with sutures, and excess skin and fat are removed. The skin is lowered over the abdomen and the navel is reconstructed. The incisions are then sutured together. Drains are often inserted to eliminate fluid buildup, and firm elastic bandages are applied to the area.
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Post Operative Instructions
You may experience some discomfort immediately following surgery that can be controlled with pain pills. Some swelling is normal. You will be given special instructions for showering and changing your dressings. There are no surface stitches that will be required to be removed. Surgical drains will be removed in approximately 5-7 days. You may also be required to wear a support garment.
The speed of recovery depends on your physical condition prior to surgery; those with stronger abdominal muscles usually recover faster. Allow at least 2-4 weeks to recuperate before returning to work.
Some scarring is also normal. It often takes 9-12 months before the scars begin to fade.
Though the recovery period is longer than that of other cosmetic procedures, the rewards are great for a patient previously distressed by a protruding abdomen. Those who follow a proper exercise routine and healthy diet will benefit from abdominoplasty the most.