TUMMY TUCK (ABDOMINOPLASTY)

Abdominoplasty surgery is ideal for those who have lost a significant amount of weight, whether it is through diet and exercise or after pregnancy. A standard abdominoplasty involves an incision along the waistline from hip to hip and around the belly button. A significant amount of excess lower abdominal skin is removed and in most patients, the abdominal contour is tightened. The tightening is done using suture techniques to bring the midline abdominal muscles closer together in the midline, as there is a normal separation that occurs over time and with weight changes. Getting to your optimal weight before surgery will result in the best aesthetic outcome, because this allows for removal of the maximal amount of excess skin and the most pleasing abdominal contour.

Yes, liposuction can be performed along with a tummy tuck, but only in the area of the flanks (the sides of the lower abdomen). Liposuction in the area of the central abdomen can result in critically reduced blood supply to the skin in that area and increases risk for wound healing complications. If needed, liposuction to this area may be performed as a second stage operation.

Most patients stay in the hospital overnight for one night. It is important to walk around your room at least once during the evening of your stay to minimize risk of blood clots. Slow walking at home should be done at least three times a day, but strenuous activity, heavy lifting and exercise are restricted for 6 weeks. Walking is performed with a slight bend at the waist immediately after surgery, with a gradual progression to straightening out. An abdominal binder is worn at all times during recovery. Two drains are placed during surgery to reduce risk of fluid collections. In most cases, these are removed after the first week. Driving is restricted until you are no longer taking pain medication, have full range of motion in your arms and feel confident that you could respond quickly in an emergency. Return to work will depend on the activity level in your job, but most patients take off at least two weeks.