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An abdominoplasty is a procedure that flattens your abdomen by removing extra fat and skin and tightening muscles in your abdominal wall. This surgical procedure is also known as a tummy tuck. It is a major surgery, so it is important to educate yourself, thoroughly analyze your own situation,...
What is an abdominoplasty?
During a tummy tuck — also known as abdominoplasty — excess skin and fat are removed from the abdomen. Connective tissue in the abdomen (fascia) usually is tightened with sutures as well.
What happens during a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)?
Tummy tuck. Tummy tuck During a tummy tuck, excess skin and fat are removed from the abdomen. The skin is then draped back over the newly repositioned contours to create a smoother and more toned look.
What is involved in a tummy tuck?
In some instances, abdominoplasty is performed simultaneously or directly following gynecologic surgery such as hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). One study found that the removal of a large amount of excess abdominal skin and fat from morbidly obese patients during Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery.
Can abdominoplasty be performed directly after gynecologic surgery?
Is an abdominoplasty a major surgery?
A tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure that will require weeks to heal. The technique includes an incision, running from hip to hip. Patients should expect their recovery to take two to three weeks.
How long does it take to recover from an abdominoplasty?
Six weeks after a tummy tuck It takes six weeks for the body to heal from cosmetic surgery. Swelling may last several weeks, but most patients are fully recovered in three months or less. At this point, it's safe to begin exercising and resuming normal activities.
How long does a tummy tuck procedure take?
How long does a tummy tuck take? On the day of your procedure, you should plan to be at the surgery center for at least 3 ½ hours. The surgery itself takes approximately 2 1/2 hours in surgery and the remaining time will be spent administering anesthesia and preparing you to go home.
How painful is a tummy tuck recovery?
If you are planning to have a tummy tuck, you should be prepared for one to two months of recovery, and you may experience pain throughout this time. In general, pain is mild to moderate after a tummy tuck. Rarely, pain or sensory abnormalities can persist for months or even years after the procedure.
How do you poop after a tummy tuck?
To prevent constipation, add high fiber foods to your diet both before and after the surgery to make it easier for the bowels to empty. Individuals who have a history of constipation or have had previous issues with bowel movements post-surgery may want to consider a laxative/stool softener combination.
How long will I be hunched over after tummy tuck?
How long do you walk hunched over after a tummy tuck? You will need to walk hunched over or bent at the waist for about a week. This helps prevent additional pressure on your incision lines.
What are the cons of a tummy tuck?
The Top 5 Downsides to a Tummy TuckYou Will Have a Lower Abdominal Scar. ... This Is Not a Weight Loss Alternative. ... Complications Are Possible After a Tummy Tuck. ... Tummy Tuck Surgery Has an Extended Recovery Period. ... Results Can Be Difficult to Maintain Without Proper Care.
Who should not get a tummy tuck?
According to Dr. Troy Pittman, a board-certified Washington D.C.-based plastic surgeon, patients who have obesity, a lot of visceral fat (located near vital organs), underlying medical conditions or blood-clotting disorders should refrain from having tummy tucks.
Are tummy tucks worth it?
The short answer is yes; this treatment is totally worth it. Most patients start to see incredible results after about three months, and by six months after the treatment, they are amazed by how different their bodies look. Sometimes, the belly keeps getting flattered and better looking for up to a year.
How do you shower after tummy tuck drains?
Leave the steristrips (small white tapes) in place over your incision. After this you can take a shower. After the shower put on the garment again (make sure the seams are facing the outside), directly over the steristrips. You do not need to put gauze on your incisions.
How do I prepare for a tummy tuck?
How should I prepare for a tummy tuck?Get lab testing or a medical evaluation.Take certain medications or adjust your current medications.Stop smoking.Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding.
What happens 2 weeks after tummy tuck?
What happens 2 weeks after a tummy tuck? At 2 weeks, there is still swelling in the treatment area, however, the pain, bruising, and feeling of tightness are starting to ease. The patient should continue to wear compression garments.
What is the fastest way to recover from a tummy tuck?
3 Tips For A Speedy Tummy Tuck RecoveryEat Foods High In Protein & Drink Plenty Of Water After A Tummy Tuck. Drink lots of water for Tummy Tuck recovery. ... Listen To Your Body After Tummy Tuck Surgery. Listen to your body during Tummy Tuck recovery. ... Consider Receiving Lymphatic Drainage Massages.
What happens 2 weeks after tummy tuck?
What happens 2 weeks after a tummy tuck? At 2 weeks, there is still swelling in the treatment area, however, the pain, bruising, and feeling of tightness are starting to ease. The patient should continue to wear compression garments.
How long does it take to get a tummy tuck done?
How a Tummy Tuck Is Done. This surgery can take anywhere from one to five hours. You may need to stay overnight in the hospital, depending on your case. You will get general anesthesia, which will put you to " sleep " during the operation. Possible Complications.
What is the procedure to flatten your abdomen?
This surgery flattens the abdomen by removing extra fat and skin, and tightening muscles in your abdominal wall. It's not the same as liposuction, although you may choose ...
How to care for bandage after surgery?
It's very important to follow all your surgeon's instructions on how to care for the bandage in the days following surgery. The bandage used will be a firm, elastic band that promotes proper healing. Your surgeon will also instruct you on how to best position yourself while sitting or lying down to help ease pain.
What is the procedure to cut your abdomen from hipbone to hipbone?
At that meeting, you'll talk about your goals and the following options: Complete abdominoplasty. The surgeon will cut your abdomen from hipbone to hipbone and then contour the skin, tissue, and muscle as needed.
What to do after tummy tuck?
Petroleum jelly. Hand-held shower head and bathroom chair. You'll also need someone to drive you home after the tummy tu ck. If you live alone, you'll want someone to stay with you for at least the first night. Make a plan for that.
How long do you have to quit smoking after a syringe?
Continued. If you smoke, your doctor will ask that you quit smoking from at least two weeks before the surgery until two weeks after the surgery. It is not enough to just cut down on smoking. You must stop completely since smoking makes complications more likely and slows healing.
What to tell your doctor before surgery?
Tell your doctor about everything you take, including prescription drugs, herbal medicines, and other supplements. Your surgeon may instruct you to stop taking certain medications for a time before and after the surgery. Before getting the surgery, get your home ready. You'll need:
What is the procedure called when you remove fat from your abdomen?
During a tummy tuck — also known as abdominoplasty — excess skin and fat are removed from the abdomen. Connective tissue in the abdomen (fascia) usually is tightened with sutures as well. The remaining skin is then repositioned to create a more toned look.
How does a tummy tuck affect your body?
Changes in skin sensation. During a tummy tuck, the repositioning of your abdominal tissues can affect the nerves in the abdominal area , and infrequently, in the upper thighs. You'll likely feel some reduced sensation or numbness. This usually diminishes in the months after the procedure.
How to determine if you need a tummy tuck?
Do a physical exam. To determine your treatment options, the doctor will examine your abdomen . The doctor might also take pictures of your abdomen for your medical record. Discuss your expectations. Explain why you want a tummy tuck, and what you're hoping for in terms of appearance after the procedure.
What to tell your doctor about a tummy tuck?
Talk about any medications you're taking or you have taken recently, as well as any surgeries you've had. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medications . If your desire for a tummy tuck is related to weight loss, your doctor will likely ask detailed questions about your weight gain and loss.
What is the shape of a tummy tuck?
During the typical tummy tuck, your plastic surgeon makes incisions to remove most of the skin and fat between your bellybutton and pubic hair in a horizontal oval or elliptical shape .
What happens during a tummy tuck?
During a tummy tuck, excess skin and fat are removed from the abdomen. The skin is then draped back over the newly repositioned contours to create a smoother and more toned look.
How long should I wait to have a tummy tuck?
Maintain a stable weight. Ideally, you'll maintain a stable weight for at least 12 months before having a tummy tuck.
How to do abdominoplasty?
In general, a complete (or full) abdominoplasty follows these steps: 1 An incision is made from hip to hip just above the pubic area. 2 Another incision is made to free the navel from the surrounding skin. 3 The skin is detached from the abdominal wall to reveal the muscles and fascia to be tightened. The muscle fascia wall is tightened with sutures. 4 Liposuction is often used to refine the transition zones of the abdominal sculpture. 5 A dressing and sometimes a compression garment are applied and any excess fluid from the site is drained.
What is a partial abdominoplasty?
Partial abdominoplasty. A partial (or mini) abdominoplasty proceeds as follows: A smaller incision is made. The skin and fat of the lower abdomen are detached in a more limited fashion from the muscle fascia. The skin is stretched down and excess skin removed.
What is the procedure to repair the umbilicus?
Reconstruction of the umbilicus (belly button) following an abdominoplasty surgery. The original umbilicus is sutured into a new hole created by the surgeon. Abdominoplasty or " tummy tuck " is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to make the abdomen thinner and more firm.
Where is the abdominoplasty incision made?
In general, a complete (or full) abdominoplasty follows these steps: An incision is made from hip to hip just above the pubic area. Another incision is made to free the navel from the surrounding skin. The skin is detached from the abdominal wall to reveal the muscles and fascia to be tightened.
How long does it take to get an abdominoplasty?
Depending on the extent of the surgery, a complete abdominoplasty can take from 1 to 5 hours. A partial abdominoplasty (mini-tuck abdominoplasty) can be completed between 1 and 2 hours.
What is a gynecological procedure?
This procedure is normally performed by gynecologists and it is one of the most common gynecological surgeries. This type of surgery is used to treat some benign tumors , cancers of the ovaries, uterus or cervix , Adenomyosis but not endometriosis and are also performed in trans men .
How long does it take to recover from a syringe surgery?
Recovery. Depends on the problem to be treated, surgical technique (s), and other factors. Can take one to four weeks and patients are advised to take at least a portion of this recovery time off from work. Heavy lifting is best avoided during this time. Initially there may be bruising and discomfort.
What is the procedure called when you have a tummy tuck?
An abdominoplasty procedure can be performed to correct the sagging, tightening both skin and muscle. An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is commonly combined with other procedures. Typically, a tummy tuck will be done at the same time as a thigh lift, pubic lift, breast augmentation, or liposuction.
What is the procedure to remove fat from the stomach?
Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the stomach area for a smoother, tighter mid-section. Abdominoplasty surgeries are often combined with other procedures such as liposuction, umbilicoplasty, and muscle tightening.
What is the purpose of sutures and skin adhesives?
Sutures and skin adhesives will be used to close incisions. The goal of an abdominoplasty is to correct an abdomen that protrudes or is loose and sagging which can be caused from aging, heredity, pregnancy, prior surgery, or significant fluctuations in weight.
What is the horizontal incision between the belly button and the pubic hairline?
Incisions will be customized to achieve individual patient goals, however a horizontal incision between the belly button and the pubic hairline is required. The overlying skin will be undermined for removal. Underlying weakened muscles will be repaired to correct any sagging or herniation.
Why does my stomach sag?
The stomach can change in appearance due to fluctuations in weight, pregnancy, and natural aging.
What is the procedure called when fat is removed from the abdomen?
Also known as a tummy tuck, abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure in which excess skin and fat in the abdominal area is removed and the abdominal muscles are tightened.
What is the procedure to remove fat from the body?
In some cases, additional procedures may be performed during or directly following abdominoplasty. Liposuction , also called suction lipectomy or lipoplasty, is a technique that removes fat that cannot be removed by diet or exercise. During the procedure, which is generally performed in an outpatient surgical facility, the patient is anesthetized and a hollow tube called a cannula is inserted under the skin into a fat deposit. By physical manipulation, the fat deposit is loosened and sucked out of the body. Liposuction may be used during abdominoplasty to remove fat deposits from the torso, hips, or other areas. This may create a more desired body contour.
Why do people have abdominoplasty?
Another common reason for abdominoplasty is to remove excess skin from a person who has lost a large amount of weight or is obese. A large area of overhanging skin is called a pannus. Older patients are at an increased risk of developing a pannus because skin loses elasticity as one ages.
What is the procedure to reconstruct a breast?
Breast reconstruction. A modified version of abdominoplasty may be used to reconstruct a breast in a patient who has undergone mastectomy (surgical removal of the breast, usually as a treatment for cancer).
What are the best candidates for abdominoplasty?
Good candidates for abdominoplasty are individuals in good health who have one or more of the above conditions and who have tried to address these issues with diet and exercise with little or no results.
What are the risks of having an abdominoplasty?
Risks. There are a number of complications that may arise during or after abdominoplasty. Complications are more often seen among patients who smoke, are overweight, are unfit, have diabetes or other health problems, or have scarring from previous abdominal surgery.
Where is the incision for tummy tuck?
In an abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, an incision is made in the abdomen (usually from hip bone to hip bone). Excess skin and fat is removed (B). The muscles may be tightened (C). The navel will be placed into the proper position (D), and the major incision closed beneath it.
What is the procedure called when you remove fat from your stomach?
Abdominoplasty. A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty , removes excess fat and skin and restores weakened muscles to create a smoother, firmer abdominal profile. View this content in Español. Find a Plastic Surgeon. Patient Safety.
How to determine the length of a navel incision?
The shape and length of the incision will be determined by the amount of excess skin. Once the abdominal skin is lifted, the underlying weakened abdominal muscles are repaired. A second incision around the navel may be necessary to remove excess skin in the upper abdomen.
How does a mini tummy tuck work?
How involved this whole process gets depends on the type of tummy tuck in question — a "mini" or a full: A mini runs from inner thigh to inner thigh and a full spans the stomach from hip to hip. "The difference between the two procedures is the length of the incision," Doft explains, "thus the amount of skin that can be removed." (One other difference: In a mini tummy tuck, the surgeon usually only stitches up the lower half of the rectus muscles.)
How long does it take to recover from a tummy tuck?
The Recovery Process. Even though it's major surgery — you'll be under anesthesia for the two-and-a-half to four hours it takes to perform — tummy tucks are technically out-patient procedures, meaning you can go home after spending a couple hours in the recovery room, says Doft.
What happens if you have a mole above your belly button?
In a full tummy tuck, "the skin that's above the belly button gets pulled down and does double duty to cover the upper and lower abdomen. So if you have a mole above your belly button before the operation, it's going to be below it after.".
Can a tummy tuck bring muscles back?
But with age, certain lifestyle factors, and definitely pregnancy, that muscle separates further," Matarasso explains. The result is like the loosening of a corset. Unfortunately, once these muscles spread, the only true way to "bring them back" is via surgery. "A tummy tuck brings the muscle edges together, which acts like an internal corset, ...
How long after a syringe surgery can you walk?
Light walking right after surgery is advised, but no hitting the gym for at least two weeks. "By about five weeks, the patient can usually return to normal activities depending on their individual progress.". The recovery process can be painful.
Can a tummy tuck help with sagging skin?
In fact, experts say a tummy tuck may be the only way to get rid of loose, sagging skin. Matarasso likens it to stretched-out elastic. "Once the elastic gets too loose, you can put a safety pin in it, but by and large," he says, "the elastic is shot.". Then there's the muscle issue.
Does a tummy tuck help with stretch marks?
While also removing excess fat via liposuction (more on that later), the first differentiating factor of a tummy tuck is that it can help target the excess skin or stretch marks from pregnancy or a significant weight loss. In fact, experts say a tummy tuck may be the only way to get rid of loose, sagging skin.
What Is Involved in a Mini Tummy Tuck?
Due to aging, pregnancy, childbirth, or weight gain, you may suffer from loose skin and excess fat below the belly button. Some people also have a natural tendency to accumulate fat in this specific area. This creates the appearance of a so-called “belly pooch” or lower belly bulge, with excess skin hanging just below the navel.
What Happens During the Process?
First, you’ll need to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine whether you are an ideal candidate. The initial consultation will help to set your expectations and determine whether a mini tummy tuck is enough to address your issues. Depending on your case, additional or other procedures might be recommended.
Achieve the Flattering Look You Desire
Before you commit your mind and heart to a cosmetic procedure, it is necessary to know everything that is involved in it.
Overview
- A tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgical procedure to improve the appearance of the abdomen. During a tummy tuck — also known as abdominoplasty — excess skin and fat are removed from the abdomen. Connective tissue in the abdomen (fascia) usually is tightened with sutures as well. The remaining skin is then repositioned to create a more toned look. You m...
Why It's Done
- There are a number of reasons you might have excess fat, poor elasticity of the skin or weakened connective tissue in your abdomen. These include: 1. Significant changes in weight 2. Pregnancy 3. Abdominal surgery, such as a C-section 4. Aging 5. Your natural body type A tummy tuck can remove loose, excess skin and fat, and tighten weak fascia. A tummy tuck can also remove stret…
Risks
- A tummy tuck poses various risks, including: 1. Fluid accumulation beneath the skin (seroma).Drainage tubes left in place after surgery can help reduce the risk of excess fluid. Your doctor might also remove fluid after surgery using a needle and syringe. 2. Poor wound healing.Sometimes areas along the incision line heal poorly or begin to separate. You might be g…
How You Prepare
- Initially, you'll talk to a plastic surgeon about a tummy tuck. During your first visit, your plastic surgeon will likely: 1. Review your medical history. Be prepared to answer questions about current and past medical conditions. Talk about any medications you're taking or you have taken recently, as well as any surgeries you've had. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medications. If you…
What You Can Expect
- A tummy tuck is done in a hospital or an outpatient surgical facility. During a tummy tuck, you'll be under general anesthesia — which makes you completely unconscious and unable to feel pain. In some cases, you might be given a pain-relieving medication and be moderately sedated (partially asleep).
Results
- By removing excess skin and fat and strengthening your abdominal wall, a tummy tuck can give your abdomen a more toned and slimmer appearance. Tummy tuck results are usually long lasting if you maintain a stable weight.
Overview
Abdominoplasty or "tummy tuck" is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to make the abdomen thinner and more firm. The surgery involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen in order to tighten the muscle and fascia of the abdominal wall. This type of surgery is usually sought by patients with loose or sagging tissues after pregnancy or major weight loss.
Procedures
Abdominoplasty operations vary in scope and are frequently subdivided into categories. Depending on the extent of the surgery, a complete abdominoplasty can take from 1 to 5 hours. A partial abdominoplasty (mini-tuck abdominoplasty) can be completed between 1 and 2 hours.
In general, a complete or full abdominoplasty follows these steps:
1. An incision is made from hip to hip just above the pubic area.
Recovery
• Depends on the problem to be treated, surgical technique(s), and other factors. Can take one to four weeks and patients are advised to take at least a portion of this recovery time off from work.
• Heavy lifting is best avoided during this time.
• Initially there may be bruising and discomfort.
Risks
Abdominoplasty carries certain risks that may be serious or life-threatening. When making the decision to undergo such a procedure it is recommended to compare the benefits with the potential risks and complications. Hence, all patients must be informed on all the risks they are exposing themselves to. Severe complications occur however in rare cases and these include blood clots, thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications or infection.
Related procedures
Liposuction, also known as lipoplasty, is a type of surgery that removes fat from the human body in an attempt to change its shape. Evidence does not support an effect on weight beyond a couple of months and it does not appear to affect obesity related problems. Serious complications include but are not limited to death, deep vein thrombosis, organ perforation, bleeding, and infection. While the suctioned fat cells are permanently gone, after a few months overall body fat generall…
Image gallery
• Making the initial incision across the lower abdomen. The incision is placed in the bikini line and runs from hip to hip.
• The final sutures securing the umbilicus (also known as "belly button") into its new position after an abdominoplasty.
• The removal of nearly 100 square centimeters of skin from the abdomen of a 40-year-old woman during an abdominoplasty surgery (also known as a "tummy tuck")
See also
• Abdominal etching