Tummy tuck

Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure that aims to make the abdomen thinner and more firm. The surgery involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and tightening the muscle and fascia of the abdominal wall.

Procedure

The procedure for a tummy tuck begins with the patient being placed under general anesthesia. The surgeon then makes a horizontal incision in the area between the pubic hairline and belly button. The shape and length of the incision will be determined by the degree of correction necessary.

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. The upper abdominal skin is then pulled down like a window shade. The excess skin is trimmed and the remaining skin is sutured together. A new opening for the belly button is created. The belly button is popped through to the surface and sutured into position.

Risks and Complications

Like any other surgical procedure, a tummy tuck also carries certain risks and complications. These may include infection, poor wound healing, fluid accumulation, numbness or other changes in skin sensation, skin discoloration and/or prolonged swelling, fatty tissue found deep in the skin might die (fat necrosis), major wound separation, asymmetry, recurrent looseness of skin, pain, deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications, persistent swelling in the legs, nerve damage, possibilities of revisional surgery, anesthesia risks, and suboptimal aesthetic result.

Recovery

Recovery from a tummy tuck procedure varies from patient to patient. Most people will need to take at least two weeks off work for initial recovery. It's important to avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for at least six weeks after surgery.

See Also

• Liposuction
• Body contouring
• Plastic surgery
• Cosmetic surgery