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Liposuction
A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is a common term for the surgical procedure to correct a protruding or loose, sagging abdomen. Areas to be treated include the center of the abdomen as well as the sides, back and pubic areas. Abdominal muscles that may have been weakened or separated can also be corrected.
Surgical removal of excess skin and fat may be combined with liposuction. There are many variations to tummy tuck surgery depending on the degree of correction necessary to achieve the final result. Incision length and pattern depend on the amount and location of excess skin to be removed.
In general a horizontal incision in the area between the pubic hairline and navel is required. Through this incision weakened abdominal muscles are repaired and excess fatty tissue and skin are removed. A second incision around the navel may be necessary to remove excess skin in the upper abdomen.
A tummy tuck cannot correct stretch marks, although these may be improved. They are primarily located on the areas of excess skin that will be removed, generally below the belly button.
In addition, previous abdominal surgery may limit the potential results of a tummy tuck. On women who have undergone a C-section, the existing scars are often incorporated or revised for a new incision.
Abdominoplasty is generally performed under general anesthesia in a hospital, with an overnight stay. Elastic bandages or compression garments are used to minimize swelling and to support the abdomen as it heals. Small, thin tubes are temporarily placed under the skin and drain any excess fluid or blood that may collect.
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