Abdominoplasty
An abdominoplasty, or "tummy tuck", is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat on the abdomen, tighten underlying muscles of the abdominal wall, and sculpt the abdomen for a more contoured and flat silhouette. An abdominoplasty is a very common cosmetic operation with high patient satisfaction.
Treatment Time
3-4 hours; operative time depends on adjuncts to a standard abdominoplasty including liposuction, extended abdominoplasty, monsplasty, and more.
Incisions
The incision for an abdominoplasty follows the natural contours of your lower abdomen. It starts at the bikini line and then on either side slowly curves up to your hip bone. A small circular incision is made around your umbilicus, or belly button.
Benefits
Abdominoplasty is able to reverse signs of aging in your abdomen including excess skin, excess fat, and unwanted marks or striations. Abdominoplasty also tightens the underlying abdominal muscles for a flatter stomach and more defined waist.
Technique
Liposuction is generally completed first followed by incisions as described above. Fat and skin are elevated off the abdominal wall up to the sternum and strong stitches are used to tighten the abdominal wall muscles. Two drains are placed and the excess skin and fat is discarded before closing.
Recovery
After 2 weeks the incisions are generally well healed while bruising and swelling persist for 3-4 weeks. Patients described feeling tight for up to two months. Final results are expected at 2-3 months.
Risks
The main risks include blood collections below the skin (hematoma), seroma, poor wound healing, asymmetry, and patient dissatisfaction. Abdominoplasty also carries a risk of blood clots in your legs or lungs, which will be discussed in detail by Dr. McGuire.
Who are the best candidates?
Patients who are otherwise healthy, non-smokers, no further children planned, stable weight, and have unwanted excess skin, fat, or abdominal wall laxity. Patients should ideally have no history of blood clots in either the legs or lungs.
Adjunct Procedures
Many procedures work well with an abdominoplasty. Liposuction is very commonly offered with abdominoplasty to refine the natural, youthful curves of the abdomen. Other body procedures, breast procedures, and/or face procedures can be completed at the same time.