Abdominoplasty is also known as a "tummy tuck".
This procedure helps flatten the stomach and can dramatically
reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen.
The Abdominoplasty Procedure
It is a major surgical procedure to remove excess skin and
fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles
of the abdominal wall.
Best Candidates
Men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered
by fat deposits or loose abdominal skin that won't respond
to diet or exercise.
Women who, through pregnancy, have stretched their abdominal
muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to
normal.
Men or women who have lost significant weight and as a result
have loose and sagging skin with poor elasticity.
NOTE: Patients who intend to lose a lot of weight should postpone
the surgery.
Also, women who plan future pregnancies should wait, as vertical
muscles in the abdomen that are tightened during surgery can
separate again during pregnancy. If you have scarring from
previous abdominal surgery, your doctor may recommend against
abdominoplasty or may caution you that scars could be unusually
prominent.
Risks
All surgery carries risk, and you should be fully aware of
the medical risks associated with this procedure before you
consent to surgery. Your surgeon will discuss these risks
with you during your consultation, and you are encouraged
to ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
