Abdominoplasty is also known as a "tummy tuck".
This procedure helps flatten the stomach and can dramatically
reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen.
It
is most often sought out after a woman has given birth and
does not plan on having any more children. After the extra
skin and muscle tissue is removed, the abdomen may not be
able to accommodate another child.
What does a typical Abdominoplasty consultation
entail?
The surgeon will measure your abdomen and general torso region
for an idea of an ideal abdomen size for you. Realistic goals
will be decided between Patient and Surgeon. It must be remembered
that no amount of surgery can restore skin to former conditions.
How is Abdominoplasty performed?
Abdominoplasty is performed most commonly under General Anesthesia
or Light Sleep IV Sedation. Local anesthesia is then used
to numb the abdomen.
The Procedure is typically performed:
The operation is performed by making an incision in the lower
abdomen just above the pubis. The incision can go from hip
to hip. It is placed within the bikini line, to be well hidden.
The skin and fat are removed from the abdominal muscles to
the bottom of the rib cage.
The belly button is separated from the skin and most frequently
all the skin and fat below the belly button is removed. Sometimes,
sutures are placed on the muscles of the abdominal wall to
tighten one side of the abdomen to the other and thereby flatten
the abdomen considerably.
The skin above the belly button is drawn down to the pubis
and sutured into position. A new hole is placed in the skin
and the belly button is positioned in about the same spot
that it existed before surgery.
