ABDOMINOPLASTY (Tummy Tuck)

Among the popular procedures of cosmetic surgery is the Abdominoplasty also know as a "tummy tuck."  This procedure removes excess skin from the abdomen (abdominal apron).  At the same time, the muscles of the abdomen are tightened and reinforced.  Though is does remove some fat, it is not considered a method to reduce obesity. Incisions involved are horizontally from one ho to the other hip.  Rarely is may also involve a short vertical incision. A second incision is made around the navel.  The stretch marks below the navel are most often removed.  This procedure will result in a flatter, firmer abdominal contour that is more proportionate with your body type.

• Reduces excess skin resulting from previous pregnancies and weight loss.
• Abdominal muscle is tightened.
• Ideal patients should be done having children.
• You should be physically healthy and at a stable weight.
• Your expectations should be realistic
• You must be a NON SMOKER

View Examples

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SURGERY
Following the surgery, you will be transferred to an  outpatient facility for a 23 hour interim care.  You will be placed in a compression garment that you wear day and night for 4 weeks.  Two Jackson Pratt drains will be placed following your surgery.  These drains stay in place and are removed depending on drainage totals that you will keep track of on an 8 hour basis.  Your posture will be affected for a period of time until you are able to stand straight.  The navel plug will need to be removed by you at 5 days post surgery.  Sutures around your navel need to be removed at 14 days post surgery.  No soaking of incision site until completely healed.

POSSIBLE RISK AND COMPLICATIONS:
Bleeding, infection, heavy scarring.  Fluid accumulation that may require subsequent aspiration over a period of time.  Permanent numbness or other skin changes.  Prolonged swelling and discoloration.  Fatty tissue found deep in the skin might die (fat necrosis).  Major wound separation that will delay healing time.  Pain which may persist.  Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications that may require hospitalization at the patient's expense.  Possibility of revisional surgery required that would require additional expense.