BODY - Abdominoplasty

Many factors can affect the contour of your abdomen. An unattractive abdomen can result from excess fat deposits that produce undesirable bulges or fullness and loose skin following childbirth or weight loss. A tummy tuck can improve the contour and appearance of the abdomen. The procedure contours or reshapes the underlying muscle framework and removes excess fat and loose skin. We also offer mini-abdominoplasty for people who have fat located primarily in the lower part of their abdomen.

Our plastic surgeons understand that every case is different and strive to give you exceptional personal care. We have extensive experience with this procedure, have board-certified anesthesiologists on staff, and perform surgeries in our fully accredited facility.

Tummy Tuck Benefits

After significant weight loss, fatty tissue is decreased beneath the skin of your abdomen. This skin may become looser and sometimes hang downward. Localized deposits of fat can occur in area of the abdomen, producing undesirable contours even in individuals who are not overweight. Fat deposits can be corrected with liposuction alone, but abdominoplasty is necessary to achieve the best contour if stretched musculature or loose skin are present. A tummy tuck can improve the following:

?뛕eshapes the underlying framework of the abdomen to improve shape and contour
?뛕emoves excess fat deposits
?뛕emoves excess skin to improve overall contour, appearance, and shape of the abdomen

Abdominoplasty Procedure

Incisions for a tummy tuck are placed low on your abdomen so they can be easily concealed. Your doctor will discuss your preferences and specific ways in which he or she can minimize the length of your incisions. Next, the abdominal muscles may be tightened for optimal contouring. After that, excess fat is removed using liposuction or direct removal techniques. This reduces any excess thickness in the soft tissue to get the best re-draping over your new abdominal framework.

Then, the skin is pulled downward to tighten the abdomen. Any excess tissue is removed below. Depending on the degree of looseness of the skin and the amount which needs to be removed, it may be necessary to reposition the umbilicus (belly button). In some cases, your surgeon may be able to re-contour your abdomen without repositioning the umbilicus, resulting in minimal scarring.

Following a tummy tuck, most patients report that their abdomen feels tighter as a result of its new shape. The feeling of tightness will decrease within the next few weeks following the procedure, as swelling decreases and the tissues become accustomed to their new shape. It is important to be "up and about" the day following the procedure, and to discuss with your surgeon when you can resume normal, everyday activities. The amount of activity we recommend depends on the specific procedure that was required to reshape your abdomen.