Abdominoplasty, commonly known as Tummytuck, is a cosmetic and aesthetic procedure to remove excess lower abdominal skin and its attached layer of fat, with simultaneous tightening of the abdominal wall. This creates a flatter abdomen with elimination of loose skin, stretch marks and post surgical scars below the umbilicus (commonly vertical caesarian section scars). The protruberant appearance is likewise addressed by way of tightening of the muscle and fascial layers. Most patients who undergo this procedure are those who have had multiple pregnancies or those coming off major weight loss.

The first step a potential patient would have to do is a an informative and meaningful consultation and visit with a certified cosmetic plastic surgeon. The patient is expected to discuss all expectations with regards to looking and feeling better after the abdominoplasty or tummytuck. She should keep in mind however though that the aceeptable outcome is basically reasonable improvement and enhancement and never impossible and unachievable "perfection". Emotional stability in a potential patient is a minimum requirement while reasonable expectation is a must. Having a "new" look from an abdominoplasty will never guarantee a financially rewarding and successful career or even a happy and problem free marriage. It solely improves appearance and possibly helps boosts self confidence. This is realistically what a tummytuck may just accomplish for you. How you handle the positive physical effects and gains of an abdominoplasty is actually up to you. It should be kept in mind that the objective of a tummytuck is a flatter abdomen devoid of most of the unsightly stretch marks and previous operative scar.

A straightforward abdominoplasty takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete however it may take longer if combined with other cosmetic plastic surgery procedures as liposuction or some other facial or body surgeries. The procedure may be safely done in an outpatient setting or on a hospital basis under general anesthesia. Once under general anesthesia one will be sleeping soundly all throughout surgery. At times it may be done under spinal or epidural anesthesia especially in hospital settings.

The incision is done from hip to hip just above the pubic area. Another incision is made around the belly button to free it from the abdominal skin. The abdominal skin and underlying fat is then elevated from the abdominal wall revealing the muscle and fascial layer to be tightened. After tightening, the excess skin is removed and the wounds are closed. The preserved belly button stalk is then brought out through a new hole in the abdominal skin. Liposuction is commonly performed in safe areas to give a better definition and form.

Closure of the incisions are always carefully and meticulously done by your cosmetic plastic surgeon. All patients should keep in mind though that scars are realistically inevitable and are natural consequences of any incision or surgery, your cosmetic plastic surgeon will try his best to keep them inconspicuous and well concealed as possible. Following surgery, dressings and bandage will be applied over the wounds and abdomen while closed suction drains will have to be maintained for a few days to facilitate drainage of any expected fluid.

Operative risks and side effects in cosmetic plastic surgeries are always possible. Bleeding, infection, fluid accumulations, vascular compromise, paresthesias, and healing problems may occur though not that common. Patients are therefore properly cleared and screened by the surgical team while the patient wholeheartedly understands all the possibilities. Any pain or discomfort may be effectively controlled more often than not by the right oral medications. It is prudent however to inform your plastic surgeon or any staff member of any unusual and persistent problems. Swelling and bruising are common and expected and usually resolve in a few weeks. A sense of numbness and tightness may be present which eventually improves and subsides. Post abdominoplasty patients are instructed rest for at least a day and ordered to avoid any exertions. Sutures and drains will usually be out after a week while an abdominal binder shall have to maintained for weeks. Most patients do return to work after approximately 2-3 weeks. Optimal results are seen after about 3 months.

For the potential plastic surgery patient in general, it is strongly advised to consult with a . Patients are strongly encouraged to ask around and be properly and thoroughly informed regarding the they seek. Your certified cosmetic plastic surgeon will display adequate knowledge, skill and care prior, during and after surgery.