Abdominoplasty procedures are performed with the utmost care and latest techniques. Abdominoplasty generally takes between two and three, hours plus additional time for liposculpture, if performed. The line of incision and areas for liposculpture are outlined. After speaking with the anesthetist or anesthesiologist, the patient is brought to the operating room. Once asleep, medication is administered to reduce bleeding.

Abdominoplasty always results in a transverse scar across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. The exact location of the incision will depend upon several factors, which include the "bikini" line (French cut or high waist vs. the traditional cut), as well as each person's requirements.

Abdominoplasty also results in a scar around the belly button (umbilicus), as this is made free to allow removal of the excess and loose skin. During the procedure, skin and fat are separated from the abdominal wall, by a transverse incision across the lower abdomen to the lower portion of the rib cage. The underlying abdominal wall and muscles are tightened with sutures (stitches), which provide a firmer and flatter abdominal wall, as well as a narrower waistline. The elevated skin is then lowered and the excess removed. The belly button (umbilicus) is then repositioned to its normal location.

Prior to closure, a long-acting anesthetic is administered along the muscle wall and incision, which dramatically reduces post-operative discomfort. The abdominoplasty incision is closed with sutures predominantly below the level of the skin to avoid cross-hatching and suture marks. A light dressing and elastic binder is then applied.

After an abdominoplasty, patients will experience a minimum amount of swelling and soreness in the upper and lower abdomen region. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to relieve the discomfort and ensure the most pleasant recovery possible. Recovery from abdominoplasty is similar to that of a C-section or hysterectomy, for those who have had these types of procedures.

Although patients are able to move, the first week after abdominoplasty is generally limited to bed-rest, with knees bent and back elevated. It generally takes two to three weeks before patients can do more strenuous activity. Exercise can usually resume between four to six weeks after the abdominoplasty. The patient will continue to wear an abdominal binder for two to four weeks following the surgery.

Recovery and healing after abdominoplasty varies from patient to patient, depending on the extent of surgery. Complete healing takes time and patience, taking up to twelve months.

Abdominoplasty is a popular and common procedure. As with most cosmetic surgical procedures, complications are unlikely when performed by a skilled and competent surgeon.

Abdominoplasty patients may use Venodyne calf compression devices following surgery. These pressure cuffs fit over each lower leg from the ankle to the knee circulating every one to two minutes to reduce the pooling of blood in the lower extremities, further reducing the possibility of blood clots or emboli. Abdominoplasty also requires smokers to stop smoking long before the procedure to increase blood circulation in the skin and promote proper healing.