The tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure that permanently removes excess fat and loose skin from the abdomen. It also tightens muscles in the abdominal wall.
The tummy tuck can be performed with several different techniques. A “complete” tummy tuck is done with an incision shaped like a smile—one that curves from hipbone to hipbone. A second incision is made around the belly button to free the skin from the underlying wall of tissue. The skin is then lifted to expose the abdominal muscles, which are repositioned and tightened, and to remove excess fat. At the end of the procedure, the skin is re-stretched over the abdomen, with any excess removed. A new opening is made for the belly button.
If you need only a small amount of loose skin and excess fat removed, a “mini” tummy tuck, which involves a small incision along the bikini line, may be sufficient. Another option is an endoscopic tummy tuck. With this method, the surgeon uses a tiny camera on the end of a tube (an endoscope) to maneuver small surgical instruments through tiny incisions in the skin.
The tummy tuck is sometimes accompanied by liposuction surgery or laser-assisted lipolysis.
A tummy tuck can permanently improve the contour and appearance of your abdomen. The best candidates for this procedure are people who have excess skin in the abdominal area—perhaps due to a significant weight loss—and/or pockets of abdominal fat that are resistant to diet and exercise.
Before the surgery, you’ll be given either general anesthesia (in which case you’ll be asleep throughout the entire procedure) or a local anesthesia and sedative. The surgery will take 2 to 5 hours. Afterward, your doctor will most likely ask you to remain under observation for a few more hours before sending you home to recover.
A tummy tuck is major surgery, so be prepared for a long recovery. Most people need 1 to 3 weeks before they’re able to return to work. For several days, you may be unable to stand or sit for long periods of time. You’ll also need to avoid bending and lifting. Your doctor may also recommend that you wear a compression garment for several weeks. Swelling and numbness may linger for several months. A tummy tuck is major surgery, and thus has the potential for some serious side effects, including infection and bleeding. The procedure will also leave you with a permanent scar. Be sure you understand all the risks and benefits of this surgery before you go under the scalpel.
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