 ABDOMINOPLASTY
The tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of a protruding abdomen. During the surgery, excess skin and fat are removed and the muscles of the abdominal wall are tightened. A partial abdominoplasty, also known as a mini tummy tuck, is a less extensive tummy tuck procedure mainly reserved for individuals with fat deposits limited to the area below the navel.
The ideal candidate is in relatively good shape with loose abdominal skin that has proven resistant to diet and exercise. Those considering abdominoplasty must be physically healthy, psychologically stable and realistic in their expectations. A tummy tuck can be particularly beneficial for women who have had multiple pregnancies that have stretched the abdominal muscles and skin. Dr. Duboys or Dr. Sirota will meet with you in consultation and discuss the possibilities available to you as well as your expectations. Surgery may be postponed for individuals who are planning future weight loss or pregnancies.
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Dr. Duboys and Dr. Sirota typically perform tummy tuck surgery at their in-office surgical facility at Associated Plastic Surgeons. This is a state-of-the-art operating room that is fully approved by the American Association for Accreditation of Surgery Facilities. Tummy tuck surgery usually takes between two and three hours to complete, though a partial abdominoplasty may take just an hour or two. General anesthesia is commonly used
The incision for the tummy tuck is located just above the pubic area the length of which may run from hip to hip. A shorter incision may be made for a partial abdominoplasty.
The exact nature of the surgery will depend on your body habitus. In general, however, the underlying muscles and tissue are drawn together and sutured in place in order to contour your waist and strengthen the abdominal wall. Excess skin is removed and a new opening is cut for the navel. Dressings will be applied to the surgical site after your procedure that are held in place by a support garment. Swelling is common during the first few days. Medication can be prescribed to help control any pain or discomfort that occurs. Most patients feel well enough to return to work after one to two weeks.
The tummy tuck can be a very rewarding experience, enhancing both your appearance and your self confidence permitting you to fit better in your clothing.
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An incision just above the pubic area is used to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen. |
Skin is separated from the abdominal wall all the way up to the ribs. |
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The surgeon draws underlying muscle and tissue together and stitches them, thereby narrowing the waistline and strengthening the abdominal wall. |
Abdominal skin is drawn down and excess is removed. With complete abdominoplasty, a new opening is cut for the navel. Both incisions are stitched closed. |
Frequently Asked Tummy Tuck Questions
What is a tummy tuck?
The tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty as it is also known, is a procedure which can flatten and reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen. The surgery involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen. In addition, the muscles of the abdominal wall are tightened.
What is a mini tummy tuck?
A mini tummy tuck, or partial abdominoplasty, is a less extensive tummy tuck procedure designed for women whose fat deposits are primarily limited to the area beneath the navel.
Who is a candidate a tummy tuck?
Candidates for the tummy tuck include men and women who are looking to improve the appearance of a protruding abdomen. It's also important that tummy tuck candidates be in good physical health, psychologically stable and have realistic expectations. The tummy tuck is most effective on those who, though in relatively good shape, are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that remains unaffected by diet and exercise. Women who have undergone multiple pregnancies often find the procedure particularly beneficial. A less extensive mini tummy tuck may be appropriate for those whose fat deposits are limited to the area below the navel.
What occurs during a consultation for a tummy tuck?
During the consultation for a tummy tuck, you will meet with either Dr. Duboys or Dr. Sirota. After carefully examining your abdomen, the doctor will discuss your expectations and the possibilities available to you. All details of the tummy tuck procedure will be explained and any questions that you have answered.
Read more tummy tuck questions.
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