If you want a tighter, flatter abdomen, then a tummy tuck may be appropriate to help achieve your goals. Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin, and in some cases restores weakened or separated muscles. This creates an abdominal profile that is smoother and firmer, often enhancing your body image and confidence.
Procedure
The excess skin and fat are removed surgically from the abdominal area. Depending on the needs of the patient, the muscles of the abdominal wall are tightened. The incision is a half moon shape (length dependant on the mass of skin and fat to be removed), and is usually made directly under the overhanging skin.
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Approximately two to four hours.
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Most commonly patients are placed under general anesthesia. This procedure can also be performed with a regional nerve block obtained with local anesthetic agents.
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Either is possible and depends on the patient's health and the doctor's preference.
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Temporary discomfort, post-operative swelling, soreness or tenderness in the surrounding areas, numbness of abdominal skin and bruising are possible side effects.
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Infection, bleeding under the skin flaps or at the incision site, pulmonary embolism (a blood clot that travels to the lung), scarring (keloids), delayed healing, or the need for a second reversionary operation are potential risks.
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The patient may return to work within two to four weeks. Upon re-evaluation by the physician, the patient - may return to more strenuous activity after approximately four to six weeks. Scars should fade and flatten anywhere from three months to one year after surgery.
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