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A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that
extracts surplus fat and tissue from the abdominal region.
It is especially helpful for men who retain excess weight
in their mid- sections and in women who have undergone multiple
pregnancies. Following abdominoplasty, patients can expect
a flatter, more contoured and visually satisfying stomach.
Patients considering a tummy tuck
can choose either a complete or partial procedure. A full
abdominoplasty begins with an incision above the pubic area
that extends between the hipbones. The surgeon then makes
a second incision to separate the navel from the underlying
tissue. Next, the skin is separated and pulled up to the level
of the ribs. The surgeon pulls the abdominal muscles together
and stitches them into position. The navel is then relocated
and stitched into place. The surgeon replaces the skin (excess
skin is trimmed) and sutures the original incisions. A complete
tummy tuck takes between two and five hours and may or may
not be outpatient based.
If fat deposits are limited to the
region below the navel, you may only need a partial abdominoplasty
(mini-tummy tuck). In this procedure, a smaller incision is
made, leaving the navel in place. The surgeon stretches the
flap of skin down, removes excess fat and tissue, and stitches
the flap back into place. The partial procedure lasts one
to two hours and is usually performed on an outpatient basis.
Immediately following surgery, the
incisions are dressed with bandages to keep the skin in place.
A tube may be inserted to drain any excess fluid that has
collected. Patients may experience some swelling and discomfort,
although your doctor can prescribe medication to alleviate
these symptoms. Stitches are usually removed five to ten days
following surgery, although deeper sutures may take up to
three weeks. The specifics of each procedure, as well as duration
of hospitalization and type of anesthesia (general or local),
will vary among individuals.
As with any cosmetic surgical procedure,
complications are rare, but include infection and blood clotting.
In the event of a postoperative infection, your doctor can
prescribe antibiotics. Blood clotting is best avoided by moderate
exercise, which strengthens muscles and maintains blood circulation.
Scarring may be pronounced in the first six months, but gradually
flattens and becomes virtually undetectable within a year.
To avoid excessive scarring and poor healing, smokers are
advised to stop both two weeks prior to and following the
procedure. Patients typically return to work within two to
four weeks. To maximize the success of surgery and minimize
the risk of complications, always follow your doctor's instructions
for surgical preparation and postoperative care.
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Abdominoplasty
(Tummy Tuck) in Santa Monica California and Manhattan Beach
