With abdominoplasty, the abdominal wall muscles are tightened and excess fatty tissue and skin are removed to improve the body contour. The goal is a narrower, flatter abdomen. Realistic expectations are important. A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss.

Age, obesity and smoking habits are considered when evaluating a candidate for this procedure.

Before Surgery
We will take a complete medical history and conduct a careful examination to evaluate your general, overall health. Ideally, the abdominoplasty patient has no health problems, and wishes only to remove an excess deposit of fat or loose abdominal skin. Patients on a weight-loss plan should be close to their target weight before having the operation performed here in Los Angeles. Women planning future pregnancies should delay abdominoplasty, as pregnancy may promote further abdominal stretching.

Photographs will be taken before and after surgery.

Antibiotics will be prescribed prior to your tummy tuck to prevent infection. To minimize the possibility of excess bleeding, you will need to avoid taking drugs containing aspirin. You will also be advised to bathe with an antiseptic soap for several days prior to surgery.

The Procedure

Abdominoplasty is performed using general anesthesia. You may be given medication beforehand so you will feel relaxed. The surgery may take 2-5 hours, depending on the patient's overall condition. You may be released after a few hours, or you may require a couple days of hospitalization.

The tummy tuck procedure is most commonly performed by making a U-shaped incision below one hipbone, across the pubic area and under the other hipbone. A second incision is made around the navel. The skin is then separated from the abdominal wall and lifted up to the hipbone, exposing loose tissue covering the abdominal muscle.

Loose, stretched out muscles are tightened with sutures, and excess skin and fat are removed. The skin is lowered over the abdomen and the navel is reconstructed. The incisions are then sutured together. Drains are often inserted to eliminate fluid buildup, and firm elastic bandages are applied to the area.

Recovery: What to Expect

You may experience some discomfort immediately following a tummy tuck that can be controlled with pain pills. Some swelling is normal. You will be given special instructions for showering and changing your dressings until the surface stitches are removed in 5-7 days. You may also be required to wear a support garment.

The speed of recovery depends on your physical condition prior to surgery; those with stronger abdominal muscles usually recover faster. Allow at least 2-4 weeks to recuperate before returning to work.

Some scarring is also normal. It often takes 9-12 months before the scars begin to fade.

Though the recovery period is longer than that of other cosmetic procedures, the rewards are great for a patient undergoing a tummy tuck. Those who follow a proper exercise routine and healthy diet will benefit from abdominoplasty the most. Schedule a conultation in our Los Angeles office to learn more.

BlueWaterArticles.com: - Abdominoplasty Tummy Tuck Information

About the Author

Dave Stringham is the President of LookingYourBest.com an online resource for plastic surgery procedures. Learn more about breast augmentation and locate other plastic surgeons.