Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) – General Cosmetic Body Surgery Information

Tummy tuck surgery, clinically known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure intended to remove excess fat and skin from protruding abdominal areas, thereby producing a sleeker, trimmer physique. It is a major surgery that is most effective for patients who have large amounts of fat gathered in the abdominal region but who are otherwise in reasonably good health.

Tummy tuck surgery is a body contouring procedure, as opposed to being a weight-loss procedure; it is designed to refine and sculpt the body, not to aid in massive weight loss. For the latter, bariatric surgery is truly the best, and often the only, surgical option. As a body contouring procedure, however, few options are as effective as abdominoplasty.

Because abdominoplasty is a substantial surgical procedure with potentially serious risks, it is important that you select a cosmetic surgeon who has extensive experience and a history of success in performing the procedure. During the procedure, the plastic surgeon makes an incision that extends the length of the abdomen. This incision gives him access to the underlying fat and muscles. After separating the skin from the wall of the abdomen, the cosmetic surgeon removes excess fat (often with the aid of liposuction) and, if necessary, tightens the abdominal muscles. At this point, any excess skin is removed while the remaining skin is stretched and sutured closed. If necessary to achieving the most aesthetically pleasing result, the navel may also be repositioned.

After this form of cosmetic surgery, many patients require hospitalization for one or two days while the beginning stages of their recovery are monitored. A further two weeks of rest is necessary before patients are able to return to their everyday schedules. As with any invasive surgery, scarring is inevitable, although scars will fade with time. After the area has completely healed, patients will be left with a trimmer, healthier-looking abdomen. Of course, results can only be maintained if patients commit themselves to a healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise.

To learn more about liposuction and tummy tuck as well as facelift and breast augmentation surgery, be sure to visit our New Jersey cosmetic surgery office.