April 2024 Procedure of the Month: Abdominoplasty
Posted March 25, 2024
Abdominoplasty, better known as a Tummy Tuck, is a procedure that removes excess skin on the abdominal wall and tightens the abdominal wall muscles. Pregnancy, especially multiple pregnancies, weight loss, and even normal aging can result in the development of excess skin and laxity of the muscle wall. Many patients describe this area as the “belly pooch” on the lower abdominal wall after pregnancies that just won’t go away even with diet and exercise. A Tummy Tuck is the best option for all these patients because it addresses all of these issues.
An abdominoplasty procedure requires 2 incisions: one around the belly button and a longer incision running across the lower aspect of the abdomen, below the clothing line.
The belly button is not removed just cleared away from the surrounding tissue until the end of the procedure. The belly button can be reshaped during an abdominoplasty to make it appear very natural. During the procedure, the abdominal wall muscles are tightened to correct the laxity or “pooch” that has developed. The muscles are tightened from just below the rib cage to the pubic area, producing a corset effect. The excess skin is then marked and completely removed. This produces a much flatter and better-contoured abdomen. The belly button is then reshaped and sutured back into its natural position. Drains are commonly used in this procedure to minimize the development of a seroma. Drains are usually needed, on average, for 1-2 weeks. A compression binder is also used for several weeks to support the abdomen.
Downtime for an abdominoplasty is approximately 3 weeks before light exercising, and housework can be resumed. Depending on the patient’s job requirements, 2-4 weeks off of work will be necessary. If a patient has a job with more strenuous requirements, it may require 6 weeks.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 2 hours. Liposuction of the hips can be performed at the same time if needed. The procedure is outpatient with the patient going home after 1-2 hours in the recovery room. There are no dietary restrictions, only close attention to hydration and protein intake. Patients are ambulating immediately following the procedure but are not allowed to exercise for 3 weeks. The procedure is very well tolerated. Most patients describe feeling tight across the abdomen and mildly uncomfortable. It is rare to have significant pain, but as always, it depends upon a patient’s pain threshold.
