Abdominoplasty or “tummy tuck" is a surgical procedure that is designed to treat:
To schedule a consultation at the UPMC Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Center:
While typically an aesthetic enhancement, an abdominoplasty can be performed as part of a panniculectomy (removal of excess skin from the lower abdomen) after massive weight loss surgery. Working with other surgical specialists, this procedure can be done in conjunction with a gynecological procedure, such as a hysterectomy, or with a urologic or general surgical procedure.
There are two types of tummy tucks: full and partial.
During a full abdominoplasty, the doctor will make a horizontal or curved incision just below the waistline. The goal of the full abdominoplasty is to remove excess skin across the whole abdomen.
A partial abdominoplasty involves the removal of excess skin in the navel area, or around the belly button.
Your plastic surgeon will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your abdominal area including a detailed history of:
Some of the specific instructions you'll receive about preparing for surgery include:
You and your plastic surgeon will discuss the concerns you have about your current abdominal shape and your goals regarding the abdominoplasty procedure. There are different variations of procedures that include short or long incisions, and differences in areas of muscle tightening. Liposuction of the abdominal wall or in the hip and flank regions may be appropriate for some patients.
Your surgeon will decide which procedure is best based on your goals and anatomic issues. The approximate location of the incisions and scars will be outlined directly on your skin or on a diagram.
Finally, your surgeon will perform a careful evaluation of your overall health as well as issues that could cause complications, such as:
An abdominoplasty usually is performed under general anesthesia, however, certain types of lower abdominoplasties or “mini' abdominoplasties can be performed under local anesthesia with the use of intravenous sedation.
An abdominoplasty is usually done in a hospital as outpatient surgery, and you must be driven to and from the hospital by a friend or family member. Your surgeon may want you to stay one night in the hospital to recover with the help of skilled nurses.
In most cases, you may experience pain for 24 to 72 hours. Swelling can occur in the abdominal wall tissue but this usually resolves within a month of surgery.
You will be encouraged to get out of bed the night of surgery and should be able to walk slowly by the next day. Most patients can go out in public within three to five days. Patients are generally asked to take at least one week off from work, but those who have highly physical jobs may require more time off.
Suction drains are routinely used following abdominoplasty procedures to help ensure wounds from the surgery heal properly. These drains are simple to care for, and patients will be given instructions at the time of discharge.
You may be instructed to use an elastic abdominal binder to keep the area comfortable with gentle pressure. Vigorous physical activity is limited for four weeks following surgery.
Abdominoplasty usually produces a rejuvenated, more youthful and attractive abdominal shape.
An abdominoplasty typically enhances the appearance of your abdomen but is considered major surgery. You should think carefully about your expectations and talk with your plastic surgeon about your goals of the procedure. In addition to the risks associated with anesthesia, complications may include:
Not every person is a good candidate for this procedure, and your risks may be greater or different than those of other patients. Your plastic surgeon will review all potential risks and complications with you prior to the surgery.
Health insurance rarely covers the cost of elective medical procedures. Call 1-877-639-9688 to discuss alternative payment options with UPMC experts.
UPMC experts have extensive experience performing plastic surgery services like tummy tucks. Read about how our experts helped Eric improve his health and regain his confidence.
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