"Abdominoplasty,”
or a tummy
tuck, is a
surgical
procedure
designed to
flatten the
abdomen by
removing
excess skin
and fat,
tightening
the muscles
of the
abdominal
wall. Tummy
tucks can
dramatically
reduce the
appearance
of a
protruding
abdomen.
Sometimes
after
massive
weight loss,
an apron of
skin around
tummy area
results.
removal of
this is
called a
Panniculectomy
Length
2 to 3
hours.
Recovery
Back to
work: 3 - 6
weeks
minimum.
More
strenuous
activity: 4
to 6 weeks
or more.
Fading and
flattening
of scars: 3
months to 2
years.
Results
Usually long
lasting if
the patient
follows a
balanced
diet and
regularly
exercises.
Technology
Most
commonly, Dr
Welsh will
make a long
incision
across the
lower
abdomen
directly
above the
pubic area,
with a
second
incision
following to
free the
navel from
surrounding
tissue. Dr
Welsh will
separate the
skin from
the
abdominal
wall up to
the ribs,
lifting a
large skin
flap to
reveal the
vertical
muscles in
the abdomen.
Dr Welsh
will
eventually
tighten the
muscles by
pulling them
close
together and
stitching
them into
their new
position.
Patient
Status
Outpatient -
Usually
outpatient;
dependent
upon
individual
circumstances
and extent
of surgery.
Anesthesia
General
