A protruding abdomen causes distress to thousands of people as a result of weak abdominal muscles, weight gain or pregnancy. This can be hard on people because you can diet and exercise, but the condition does not respond well to this because the skin and underlying muscles have been stretched, leaving you hopeless-until now. Today, a remarkable procedure called, abdominoplasty has been designed to flatten a protruding abdomen through the tightening of abdominal wall muscles and removal of excess fatty tissue and skin giving you the flat stomach you have always wanted.

Be advised, Abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss. The objective of this surgery is to improve the shape of the body by narrowing and flattening the abdomen. The best candidate for this surgery is the individual who is of normal weight but who has weak abdominal muscles and excess skin and fat. Obesity, age, and smoking habits are some of the factors the cosmetic surgeon considers when evaluating a candidate for this procedure.

Before Tummy Tuck Surgery
Prior to tummy tuck surgery, a complete medical history will be9713591_xl taken in order to evaluate the general health of the patient, and a careful examination is also performed. The patient and cosmetic surgeon will then discuss together what can realistically be expected. The procedure, type of anesthesia to be used, and possible risks and complications are also discussed. Preoperative instructions may include the elimination of certain drugs containing aspirin for your safety in order to minimize the possibility of excess bleeding during surgery. Antibiotics may be prescribed prior to surgery to prevent infection. The patient may also be advised to bathe with an antiseptic soap for several days prior to surgery. Photographs will be taken before and after surgery to document the amount of improvement.

The Procedure
8416731_xlAbdominoplasty is typically performed in our surgical center under general anesthesia with the patient asleep. Premedication is usually administered to relax the patient before the surgery performed. Although there are several different procedures that can be performed, the most frequently used by cosmetic surgeons involves a “u” shaped incision made below one hip bone and across the pubic area to under the other hip bone. A second incision is then made around the navel. The skin is separated from the abdominal wall and lifted up to the breast bone exposing the loose tissue that covers the abdominal muscle. Often lax abdominal muscles are sutured in order to tighten loose or stretched out muscles. The skin is then lowered over the abdomen and excess skin and fat is removed. Before the incisions are closed with sutures, the navel is reconstructed, and fluid buildup is then drained. Firm elastic bandages are then applied to the area.

Following Tummy Tuck Surgery
Recovery time following the surgery can vary from 7-10 days depending on the patient. Compression garments may be worn as well for several weeks. During this time, patients must keep from straining themselves, being over-active, and most importantly, refrain from any heavy lifting.

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