Tummy Tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical
procedure to remove the excess skin and fat from the middle
and lower abdomen. In addition the “pooch” caused
by laxity of the abdominal muscles can be tightened at
the same time as the removal of the excess skin. The procedure
results in a flatter and trimmer abdomen.
A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight
loss.
The procedure is considered to be permanent; however,
frequent fluctuations in weight after a tummy tuck can
reverse some of the positive effects of the procedure.
The best candidates for abdominoplasty are men and women
who are in relatively good shape but have a fat deposit
or loose abdominal skin that will not respond to diet
or exercise. Surgery is particularly helpful to women
who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their
abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they
can return to normal. Women who plan future pregnancies,
should wait, as abdominal muscles that are tightened during
surgery can separate again during pregnancy. Other good
candidates are patients with who have lost abdominal skin
elasticity.
Typically this surgery is done under general
anesthesia and can be performed in an out-patient center.
The surgery takes about 2 to 3 hours to perform. Some
patients will require overnight stay while others can
go home the same day as the surgery. At your confidential
consultation, Dr. Barber will discuss your particular
situation, a plan to correct the excess skin and fat and
tighten the loose muscles of your abdomen.
