TUMMY TUCK (ABDOMINOPLASTY)
After pregnancy or weight loss, excess skin and fat can distort the appearance of the abdomen. The abdominoplasty, or “tummy tuck” procedure, creates a flatter, firmer abdomen by removing excess fat and skin, and tightening the abdominal muscles.
Initial Consultation for Abdominoplasty Surgery
During your initial consultation with Dr. Hyman, he will discuss with you your objectives and expectations from surgery. This will also involve a complete medical history, and an examination of the skin, soft tissue and muscles of the abdomen. Dr. Hyman will suggest a procedure that suits you best and answer any questions that you might have.
Abdominoplasty Surgery
The abdominoplasty procedure is performed with a horizontal incision in the lower abdomen within the bikini line. The rectus abdominis muscles of the abdomen are tightened when indicated, and the excess skin and fat are trimmed and redraped. Liposuction is sometimes used in addition to address the flanks. Most abdominoplasty surgeries require repositioning of the umbilicus, or navel. In the “mini” abdominoplasty procedure, lower abdominal muscle tightening with fat and skin removal are performed through a limited horizontal bikini incision only, without repositioning of the navel. Small drain tubes are placed with both techniques. The procedure averages two hours in length and is performed in the hospital or in Dr. Hyman’s private ambulatory surgery facility under general anesthesia. Most patients are able to return home that evening.
Post Abdominoplasty Surgery
After surgery, a soft abdominal binder is placed. The drains are removed 1-2 weeks following surgery. Most sutures will dissolve. Patients generally require one week off from work after this type of surgery. Walking is permitted and encouraged immediately after surgery, but strenuous activity and heavy lifting are limited until six weeks following surgery.
How Do I Get Started?
Dr. Hyman and his staff will be happy to discuss this procedure with you. Please feel free to call for a private consultation with Dr. Hyman, or you can request an appointment online.