Abdominoplasty or "tummy tuck" is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to make the abdomen more firm. The surgery involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen in order to tighten the muscle and fascia of the abdominal wall. This type of surgery is usually sought by patients with loose tissues after pregnancy or individuals with sagging after major weight loss.
| Procedure: |
Flatten abdomen by removing excess fat and skin and tightening muscles of abdominal wall. |
| Length: |
2 to 5 hours. |
| In/Outpatient: |
Either depending on individual circumstances and extent of surgery. |
| Side Effects: |
Temporary pain. Swelling, soreness, numbness of abdominal skin, bruising, and tiredness. |
| Risks: |
Blood clots. Infection. Bleeding under the skin flap. Poor healing resulting in conspicuous scarring or skin loss. Need for a second operation. |
| Recovery: |
Back to work: 2 to 4 weeks. More strenuous activity: 4 to 6 weeks or more. Fading and flattening of scars: 3 months to 2 years. |
