Nobody likes to be out of shape. Modern lifestyles contribute to the problem, with obesity being at the end of the spectrum.
But often, even if a person makes dietary and lifestyle changes and exercises regularly, there are areas of the body that simply don’t respond. This is especially true in the abdomen after significant weight loss or multiple childbirths. Excess skin, pockets of fat, and muscles that will no longer return their former tautness are not unusual, even when the person is exercising.
Abdominoplasty, commonly called a tummy tuck, is the answer to getting rid of that enduring stomach pooch.
We first have a consultation with the patient to evaluate the goals and expectations of the tummy tuck procedure. We create a plan and discuss it thoroughly with the patient.
In a tummy tuck, a long incision is made just above the pubic bone, and usually a second at the belly button. Skin is pulled taut and excess is trimmed. Fat pockets are removed as needed, and muscles are repositioned.
The procedure lasts a few hours depending on the amount of fat and skin that needs removing. The recovery time for the procedure is one to two weeks with patients returning to work two weeks after surgery. While regular activities can be resumed after this period, strenuous tasks that put pressure on the abdomen will need to be avoided for up to three months.
Abdominoplasty is a great option for individuals who just can’t seem to get their abdomen into the shape they want.