Tummy Tuck

The tummy tuck procedure, technically known as an abdominoplasty, flattens and tones the stomach by removing excess skin and fat. While this is a common female cosmetic surgery procedure, it is also performed on male patients.

A tummy tuck is performed through an incision across the pubic area and along the groin crease in the lower abdomen. Excess fat and skin are removed and the abdominal tone is improved with sutures, which tighten the abdominal muscles.

A patient with skin and fat excess limited to below the belly button, and who has minimal abdominal wall laxity, may be an ideal candidate for a mini-tummy tuck. This procedure is less complex, and takes less time than a full abdominoplasty. The standard full abdominoplasty procedure can take 2 to 4 hours, depending on the patient and the amount of fat in the abdominal area. A mini-abdominoplasty may take 1 to 2 hours.

Women who are planning to become pregnant should consider delaying a tummy tuck until they are done having children; pregnancy can undo the results of the procedure.

Patients who smoke are at increased risk of wound healing problems following surgery.

Tummy tuck patients should allow a minimum of 3 weeks before resuming normal exertion activities.