Tummy Tuck
An abdominoplasty (stomach lift or tummy tuck) tightens the abdominal walls and removes excess skin to create a flatter contour of the abdomen. This procedure is popular with mothers who have passed their child bearing years and is not recommended for women who may get pregnant in the future. Also, people who have undergone bariatric (weight loss) surgery are common subjects of the operation. Anyone who has difficulty reducing abdominal fat and increasing tone despite frequent exercise is a good candidate for this surgery.
The abdominoplasty procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia and begins with an incision along the bikini-line and the removal of the naval. Once the abdominal walls have been strengthened and repositioned, the skin flap is pulled down, stretched and cut for the new naval fixture. Supplemental liposuction can be used to smooth the transition between the new locations of the skin. The belly button is then reattached and all incisions sewn shut.
The procedure is moderately invasive and requires several weeks before returning to work and even more time before exercise can be attempted. For the first week, it is discouraged to lift any weight heavier than ten pounds. It is also advised to wear the compression garment fitted at the end of surgery as much as possible to reduce the swelling.
