Commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, abdominoplasty is an aesthetic procedure for smoothing and toning the abdomen. If you have excess skin and small amounts of unwanted fat in this region, diet and exercise may not be sufficient for achieving the physical improvements you seek. Abdominoplasty can be used to eliminate loose skin and stubborn deposits of fat as well as tighten the abdominal wall muscles.

How to Know If Abdominoplasty Is Right for You

These procedures are popular among new mothers who wish to regain their pre-pregnancy physiques as well among men and women who have lost considerable amounts of weight. Extreme weight loss can result in loose, flaccid skin that lacks elasticity. Tummy tuck procedures eliminate this extra skin for a smoother and far more appealing stomach profile. When abdominal muscles become weakened or separated by weight loss or pregnancy, these can be tightened through abdominoplasty. This procedure also can diminish the appearance of stretch marks.

Potential Health Benefits of Abdominoplasty

Although tummy tuck procedures are typically performed for aesthetic purposes, there may be a number of health benefits that people can gain from these surgeries, particularly when the stomach muscles are very loose and the panniculus is enlarged. In these instances, tightening the stomach muscles and removing small deposits of unwanted fat can alleviate back pain. Moreover, if the patient regularly suffers from rashes, skin irritation or fungal skin infections in or under the folds of the stomach, abdominoplasty can limit the likelihood of these issues recurring in the future.

How Abdominoplasty Is Performed

A tummy tuck requires a small, horizontal incision between the belly button and the pubic hairline. The size and shape of this incision are determined by the amount of skin and fat that must be removed and the patient’s goals for this procedure. If excess skin in the upper abdomen exists, a second incision around the navel could prove necessary. The upper abdominal skin is pulled tight and trimmed, with excess fat then being removed, and the incision is sutured closed. The procedure is completed by creating a new opening for the belly button, which is then sutured into position. These efforts will create a flatter, firmer abdominal profile that balances out body proportions.

What to Expect After a Tummy Tuck

After an abdominoplasty has been performed, the resulting incisions will be covered with dressings or bandages. Patients are often wrapped in compression garments as well, to reduce swelling and inflammation, providing support to the surgical site throughout the recovery process. Small tubes are also placed just beneath the skin to expedite the removal of fluids that collect in this area. The placement of these tubes is only temporary.

If you are interested in tightening your tummy, abdominoplasty by Dr. Wendell Perry could be right for you. At Wendell Perry MD, we’ll work with you to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.