Tummy Tuck Sagging abdominal skin, fat, and muscle can be the result of pregnancy, substantial weight loss, or an inherited tendency. Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a "tummy tuck," is a major surgical procedure to sculpt the lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. The procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding or sagging abdomen. It does produce a permanent scar which, in many cases, can extend from hip to hip and will fade over time. Abdominoplasty is frequently performed in conjunction with liposuction (fat removal by suction) resulting in an abdomen that is tighter, flatter and firmer.

The Surgery

Two to three weeks before your surgery you will visit the office for a history and physical examination. You will be given instructions telling you what to do before and after your surgery. Prescriptions for pain medications and antibiotics will be given to you at this time. These should be filled before your surgery. You must not use aspirin or products containing aspirin for two weeks prior to your surgery. Smoking is strictly prohibited three weeks prior and three weeks after your surgery to avoid serious healing problems. We cannot stress enough how important it is to avoid smoking around the time of your surgery. Photos are also taken prior to the surgery to help you and the doctors gauge the results of your surgery.

Complete abdominoplasty usually takes two to five hours, depending on the extent of work required. The surgeon will make a long incision from hipbone to hipbone above the pubic area. A second incision is made to free the navel from surrounding tissue. Next, the surgeon separates the skin from the abdominal wall all the way up to your ribs and lifts a large skin flap to reveal the vertical muscles in your abdomen. These muscles are tightened by pulling them close together and stitching them into their new position. This provides a firmer abdominal wall and narrows the waistline.

The skin flap is then stretched down and the extra skin is removed. A new hole is cut for your navel, which is then stitched in place. Finally, the incisions will be stitched, dressings will be applied, and a temporary tube may be inserted to drain excess fluid from the surgical site.

For the first few days, your abdomen will probably be swollen and you're likely to feel some pain and discomfort which can be controlled by medication. Though you may not be able to stand straight at first, you should start walking as soon as possible.

Surface stitches will be removed in five to seven days, and deeper sutures, with ends that protrude through the skin, will come out in two to three weeks. The dressing on your incision may be replaced by a support garment.

Are You a Good Candidate?

To be a good candidate for any plastic surgery, you must have realistic expectations about what the procedure can do for you. It's important to understand that plastic surgery can enhance your appearance and self confidence but, like all plastic surgery, is not going to solve underlying emotional issues you may have. Always think carefully about your reasonable expectations and discuss any concerns you have with your surgeon. This is a safe and commonly performed procedure but, like all surgery, complications can occur.

Next Steps

All successful surgeries begin with open and honest communication between doctor and patient. Are you considering plastic surgery? Please contact our staff at Sarasota Plastic Surgery and let us educate you about your options and the procedures available. We want you to understand all the possibilities even if you choose not to undergo surgery at our facility. Contact us at 941.256.3938 or with the form on this page to start this potentially life changing experience today.