A flat and well-toned abdomen is something many of us strive for through exercise and weight control, but, sometimes these methods cannot achieve our goals. An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgical procedures. This operation gives you a new tummy at the expense of a scar that is typically hidden beneath your underwear or bikini. Loose, sagging skin and excess fat are removed in order to create a tighter, thinner abdomen. Stretch marks resulting from pregnancy or prior obesity are also removed while the weakened muscles underneath are tightened to help flatten the abdomen and taper the waistline. If you have loose or extra skin on your abdomen, a tummy tuck may be the procedure for you.

Excess Abdominal Skin and Fat can be the result of

• Pregnancy
• Weight fluctuation
• Genetic predisposition.

There are different levels of excess abdominal skin and fat. The procedure necessary to correct them increases in complexity as the amount of extra tissue increases. This can be a mini-tummy tuck, a full tummy tuck, an extended tummy tuck, or ultimately a belt lipectomy. 

How is the Tummy Tuck Surgery performed?

ANESTHESIA

Dr. Bidros prefers to perform this procedure under general anesthesia. Although, if the patient chooses, IV sedation is possible. 

SURGERY

The most common method of tummy tuck is making an incision across the lower abdomen, a little above the pubic area, and beneath the bikini line. An incision is also made around the belly button to free it, and the skin is lifted. Next the muscles are tightened which provides a stronger abdominal wall, better posture, and makes the waist smaller. The skin is then lowered and the excess is removed. A new opening is made for the belly button at the proper position. Dr. Bidros is meticulous in performing the opening for the belly button as it is one of the tell-tale signs of a tummy tuck. With special techniques, he recreates a naturally appearing belly button which is resistant to becoming overly large or a small pin point.

After the swelling resolves, your tummy tuck will result in a flatter, firmer abdominal contour that is more proportionate with your body type and weight. Within a week of surgery, you should be able to stand fully upright and confident about your new slimmer profile.

THE RECOVERY

Following your surgery, a dressing will be applied to your incisions, and you will be wrapped in a compression garment to limit swelling and to support your abdomen as it heals. A small, drain tube is usually temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess fluid that may collect. You will have oral pain medication and preventative antibiotics to take. You will have specific instruction on how to care for the incision and early mobility.