ABDOMINOPLASTY or TUMMY TUCK SURGERY

What is abdominoplasty or tummy tuck and why is it performed?
Abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck, is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to remove excess fat and skin from the abdominal area of the body in order to make the abdomen more firm and improve the contour of the waist. It should be noted that tummy tuck is a body contouring procedure and not a weight-loss surgery. You may learn more about weight-loss surgeries at Obesity Procedures .

What are the different types of abdominoplasty?
Depending upon the scope of the surgery, abdominoplasty is divided into the following categories:

Complete Abdominoplasty: This involves a long incision from hip to hip above the groin area, and a second incision separating the navel from the surrounding tissues. The muscles are tightened making the abdominal wall firmer and the waistline narrower. After the excess skin is removed, the remaining skin is stretched back into place and a new opening is made for your navel. Liposuction is often used to refine the transition zones of the abdominal sculpture.

Partial Abdominoplasty or Mini-Tummy Tuck: In a partial abdominoplasty, a small incision is made. The skin and fat of the lower abdomen are detached in a more limited fashion from the muscle fascia. The skin is stretched down and excess skin removed. Liposuction is often used to contour the transition zone.

Extended Abdominoplasty: An extended abdominoplasty is a complete abdominoplasty with extensions into the thighs (front) and/or flanks (sides).

Is tummy tuck for me?
For a tummy tuck procedure you should be in a relatively good physical health. Tummy tuck is for candidates with
• loose skin and muscle tissues after pregnancy
• sagging skin in the abdominal area due to aging
• excessive skin caused by major weight loss
• an abdomen that protrudes and is out of proportion to the rest of their body

Women who are considering future pregnancies should not have this surgery until after their final pregnancy. The muscles that are repaired during abdominoplasty can separate again during pregnancy. Also, patients who intend to lose a lot of weight should postpone the surgery.