Abdominoplasty

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is an operation performed to flatten the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat and repairing separated muscles. When performed correctly, an abdominoplasty can be one of the most powerful form-enhancing procedures available in plastic surgery.

Common after pregnancies or major weight changes, excess skin and fat across the abdomen is often resistant to diet and exercise. Stretched or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis-recti) generate visibly poor muscle tone in this area. Stretch marks are also a common problem in this area and a tummy tuck often eliminates a majority of them. Because every case is unique, Dr. Patel will tailor your abdominoplasty to your concerns.

At your consultation, Dr. Patel will review with you the various options available for abdominal rejuvenation. He will pay close attention to skin tone, existing scars, possible hernias, fat deposits, and muscle abnormalities, as all are important factors that can influence the surgical result.

Good candidates have reached a stable weight, do not smoke (or plan to quit), and do not have medical conditions that prohibit safe surgery and normal wound healing. Patients whose weight has been stabilized in their weight loss program or who feel they are at their ideal weight are the best candidates for a tummy tuck. Many patients combine their tummy tuck with other cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, breast augmentation or breast reduction surgery.

There 2 types of fat in the body; subcutaneous fat and visceral fat. Only the subcutaneous fat can be addressed during a tummy tuck and liposuction. If you have a significant amount of visceral fat you will not be an ideal candidate. Dr. Patel will discuss this with you during your consultation.

• Subcutaneous Fat: The fat that lies just under the skin; it acts as a buffer to support the skin and is an energy storage material. This is the fat treated with liposuction.
• Visceral Fat: This is the fat that is packed around the organs. Visceral fat is not accessible by liposuction or tummy tucks and can only be reduced by diet and exercise or after bariatric weight loss surgery.

There are three basic techniques used to flatten a protruding abdomen: liposuction, mini tummy tuck, and full tummy tuck. The best technique for you will depend largely on your goals and your specific problem. Liposuction alone can produce a flatter abdominal wall for some. If your laxity and excess skin is below your navel, a mini tummy tuck may be right for you. For those with severe laxity of their abdominal muscle or excessive skin, a full tummy tuck may be their only solution.

A mini tummy tuck is usually performed in conjunction with liposuction of the upper abdomen and the flank areas. With a mini tummy tuck, a smaller incision is made in your bikini area and no incision is made around your belly button. Dr Patel will remove your excess skin and fat through this incision. Permanent sutures will also be placed through this incision to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. To blend the contours, Dr. Patel may recommend liposuction to the waist and abdomen during this surgery.

A full tummy tuck involves an incision around the belly button and another incision that runs from hip to hip. Your entire abdominal wall is tightened with permanent sutures, and the excess skin and fat is removed. Dr. Patel will remove your excess skin and fat through this incision. Permanent sutures will also be placed through this incision to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. To blend the contours, Dr. Patel may recommend liposuction to the waist and abdomen during this surgery.

Regardless of which procedure you have, your incisions are closed with small sutures. Small drains may also be inserted to eliminate fluid buildup. Snug elastic bandages are then applied to the area.

After your tummy tuck, bed rest is recommended for the first day or so. Most patients experience some numbness in the area of their abdomen, which may last for some time. Any pain or discomfort that follows surgery can be controlled with oral medication. If drains are used, they may remain in place for 7-14 days until discharge fluids decrease. Dr. Patel uses sutures that dissolve, meaning there are no sutures to remove. An abdominal support garment is often necessary for several weeks. There will be some scarring that will fade significantly over time. During your recovery, you must refrain from any strenuous activity or lifting. Most patients are back to work within 1-3 weeks, depending on the extent of their surgery. Dr. Patel will decide when you can resume normal activities. Patients may drive and return to work once they discontinue narcotic pain medicine.