Sometimes simply dieting and exercising are not enough to take care of waistline problems.  In such cases, a patient may wish to consider a tummy tuck (or abdominoplasty).  A tummy tuck is the surgical removal of excess skin or fatty deposits from the abdomen, along with the repositioning of abdomen muscles into a tighter formation.  This bodily enhancement procedure is designed for those who wish to have a flatter and tighter stomach.  It is also helpful in remedying the vertical separation of abdomen muscles known as diastasis, which can occur following pregnancy.

Reasons for Considering an Abdominoplasty:

• Inability of dieting and exercise to improve the abdomen area.
• Excessive accumulation of skin following weight loss.
• Loss of skin elasticity or diastases (loose abdomen muscles) due to pregnancy.
• The removal of unsightly skin and fat deposits as well as the proper alignment of the abdomen muscles to produce a more flattering look.

General Procedure

Abdominoplasty surgery lasts anywhere from two to three  hours, depending on the desired look and the patient’s unique physiology.  To begin the procedure, an incision is made just above the pubic bone area.  This incision goes horizontally across the lower abdomen, from hip to hip typically.  The skin is then separated away from the muscle tissue, and excess skin is removed.  The abdomen muscle tissue is tightened to provide a firmly contoured stomach and well-defined waistline.  Finally, the incision is closed; and the skin is stitched back into place.  Sometimes the procedure requires liposuction around the sides (or flanks) to improve the love handle area and to achieve a more desirable outcome. Two plastic drains are placed beneath the skin which will be removed by Dr. Bruno one week after surgery. These drains help prevent the accumulation of fluid under the skin.  A compressive abdominal binder or girdle is worn for four weeks after surgery.

Recovery Process

Most patients will take one to two weeks off of work after surgery. No heavy lifting is permitted for four to six weeks . However, early walking is recommended to avoid any circulation problems in the legs.  As the body recuperates, the patient can expect some swelling, pain, and discomfort.  Medication will be prescribed to relieve any pain caused by the procedure.  The stitches will dissolve on their own, only the plastic drains need to be removed.    It may take up to a year for the body to completely adapt to the new abdominal configuration.  With proper diet and exercise the striking results of the surgery will be long lasting.

Please feel free to schedule a consultation with Dr.Bruno to discuss your specific situation and your goals.