Abdominoplasty Surgery

While situps and crunches can help strengthen and develop core abdominal muscles, they do not address stubborn belly fat and loose skin. If your goal is to have a flat stomach after significant weight loss, an abdominoplasty can remove excess skin and fat and, in most cases, restore weakened or separated abdominal muscles for a smoother and firmer abdominal profile.

What Is Abdominoplasty Tummy Tuck?

An abdominoplasty surgery or tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to enhance the shape and appearance of the abdomen. It involves removing the excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and tightening the abdominal muscles using sutures to help create a firmer and more contoured midsection.

The abdominoplasty procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals who have loose skin due to factors like pregnancy or significant weight loss. Individuals with compromised health conditions, such as advanced cardiopulmonary disease, cirrhosis and uncontrolled diabetes, are not ideal candidates for this procedure. Additionally, smoking significantly hinders the outcomes of abdominoplasty procedures due to its negative impact on blood supply, which is crucial during the surgical process.

The following two types of abdominoplasty surgery are both performed under a general anesthetic:

In a partial abdominoplasty surgery:

• A large incision is made across the lower abdomen.
• The skin is separated from the abdominal wall below the belly button.
• Excess fat and skin are removed.
• The remaining skin is pulled together and stitched in place.

In a complete abdominoplasty surgery:

• A large incision is made across the lower abdomen, extending from hip to hip just above the pubic area.
• A second incision is made to free the belly button from the surrounding tissue.
• The skin is separated from the abdominal wall.
• Abdominal muscles are realigned.
• Excess fat and skin are removed.
• A new hole is created for the belly button, which is then stitched back in place.
• The remaining skin is pulled together and stitched to achieve the desired contour.

Understanding that an abdominoplasty surgery is not a quick fix for weight loss is essential. Instead, it addresses specific aesthetic concerns related to excess skin and muscle laxity. Typically, abdominoplasty surgery is recommended for individuals with a healthy body mass index (BMI). BMI measures body fat based on height and weight, which applies to adult men and women. To calculate the BMI, divide a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters. A higher BMI value can indicate greater body fat. However, it is essential to note that BMI screens for weight categories associated with potential health issues. It does not directly diagnose an individual's body fat profile or overall health.

Remember that a tummy tuck is a personalized procedure, and individuals considering it should consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine the most suitable approach for their specific needs.

Let us help determine if abdominoplasty surgery is right for you. Call us at 210-600-9110, and we'll provide you with helpful information and assist you in making an appointment.

How Long Does Abdominoplasty Surgery Take?

Abdominoplasty surgery typically lasts anywhere from two to five hours, and most patients require a hospital stay of a few nights. After the operation, patients leave the hospital wearing dressings and a pressure garment on the abdomen or tummy-control pants. Patients must designate a relative or friend to drive them home and stay with them for 24 hours for monitoring.

What To Expect After Abdominoplasty?

After a few weeks, the patient will have a follow-up appointment to help ensure proper wound healing. Around six weeks post-surgery, the patient can typically stop wearing a corset or pressure garment and resume most activities. Common side effects after an abdominoplasty surgery may include:

• Difficulty standing up straight initially (feeling like the stomach is being pulled), which improves over time.
• Pain and bruising
• Numbness in the abdomen lasting for several months or years in some cases
• Temporary fluid-filled swelling above the scar.
• Raised scars that may appear red initially but fade over 12 to 18 months.

Like any major surgical procedure, abdominoplasty surgery comes with potential risks, which may include:

• Thick, noticeable scars
• Bulges under the skin
• "Dog ears" (extra skin) at scar edges
• Wounds failing to heal properly
• Accumulation of fluid or blood in the operated area
• Numbness or pain in the abdomen or leg
• Stomach cramps or discomfort
• Breathing difficulties

Cosmetic surgery outcomes can vary, and occasionally, individuals may not achieve the desired effect and may consider additional procedures. A tummy tuck is not a replacement for weight loss or a suitable exercise regimen.

While the results of an abdominoplasty surgery procedure are technically permanent, significant weight fluctuations can greatly impact the outcome. Individuals planning substantial weight loss or women considering future pregnancies must be advised to delay undergoing a tummy tuck. Additionally, a tummy tuck cannot correct stretch marks. However, if stretch marks are located in the areas of excess skin that will be removed during the procedure, they may be partially improved or removed.

Plastic and Reconstructive Institute of Texas

At the Plastic and Reconstructive Institute of Texas, a part of Baptist Medical Network, we understand that deciding to have abdominoplasty surgery is a highly personal choice that requires finding the right plastic surgeon and making the right decisions based on complete information.

Let us help bring your confidence back with information to help you decide if abdominoplasty surgery is right for you. Our dedicated plastic surgeons and staff have the experience and solutions to explain your options and answer questions to help you get started.

Healthcare is better together. Visit our website to learn more about our providers and how we can help you achieve your health goals and desired results.