Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Abdominoplasty or Tummy Tucks

Abdominoplasty, also known as "tummy tuck" surgery, is a procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. This surgery is helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies or significant weight loss, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where that skin will be able to naturally return to normal.

Sometimes fat deposits are limited to the area below the navel and may require a less complex procedure called a partial Abdominoplasty or "mini tuck." You may benefit more from a partial or a full Abdominoplasty, done in conjunction with liposuction to remove fat deposits from the hips for a better and more pleasant body contour.

Regular smokers should plan to quit at least 2 weeks before surgery and not resume for at least two weeks after surgery. Avoid over exposure to the sun before your surgery, especially to your abdomen. It is also important to maintain a regular eating schedule (no strict dieting) prior to the procedure. The primary incision is made along the bikini line, just above the pubic area, and a second incision may be required to free the navel from surrounding tissue.

Abdominoplasty typically takes four hours, depending on the extent of the tuck required. You will need someone to drive you home from the hospital. You may wish to arrange help for two to three days following your surgery.

After your surgery, you may have a small drain inserted to release fluid from the surgical site. This drain will be removed when drainage has slowed or stopped. For the first few days your abdomen will probably be swollen. Any pain or discomfort you have will be controlled by medication. You will usually have gauze dressing on your abdomen covered by an abdominal binder. This will remain in place until you visit your physician post operatively. Sutures are typically removed in about ten days and your abdominal dressing will be replaced by a support garment.

You may expect to go back to work within one to two weeks. During the first three to six months, your incision will be pink and raised. Expect it to take nine months before your scars flatten out and lighten in color.

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