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Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): An Introduction
Reviewed by Edward A.
Pechter, MD, FACS
Overview
Tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that
tightens abdominal muscles and removes excess skin and fat in the
mid-section caused by pregnancy, aging, weight fluctuation, and heredity.
When performed by a trained plastic surgeon, abdominoplasty can change the
contour of your tummy by restoring a firm, toned appearance that often can’t
be achieved through diet and exercise alone. Tummy tuck is one of the most
popular plastic surgery procedures, with almost 150,000 performed in 2007
according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
There are two basic types of tummy tucks: mini and full. If loose skin and
muscle are confined to the lower abdomen, a mini tummy tuck may be all that
is necessary. The advantage of a mini tuck is a shorter scar and easier
recovery. In addition, it is usually not necessary to reposition the belly
button with a mini tuck. But if muscle and skin are loose throughout the
entire abdomen a full tummy tuck is ordinarily recommended. Although this
necessitates a longer incision across the lower abdomen as well as an
incision around the navel, it offers greater improvement than can be
achieved with a mini tuck alone.
Liposuction is often performed with abdominoplasty and it may even allow a
good result to be obtained with a less extensive tummy tuck than would
otherwise be necessary. But there is a limit as to how much liposuction can
be done at the time of a tummy tuck because extensive liposuction could
damage the skin that is being stretched and repositioned for the
abdominoplasty.
Like other cosmetic plastic surgery, abdominoplasty is a way to enhance your
body but be aware that the goal is improvement, not perfection. You should
have realistic expectations and be familiar with the risks associated with
the procedure. Check with a
board-certified plastic surgeon to help decide which surgical options
are best for you.
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