Abdominoplasty
Treatment for: Excess Skin and Fat from the Abdomen
What is Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen while also tightening the underlying abdominal muscles to result in a tighter, more toned appearing abdomen.
Is that a tummy tuck?
Yes.
What is the difference between a “mini-abdominoplasty” and a “full abdominoplasty"?
” The “mini” addresses the abdomen from the belly button down to the pubic area. The “mini” also uses a shorter incision than the standard abdominoplasty. This is a good procedure for someone who does not have much excess skin, but does have a bulge from loss of tone of the abdominal muscles.
What is abdominal panniculectomy?
Panniculectomy is a term utilized for removal of overhanging skin which is symptomatic. Technically, abdominal panniculectomy is an abdominoplasty, but for patients with remarkable excess skin.
Who is a good candidate for abdominoplasty?
Both men and women may pursue abdominoplasty. Individuals who are good candidates have an abdomen that lacks tone from surgical incisions or who have undergone weight loss with excess skin and stretch marks. Women who had significant weight gain with pregnancy are also candidates. Individuals who are not candidates include active smokers and patients with multiple medical problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Abdominoplasty is not a treatment for obesity.
Should I lose weight before the surgery?
It is best to be at a stable weight that is a healthy weight for you. If you are losing weight, you should wait to undergo the surgery when weight is stable.
Is liposuction part of the procedure?
Not necessarily. You will need to discuss this with your surgeon. There are risks associated with combining liposuction with abdominoplasty, so this will need to be considered and discussed.
Can I get pregnant after abdominoplasty?
Yes, but pregnancy may weaken the tightening procedure of the abdomen.
How is abdominoplasty performed?
An incision is made above the pubic area and toward the hip on either side. Through this incision the skin is lifted off the muscles, extending to the upper abdomen. The belly button is cut free from the surrounding skin and remains in its place. The abdominal muscles are tightened, if necessary. Then the skin is pulled down, and the excess skin is removed. Closure is performed with sutures, not staples, most of which are absorbable. Drains will be placed as well.
What other procedures can be combined with abdominoplasty?
Liposuction of the back and hip area is a popular adjunct procedure, as well as backlift, which includes removal of lower back skin. Breast surgery is another popular surgical partner. At the time of consultation you will need to address your interests to your surgeon to discuss the possibility of performing procedures in addition to the abdominoplasty.
Will insurance pay?
That depends. In the case of massive weight loss or a history of multiple abdominal surgeries resulting in a lack of tone, then insurance may pay. Your surgeon will need to submit a request for authorization to your insurance company, with photographs.
What is recovery like after abdominoplasty?
Recovery often takes approximately 4 weeks, sometimes less in patients who “bounce back” more quickly. Many patients require an overnight hospital stay. Drains are often placed which will need to be managed for 1 week up to a month, sometimes longer if the abdominoplasty is combined with contouring procedures of the back. An abdominal binder might be worn for about a month.
When can I go back to the gym?
Typically about 1 month after surgery. Exercise should start in the upper body and legs, not the abdomen. Exercise should not be strenuous after surgery – your body will tell you when you are doing too much.
Will I need to stay in the hospital?
Patients may stay overnight in the hospital after abdominoplasty. Some patients are sent home the day of surgery. Others with combined procedures may stay in hospital 2 nights. Discussion will need to take place with your surgeon regarding her/his expectation.
What are the risks?
Possible risks of any surgery include bleeding, discomfort, infection, scarring, difficulty with healing, need for revisions, prolonged drains, numbness and swelling. Another risk is that the skin may become lax again as recovery proceeds which may require touch-up tightening. It is best to not smoke and improve your baseline health status as much as possible.
What is the cost?
Variable, depending on how much is done, as well as the facility and whether a hospital stay is recommended. Generally the procedure can run from $3500 up to $6000, not including the cost of other procedures.
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