Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty, more commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is a well-known type of plastic surgery administered to suitable candidates. The procedure is performed as a means of extracting excess fat and skin from the abdominal region. The intended aesthetic purpose of the procedure is to give the abdominal muscles a flat, toned appearance.

Prospective Abdominoplasty Candidates

In many instances, the surgery is performed on obese or overweight persons. However, here at Rowe Plastic Surgery in New Jersey, the undertaking might be administered to persons with relatively normal body weight who have experienced sagging in the abdominal muscles for any number of reasons including:

• Pregnancy
• Old age
• Hereditary conditions
• Having undergone prior abdominal surgical procedures
• Experiencing significant weight fluctuations

It is important to note, however, that while this procedure might help some overweight individuals shed some pounds, the procedure is not truly intended for that purpose. Therefore, a tummy tuck is not usually indicated for those seeking or in need of drastic weight loss.

The best candidates for tummy tucks are in good physical health, refrain from smoking and have the primary intended goal of improving the appearance of their abdominal region. At Rowe Plastic Surgery a thorough medical evaluation will be performed before administering a tummy tuck.

The Procedure

Tummy tucks can be performed on an inpatient and outpatient basis depending upon numerous different factors. That said, most procedures are completed in several steps, which include:

Anesthetizing The Patient

After considering certain factors, our team of doctors (anesthesiologist, plastic surgeon) will determine whether said individual should undergo sedation or general anesthesia.

The Surgery

Once the patient is appropriately anesthetized, our board certified plastic surgeon will make an incision between the patient’s public hairline and navel. After the initial cut is made, the surgeon will pull down and excise existing excess fat and skin. What remains will then be sewn together. The final stage of the procedure involved the creation of a new navel opening. When all surgical actions are completed, the incisions are closed.

The Recovery Period

Recovery time may vary depending upon a number of key issues such as the patient’s age, health, physical condition and the extent of the surgery performed.

Following surgery, the patient will likely be required to wear drainage devices to corral post-surgical bleeding. In many instances, the drainage devices need remain for a short, few day duration. The surgeon might prescribe blood clotting medications, as well as antibiotics to prevent infection.

Tummy tuck recipients will also need to wear a an abdominal binder, which is an apparatus that keeps the impacted area in place so movement will not unfasten stitches or damage the procedure. Usually, the binder is worn for a period lasting roughly six weeks. Additionally, the patient is advised to avoid significant physical activity such as lifting heavy objects or participation in strenuous exercise.

Potential Risks

All surgical procedures present the possibility of certain risks. Specific risks include:

• The onset of blood clots
• Excessive bleeding
• Scarring
• Infection
• Pain
• Skin problems

Intended Benefits

The most obvious benefit a tummy tuck could provide is an improved appearance to the patient’s abdominal region. In addition to the aesthetic attributes, the procedure might also produce positives such as:

• Improved mobility
• Stronger stomach muscles
• Increased strength
• Better posture

Every patient’s needs and desires are different. Therefore, tummy tuck could provide different benefits under different circumstances.