1. Where are the incisions made for abdominoplasty?

The usual incision for a tummy tuck extends from the anterior pelvis (which you can feel) in the lower abdomen down to the suprapubic area and back to the anterior iliac spine on the other side. Most surgeons use this type of incision which is usually hidden in the "bikini line". I tend to usually make this a gentle curve but may modify somewhat to accommodate a previous scar, etc. In some cases, this incision can be elongated somewhat. In patients who have had profound weight losses, this incision can be carried all around the flanks and back to perform a total body lift.


2. What kind of pain medication is used for this surgery?

I typically hospitalize patients overnight following a tummy tuck during which intravenous morphine is given for pain relief. At discharge a potent po narcotic is provided (usually Percocet). I also generally give prescriptions for a muscle relaxant and sometimes for Celebrex, which tend to diminish the Percocet requirements.


3. Is it advisable to do multiple procedures at one time?

There are advantages and disadvantages to combining multiple procedures. The advantages are a single period of downtime and also economic advantages (I discount secondary procedures somewhat). The disadvantage is a longer period of anesthesia and the potential for a higher complication rate. In general, if a patient is relatively healthy, I have no problem combining a tummy tuck with an augmentation or reduction, for example.


4. Is it better to lose weight before or after a tummy tuck?

It is definitely advantageous to be at or near one's ideal body weight when undergoing a tummy tuck. Not only will the result likely to be better, but the complication rate increases a bit when body surface area increases. The other concern is that if a patient loses a significant amount of weight following a tummy tuck, she/he may create the excess skin deformity once again.


5. Will my abdominoplasty be paid for by my insurance?

Abdominoplasty is not, and should not be, covered by your insurance. In my practice, tummy tucks have been covered by insurance only on one or two occasions. These patients had rare significant accompanying medical problems which the abdominoplasty improved.


6. How soon will I be able to exercise after my abdominoplasty procedure?

Patients may walk soon after undergoing a tummy tuck. I recommend that patients delay any significant straining or lifting for at least six weeks. I also suggest that patients refrain from golf, tennis, etc. for six weeks. I feel patients should delay abdominal crunches for three to four months.


7. When will my stitches be removed after my abdominoplasty procedure?

For the most part, I use stitches that dissolve when performing a tummy tuck. The suture material I use requires several weeks to dissolve, however, and sometimes will "spit" through the skin, especially where the knots are located at the ends of the incisions. I do place nylon sutures around the new belly button. These are usually removed in 10-14 days.