What is a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen. There are several different types of abdominoplasty, and the technique best suited to each individual is chosen by the surgeon.

How long does tummy tuck surgery take?

Usually about two and a half to three hours. There is about an hour in the recovery room, and then the patient goes home!

What are the benefits of a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck is one of the most powerful and life-changing procedures in plastic surgery. The removal of excess skin and the tightening of abdominal muscles will give the abdomen a flatter and firmer appearance in most people. To be honest, those patients who have a lot of internal fat (looks like a basket ball!) will not see a dramatic change in their contour -- they will see an improvement in loose skin, though. But for most people, a tummy tuck will tighten the abdomen and will decrease the width of the waistline. Stretch marks below the belly button will be removed, and those above the belly button will end up under the waist line. Clothes will fit better. Just imagine the increase in self-confidence!

Who is an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck?

The ideal candidate for a tummy tuck is in relatively good physical shape,has excess skin or fat in the abdominal area that is won't go away with exercise. Pregnancy often loosens the abdominal muscles, and most tummy tucks are done on women after they have had children --for these women, the skin and muscles have stretched beyond the point where they can naturally return to their normal location and shape. Anothe group of patients are those who have lost a lot of weight, either by diet and exercise or weight-loss surgery. They sually have an enormous amount of excess skin in the abdominal area. Finally, the normal aging process causes skin to sag or lose elasticity, making many healthy older patients excellent tummy tuck candidates.