A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is surgery to remove excess fat and skin from the abdomen. Abdominal muscles that have been weakened or separated can also be corrected with a tummy tuck. The most common causes of loose or sagging skin on the stomach are heredity, multiple pregnancies, prior surgery and significant fluctuations in weight. This procedure is common among patients who have undergone gastric bypass surgery and have excess abdominal skin.

An abdominoplasty can be combined with liposuction to help achieve optimal body contouring results.

The Procedure
A tummy tuck is usually performed under general anesthesia. A horizontal incision is made in the area between the pubic area and navel, hidden below the panty line. Through this incisions weakened abdominal muscle are repaired and excess fat, tissue, and skin is removed. Where correction is isolated to the area below the navel, a mini tummy tuck with a shorter incision may be recommended. There may also be an incision around the belly button. The surgery is individualized to each patient so that incision length and pattern depend on each patient’s personal preferences as to the amount and location of excess skin to be removed.

Recovery
After the procedure, dressings and bandages may be applied to the incisions, and a compression garment may be used to minimize swelling and to support the abdomen as it heals. Within a few days after surgery a return to normal, light activities will be possible. In a couple of weeks, you can return to work aside from heavy lifting and rigorous exercise.

Results
Your tummy tuck will result almost immediately in a flatter, firmer, abdominal contour that is more appropriate for your body type and weight. It may take several months for your final result to fully develop and for the numbness to resolve. In a year or more the incision lines refine to some degree. Although they are permanent, these scars are hidden by most clothing and swimsuits.

Risks
Post-operative complications such as infection and blood clots are rare, but can occur. You can minimize the risk of blood clots by moving around as soon after the surgery as possible. You can reduce your risk of complications by closely following your surgeon's instructions before and after the surgery, especially with regard to when and how you should resume physical activity.