Seattle Abdominoplasty Surgery - About Tummy Tuck Procedure

Abdominoplasty - (Tummy Tuck)

A Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure to aimed at reduction of excess skin and fatty tissue from the middle and lower abdomen, and may include a tightening of midline muscles of the abdominal wall. Abdominoplasty is not a procedure which can treat obesity, and should not be entered into with weight loss at the primary goal. Obese individuals are advised to seek qualified counseling by a physician and staff who offer comprehensive weight management programs. If you feel the need to lose weight, it is suggested that you do so prior to having a Tummy Tuck. Loss of weight after such surgery may reduce the effectiveness of such treatment.

Tummy Tucks are performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia in outpatient surgery centers or hospitals. Abdominoplasty can be combined with other forms of body-contouring surgery, including limited volume suction-assisted fat removal, or performed at the same time with other elective surgeries. There are several types of Tummy Tuck procedures, including limited ("mini-"), modified, or full abdominoplasty. Mini-abdominoplasty can only help tighten the lower abdominal skin (below the belly button), and the final scar is shorter than the modified or full abdominoplasties. Full abdominoplasties include additional muscle tightening and skin removal, with incisions extending to, or beyond, your hip bones. Some fat removal (liposuction) may be done at the same time, but can not be as extensive as could be provided after your Tummy Tuck has healed. Liposculpture is often performed 6-12 months after the Tummy Tuck to reach best results.

Recuperation time will depend on many factors, but is usually 2-4 weeks following the full abdominoplasty. You will be given specific instructions as to extent and types of activities recommended for the first several weeks. Having someone to assist you for the first 2-3 days if often an advantage, as you will have stiffness and limited mobility in the early days following surgery of this type.

Before & After Photos [GO]