Overview
A protruding abdomen as a result of weak abdominal muscles, weight gain or pregnancy is a condition that causes distress to thousands of people. This condition does not respond well to diet and exercise because the skin and underlying muscles have been stretched. Today a remarkable procedure called abdominoplasty has been designed to flatten a protruding abdomen through the tightening of abdominal wall muscles and removal of excess fatty tissue and skin.
Abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss. The objective of the surgery is to improve the contour of the body by flattening and narrowing the abdomen. The best candidate for the surgery is the individual who has weak abdominal muscles and excess skin and fat. Age, obesity and smoking habits are some of the factors the doctor considers when evaluating a candidate for this procedure.
Before Your Surgery
Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order to evaluate the general health of the patient. A careful examination is also conducted. We will discuss with the patient what can realistically be expected. Photographs will be taken before and after surgery. The type of anesthesia to be used, the procedure, and possible risks and complications are also discussed. Preoperative instructions will include the elimination of certain drugs which contain aspirin in order to minimize the possibility of excess bleeding. Antibiotics will be prescribed prior to surgery to prevent infection. The patient will also be advised to bathe with an antiseptic soap for several days prior to surgery.
Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty is performed in our certified surgical suite under general anesthesia. Premedication may be administered to relax the patient. Although there are several procedures from which to choose, the one most frequently involves a "u" shaped incision made below one hip bone and across the pubic area to under the other hip bone. A second incision is made around the navel. The skin is then separated from the abdominal wall and lifted up to the hip bone exposing the loose tissue that covers the abdominal muscle. Often lax abdominal muscles are sutured in order to tighten loose or stretched out muscles. The skin is then lowered over the abdomen and excess skin and fat is removed. Before the incisions are closed with small sutures, the navel is reconstructed, and usually drains are inserted to eliminate fluid buildup. Firm elastic bandages are then applied to the area.
When reviewing information about specific plastic surgery procedures, it is important to understand that the circumstances and experience of every individual are unique. If you are considering plastic surgery, please ask your plastic surgeon for further information about the particular procedure and what you can expect.
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