A tummy tuck operation, or abdominoplasty, can be a good solution to excess skin and fat around the belly that is not responding to a regimen of diet and exercise. Much like liposuction, adominoplasty is a generally elective, cosmetic surgical procedure to shape the body in specific, controlled aspects. Unlike liposuction, wherein very small incisions are made into which a tube called a cannula is inserted that utilizes suction to remove fat deposits but does not remove skin, a tummy tuck uses a much larger incision, usually from hip bone to hip bone. This gives a surgeon access to tighten the abdominal muscles, and excess skin can then be cut away. The remaining skin can then be pulled more tightly together and sutured. This tends to leave a lengthy scar, but also a flatter contour. Each year, roughly 80,000 Americans undergo this procedure.
The purpose of abdominoplasty is not weight loss. Dr. Antoine Hallak of San Diego points out that the best candidates for this procedure are those who are in essentially good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose skin on their abdomen that won't respond to diet or exercise. Dr. Hallak further explains that those who wish to lose a lot of weight should postpone this procedure. Women with intentions for future pregnancy should also wait, he says, as certain muscles that are tightened in the abdomen during surgery can become separated again during pregnancy.
Those with excess abdominal skin, weak abdominal muscles, and those with a disproportional abdomen or fat tissue concentrated in the abdominal area, but who are otherwise in relatively good shape, are the best candidates for this type of procedure. Partly this is because of the operative complications that can be introduced by poor health. Smoking and conditions of the vascular system tend to slow healing. Bleeding, infection, failure to heal properly, and tissue loss along portions of the incision are all potential complications of a procedure like this, and although steps are always taken to minimize risk, it remains a part of any surgery.
Frank, honest communication with one's doctor, along with strict adherence to that doctor's instructions regarding pre-operative preparation and post-operative care, are a patient's best defense against complications and disappointment with any procedure. This includes realistic expectations. Dr. Hallak reminds patients that it may take weeks to feel like themselves again, and as much as a year before their scars flatten out and lighten in color. Following surgery, the best practices for protecting the investment are those that are positive for the skin and body in general: sun protection, avoiding smoking, balanced diet, and regular exercise.
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