Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

An abdominoplasty, or "tummy tuck", is a surgical procedure which smoothes, or flattens, the abdominal area. Often, this is accomplished by removing excess skin and fat from the lower and middle portions of the abdomen and tightening the abdominal muscles. As not all abdomens are alike, Dr. Shuster specializes in tailoring the procedure to the particular needs of his patients. For some patients, who just have laxity of the lower abdomen, a partial or Mini-Abdominoplasty may be all that is required. For others, who have a wider area of laxity, or more loose skin, a full abdominoplasty may be a better choice. An abdominoplasty allows Dr. Shuster to remove redundant or lax skin and at the same time tighten the underlying abdominal muscles rejuvenating the appearance of the abdomen. To accomplish this, an incision is made across the lower abdomen at approximately the level of the pubic hair and extends towards either side of the abdomen. Dr. Shuster uses a "bikini line' incision which is well concealed by bikini bottoms or panties.

Following significant weight loss, pregnancy, or just the passage of time, it is common for the skin of the abdomen not to return to its normal contour and quality. Stretch marks may be present. When a significant amount of hanging skin results, this is called a pannis, or apron. Such a pannis can interfere with many of the normal activities of daily living, make exercise difficult and even become a hygiene problem. When an abdominoplasty involves removing a large amount of excess skin, it is referred to as a panniculectomy.

An abdominoplasty can produce a significant improvement in body contour. The surgery usually takes 2 to 3 hours and is performed under anesthesia. Following surgery there are two drains in place which require some care and are usually removed during the first week after surgery. Patients usually take 1 to 2 weeks off from work depending upon the extent of surgery and their occupation. Also depending upon the extent of surgery, it may be performed on an outpatient basis or with an overnight stay in the hospital. Patients can gradually return to their normal level of activity and can usually resume exercise 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. Following an abdominoplasty there is always a scar from the incision and this fades with time.

Types of Abdominoplasty

Dr. Shuster sees each abdominoplasty as a unique opportunity to help his patients achieve their desired improvement. It is with this philosophy in mind that he tailors the procedure to the individual patient's anatomy and needs. In general, there are 3 types of abdominoplasty procedures.

Mini-Abdominoplasty

The Mini-Abdominoplasty is the procedure of choice for women whose primary concern is a lower abdominal bulge but do not have much, if any, redundant skin. For such women whose bulge is due to laxity of underlying muscles and tissue, the Mini-Abdominoplasty is the procedure of choice. During this procedure a short incision is made at the level of the pubic hair and the abdominal muscles below the belly button are tightened creating a very flat appearance to the area.

Modified Abdominoplasty

A modified abdominoplasty treats patients who have a modest amount of skin laxity, particularly over the lower abdomen. An incision is made across the lower abdomen which allows Dr. Shuster to remove excess skin and at the same time tighten the abdominal muscle

Abdominoplasty

Dr. Shuster's technique for abdominoplasty is called a "High Lateral Tension Abdominoplasty". This procedure works very well for patients who have laxity over much of the abdomen, particularly the lower half. An incision is made across the lower abdomen within the bikini line and around the belly button. Dr. Shuster's preference is for this incision to be placed as inconspicuously as possible. This allows Dr. Shuster to essentially rejuvenate the abdominal area by narrowing the waist, tightening the muscles, and removing redundant tissue.

Location of Surgery

Dr. Shuster performs most abdominoplasty surgeries in our certified operating suite. For patients who are having more extensive procedures, patients who prefer, or patients who may have a medical condition, he performs these surgeries in the hospital often with an overnight stay.

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Recovery

The recovery following an abdominoplasty varies from patient to patient and upon the type of procedure. Patients should rest and relax during the first week after surgery. During the second week they can begin to resume activities. Depending upon their occupation and the type of procedure they have, some patients will return to work at this time. During the third week after surgery patients resume their normal, non-exertional activities. Exercise can be resumed 4 to 6 weeks following surgery.

Results

While patients are generally able to see changes in their appearance shortly after surgery, the results become even more apparent as the swelling subsides. This typically takes several weeks. The results of abdominoplasty surgery are permanent. However excessive weight gain or pregnancies can jeopardize the final results.

Complications

As with any surgery, complications can occur following an abdominoplasty. These include bleeding, infection, fluid collections and wound healing problems. Some of these may require additional surgery. Dr. Shuster will discuss these with you in detail.

Follow Up

Follow up. Dr. Shuster and his staff are committed to his patients' care and well being. Dr. Shuster sees his patients frequently in the postoperative period and continues to follow their progress for an extended period. The staff are also available to assist patients with any needs they may have.

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