A tummy tuck removes excess skin and body fat, and tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall, resulting in a smoother and firmer profile.
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a reshaping and contouring of the abdomen. This surgical procedure targets the middle and lower abdomen, and can be performed in conjunction with gynecological procedures or liposuction (link to liposuction). A tummy tuck removes excess skin and body fat, and tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall, resulting in a smoother and firmer profile.
The causes for a less toned abdomen include aging (skin has lost its elasticity,) pregnancy (abdominal muscles and skin has stretched,) prior surgery, and significant fluctuations in weight (whether through dieting and exercising or bariatric surgery.) You should wait to consider this surgery after your weight loss goals have been met, or if you’re a woman and plan no future pregnancies. Your LSU Plastic Surgeon will review with you if now is the best time to consider your tummy tuck.
Generally, an abdominoplasty is done under general anesthesia and, depending on the complexity of the case, surgery can take one to five hours. Your limitations over the next several weeks will also be explained, outlining what you will need to do or not do. Your LSU Plastic Surgeon will review all surgical options, procedures and recovery time specific to your surgery.