BODY COSMETIC PROCEDURES
NIPPLE RECONSTRUCTION

TUMMY TUCK

Abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck, is designed to correct a protruding abdomen resulting from weak abdominal muscles, weight gain, or pregnancy. Obesity causes the skin to lose its elasticity. These conditions may not respond well to diet or exercise if the skin and underlying muscles have been stretched.

With abdominoplasty, the abdominal wall muscles are tightened and excess fatty tissue and skin are removed to improve the body contour. The goal is a narrower, flatter abdomen. Realistic expectations are important. Abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss.

We consider age, obesity, and smoking habits when evaluating a candidate for this procedure.

Before Surgery
We will take a complete medical history and conduct a careful examination to evaluate your general overall health. Ideally, the abdominoplasty patient has no health problems and wishes only to remove an excess deposit of fat or loose abdominal skin. Patients on a weight-loss plan should be close to their target weight before having the

operation. Women planning future pregnancies should delay abdominoplasty, as pregnancy may promote further abdominal stretching.

Photographs will be taken before and after surgery.

Antibiotics will be prescribed prior to surgery to prevent infection. To minimize the possibility of excess bleeding, you will need to avoid taking aspirin or other antiinflammatory drugs for a period of time before and after surgery. You may also be advised to bathe with an antiseptic soap prior to surgery. Other specific preoperative instructions may be given prior to surgery.

The Procedure
Abdominoplasty is performed using general anesthesia. You may be given medication beforehand so you will feel relaxed. The surgery may take 2-5 hours, depending on the patient's overall condition. You may be released after a few hours, or you may require an overnight stay.

Recovery: What to Expect
You may experience some discomfort immediately following surgery, which can be controlled with medications. Some swelling is normal. You will be given special instructions for showering and changing your dressings. You may also be required to wear a support garment, and drain tubes may be used.

The speed of recovery depends on your physical condition prior to surgery; those with stronger abdominal muscles usually recover faster.

Some scarring is also normal. It often takes 9-12 months before the scars begin to fade.

Though the recovery period is longer than that of other cosmetic procedures, the rewards may be great for a patient previously distressed by a protruding abdomen. Those who follow a proper exercise routine and healthy diet will benefit from abdominoplasty the most.