Definition:
Abdominal wall surgery is voluntary (elective) surgery that improves the appearance of flabby, stretched-out abdominal muscles and skin. Such surgery is often called a "tummy tuck." It is a different procedure than liposuction.
Alternative Names:
Cosmetic surgery of the abdomen; Tummy tuck; Abdominoplasty
Description:
Cosmetic repair of the abdomen can help improve appearance, especially after massive weight gain and loss. Abdominoplasty can help flatten the lower abdomen and tighten stretched skin.
The surgery is done in a hospital's operating room. You will receive general anesthesia, so you will be deep asleep and pain-free during the procedure. The surgeon will make a cut across the abdomen, just above the pubic area. Excessive fatty tissue and loose skin are removed from the middle and lower sections of the abdomen. The abdominal muscles may be tightened.
Stitches are used to close the surgical cut. Excess skin and fat can also be removed from the arms and legs.
Small flat tubes (drains) may be inserted to allow fluid to drain out of the surgical cuts. A firm elastic dressing is applied to the abdomen.
Indications:
Abdominoplasty can be helpful when:
- Diet and exercise have not corrected severe muscle weakness, for instance, after multiple pregnancies
- Skin and muscle cannot regain its normal tone, which can occur with obesity
Abdominoplasty is not used as a substitute for weight reduction.
Risks:
The risks of bleeding and infection are present for all surgeries. Additional risks of blood clots and infection also exist.
Expectations after surgery:
You will feel some pain and discomfort for several days after surgery, which can be managed with pain medications. Resting with the legs and hips bent may reduce pressure on the abdomen during the recommended 1 - 3 day hospital stay.
Convalescence:
An elastic support similar to a girdle, worn for 2 - 3 weeks, provides extra abdominal support while healing. Strenuous activity and straining should be avoided for 4 weeks.
The scars will become lighter in color and flatter during the next 3 - 6 months.
References:
Townsend CM, Beauchamp RD, Evers BM, Mattox KL. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery, 17th ed. St. Louis, M0: WB Saunders; 2004.
Review Date: 7/25/2007
Reviewed By: Robert A. Cowles, MD, Assistant Professor of Surgery, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only - they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2008 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.