When you ask people to identify a problem area on their body, most will name the tummy. Getting rid of accumulated fat in this area is extremely difficult. That is why you can be lean and still have a pot belly. Furthermore, natural processes like aging and childbirth can exacerbate this problem.  

Unfortunately, the human body makes it hard to lose weight even with the help of exercise and diet. After all, your metabolism slows down and adapts as you lose weight. Consider an abdominoplasty to regain the well-toned and flat stomach and waist you desire. 

What Is an Abdominoplasty?

Do you have excess skin or too much flab in your belly that does not respond to exercise or diet? If so, you should consider an abdominoplasty. An abdominoplasty, also called a tummy tuck, is an invasive procedure to flatten the abdomen by getting rid of excess skin and fat and tightening the abdominal wall. 

A tummy tuck is different from liposuction, but many patients choose to get lipo along with abdominoplasty. Before you get a tummy tuck, you should learn more about the procedure and what it entails. That will help you determine whether to go forward. 

The Procedure

A tummy tuck can remove excess skin, fix stretch marks, and tighten stomach muscles. It is ideal for people who want a slim and firm abdomen. Most people can resume their daily activities in two weeks. However, it can take several weeks to recover fully. Your results will be long-lasting if you follow your doctor’s instructions and maintain a stable weight. 

Here is what the procedure entails:

Anesthesia

Your cosmetic surgeon will recommend and administer medications to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Your choices include general anesthesia and intravenous sedation. 

Making an Incision

A full abdominoplasty requires a horizontal opening between the belly button and pubic hairline. The amount of excess skin on your tummy will determine the incision’s length and shape. The surgeon will lift your abdominal skin and repair the weakened abdominal muscles. 

You may require a second incision around the navel area to remove excess skin in your upper abdomen. The surgeon will pull down your upper abdominal skin like a window shade and trim excess skin before suturing the remaining skin. He/she will create a new belly button by popping it through the surface and suturing it into position. 

Closing the Incision

The process of closing the skin incision involves the use of sutures, clips, skin adhesives, or tapes. 

See the Results

Your procedure should result in a firmer, flatter abdominal curve that is more proportional to your weight and body type. 

Conclusion

Abdominoplasties are among the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States annually. A tummy tuck is an excellent way to create a firmer and flatter belly profile if diet and exercise are not delivering the desired results.

However, this procedure is ideal for patients close to their ideal body weight. A cosmetic surgeon can help you determine whether you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck.

For more on tummy tucks, visit Alan Matarasso MD, FACS, at our New York, New York office. Call 212-249-7500 to schedule an appointment today.