Surgery of the Abdomen (abdominoplasty)

Abdominoplasty is a common procedure for both men and women. in instances where exercise and diet are not getting you the response you desire for your abdomen; abdominoplasty can help. In cases where patients have had some type of bariatric surgery and a significant amount of weight has been lose, they end up with an abundance of skin and fat in the abdomen.

What to expect from the consultation: During this visit you should expect to sit at length with your doctor and discuss your goals for surgery. It is important to be informative about:

• Past surgeries
• Past and current medical conditions
• Any medications and vitamins you are currently taking
• Any and all supplement you are using
• Allergies to drugs, foods, dyes and rubber

How the surgery is performed: Usually a horizontal incision is made across the pubic area, sometimes hip to hip, or just above the swimsuit line depending on where you prefer to have it placed. The muscles are tightened and excess skin and fat is removed. It may be necessary to place another incision around the umbilical for those with more skin to be removed. Drains may be placed to help with the accumulation of fluid.

What to expect after the surgery: The first week after surgery your drain tubes might be removed, swelling and bruising will occur. Your stitches will come out 7-10 days after surgery. You will need to wear a support binder. After several weeks, bruising and swelling will subside, you will be able to move about more freely and can increase you activity slowly. After 6 weeks you can stop wearing the binder and drive. You should be realistic about your time line of healing. You may take up to 8 months after surgery for the swelling to subside.