Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure to improve the appearance and contour of the abdomen.  This is accomplished by removing excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall.  Assuming that you maintain a balance of good diet and exercise after your surgery, the results are long lasting.

As with all surgeries, this procedure will leave a permanent scar.  Depending on the extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it, the scar may extend from hip to hip, just above the pubic hair line.  Usually, there will be an additional scar around the belly button.

The best candidates for abdominoplasty are men or women who are in good health and relatively good shape who have an excess of skin or fat in the lower abdominal area.  Individuals who have had previous abdominal surgeries or who have certain types of abdominal scars may not be good candidates for this procedure.  Obese individuals may also not be good candidates for this procedure.

If you intend to lose additional weight or plan to have future pregnancies, you should consider postponing this surgery.  You achieve the best result if you lose as much excess body weight as possible through your own diet and exercise program before surgery.  Abdominoplasty is not intended to be a weight-loss procedure.

If you would like to schedule a consultation to discuss abdominoplasty with Dr. Stieg or Dr. Paresi, please call our office at 407-647-4601.

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All Illustrations © 1999 by ASPRS (American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons)