Abdominoplasty Surgery
Abdominoplasty Surgery
While situps and crunches can help strengthen and develop core abdominal muscles, they do not address stubborn belly fat and loose skin. If your goal is to have a flat stomach after significant weight loss, an abdominoplasty can remove excess skin and fat and, in most cases, restore weakened or separated abdominal muscles for a smoother and firmer abdominal profile.
What Is Abdominoplasty Tummy Tuck?
An abdominoplasty surgery or tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to enhance the shape and appearance of the abdomen. It involves removing the excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and tightening the abdominal muscles using sutures to help create a firmer and more contoured midsection.
The abdominoplasty procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals who have loose skin due to factors like pregnancy or significant weight loss. Individuals with compromised health conditions, such as advanced cardiopulmonary disease, cirrhosis and uncontrolled diabetes, are not ideal candidates for this procedure. Additionally, smoking significantly hinders the outcomes of abdominoplasty procedures due to its negative impact on blood supply, which is crucial during the surgical process.
The following two types of abdominoplasty surgery are both performed under a general anesthetic:
In a partial abdominoplasty surgery:
- A large incision is made across the lower abdomen.
- The skin is separated from the abdominal wall below the belly button.
- Excess fat and skin are removed.
- The remaining skin is pulled together and stitched in place.
In a complete abdominoplasty surgery:
- A large incision is made across the lower abdomen, extending from hip to hip just above the pubic area.
- A second incision is made to free the belly button from the surrounding tissue.
- The skin is separated from the abdominal wall.
- Abdominal muscles are realigned.
- Excess fat and skin are removed.
- A new hole is created for the belly button, which is then stitched back in place.
- The remaining skin is pulled together and stitched to achieve the desired contour.
Understanding that an abdominoplasty surgery is not a quick fix for weight loss is essential. Instead, it addresses specific aesthetic concerns related to excess skin and muscle laxity. Typically, abdominoplasty surgery is recommended for individuals with a healthy body mass index (BMI). BMI measures body fat based on height and weight, which applies to adult men and women. To calculate the BMI, divide a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters. A higher BMI value can indicate greater body fat. However, it is essential to note that BMI screens for weight categories associated with potential health issues. It does not directly diagnose an individual's body fat profile or overall health.
Remember that a tummy tuck is a personalized procedure, and individuals considering it should consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine the most suitable approach for their specific needs.
Let us help determine if abdominoplasty surgery is right for you. Call us at 210-600-9110, and we'll provide you with helpful information and assist you in making an appointment.