Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a "tummy tuck," is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen. Loose or sagging skin is removed, the abdominal musculature is restored to its normal contour, and the abdomen appears “rejuvenated”. Removing skin folds, scarring and stretch marks improve the appearance and profile of the lower abdomen.

People who have loose abdominal skin and fat that is concentrated in the abdomen can benefit from abdominoplasty. Sometimes these conditions are inherited. In other instances, substantial weight loss may cause abdominal skin to become flaccid. Abdominoplasty may also tighten muscles that have been separated and weakened by pregnancy.

How should I prepare for surgery?

You will first have a thorough consultation at The Cosmetic Surgey Clinic with Dr. Shenker to determine your goals for your abdominoplasty. Dr. Shenker’s Patient Coordinator will guide you through all the details of the planning process for your procedure, including financing, scheduling, and paperwork.

Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of time before surgery. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery.

You are to have nothing to eat or drink for the twelve hours immediately before your surgery.

How is an abdominoplasty performed?

Abdominoplasty is a three step procedure. First, the contour of the abdomen is improved by repositioning the muscles of the abdominal wall. Second, excess skin and fat is removed. Third, liposuction is used to contour the abdominal wall and flanks. The incision required starts at the pubic hair line and extends horizontally towards each hip. The length of the incision depends entirely on the anatomy to be corrected and your goals.

What will the day of surgery be like?

You will arrange for someone to drive you to The Cosmetic Surgery Clinic and to pick you up after the procedure. Our staff will assist you with planning for your ride home.

Our surgical staff will ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure. The procedure is done under a general anesthetic. Typically, an abdominoplasty requires two to three hours. In many instances, a small drain tube will be placed within the abdominal tissues to reduce swelling. You will have an automatic pump to administer local anesthetic directly into your surgical site to greatly reduce any discomfort. Gauze or other dressings will be applied to your abdomen.

Following your surgery, you will be taken into our recovery area where you will be closely monitored. You will be in the comfort of your own home approximately two to three hours after surgery.

How will I look and feel initially?

You will notice swelling and bruising which will disappear over a period of weeks. However, it may be months before all swelling subsides and you see the final result of your abdominoplasty. You may notice some numbness over portions of the abdominal area, and this may persist for several months. Incisions will initially be red or pink in colour. They will remain this way for many months following surgery and may even appear to worsen before they finally begin to fade.

Starting the day of or morning after your surgery, you should walk short distances every few hours to promote blood circulation. At first, this may be a walk from your bedroom to your kitchen.

You should not stand perfectly straight for a few days, to avoid tension on the lower abdomen. However you should move around to promote blood circulation. It is not recommended to sit for long periods of time during the first several days.

Any straining, bending and lifting must be avoided as these activities may cause swelling or bleeding.

Within 48 hours following your surgery you will have a follow-up appointment at the Clinic. Your drain will be removed between three to five days after surgery, at which time your dressings may also be changed or removed. You will be instructed to wear a support garment for six weeks. Generally, stitches will dissolve.

A second follow up appointment will be scheduled for two weeks after your surgery. A third follow up appointment will take place three to six months after your surgery. You will then be invited to return yearly for on-going follow up.

When can I resume my normal activities?

It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals. Depending on the extent of your abdominoplasty and your general physical condition, you may be able to return to non-strenuous work two to three weeks after surgery. In many instances, you can resume most of your normal activities, including some form of mild exercise after four weeks. You may continue to experience some mild, periodic discomfort and swelling during this time, but such feelings are normal. Severe pain should be reported to The Cosmetic Surgery Clinic.

Any sexual activity should be avoided for a minimum of two weeks, and Dr. Shenker may advise you to wait longer.

Results of your abdominoplasty

The incisions from the procedure will heal and fade over time. It is important to realize, however that the incision lines will be permanently visible. In some instances, they will eventually be only faint lines. Certain individuals may have incision lines that are more noticeable. Fortunately, the incisions for your Abdominoplasty are usually in locations concealed by most bathing suits and undergarments.

Abdominoplasty will enhance your body contour by making your abdomen firmer and flatter. You may find that you feel more comfortable in your clothing and are more confident about your appearance.

How long will results last?

Your abdomen should remain firmer and flatter for many years, unless, of course you gain or lose a significant amount of weight or become pregnant. However, gravity and the effects of aging will eventually take their toll. If, after a period of years, you become dissatisfied with the appearance of your abdomen, you may choose to undergo a second procedure to restore a more youthful body contour.

What if I have more questions?

You may contact The Cosmetic Surgery Clinic at any time if you have questions or concerns: 519.746.1132