Abdominoplasty Questions

Q - What is abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is plastic surgery procedure which removes excess skin and fat of the middle and lower abdomen, producing a flatter and more toned appearance.

Q - Is abdominoplasty right for me?
If you are healthy and in relatively good shape but are looking to reduce excess abdominal skin and fat that has proven resistant to diet and exercise, you may be a good candidate for abdominoplasty. A partial abdominoplasty, also known as a mini tummy tuck, is a less extensive technique which may be an option for patients whose fat deposits are limited to the area below the navel.

Q - What does a consultation for abdominoplasty entail?
During a consultation for abdominoplasty, Dr. Berman will evaluate your health, take a through medical history, assess your skin tone, and determine the extent of fat deposits in your abdominal region. Your goals will be discussed and all aspects of the procedure will be explained including the technique, the anesthesia, the facility, the recovery, the risks, the costs and so on.

Q - What type of anesthesia is used for abdominoplasty?
General anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation may be used for abdominoplasty.

Q - How is abdominoplasty performed?
The incision for abdominoplasty is located just above the pubic area running from hipbone to hipbone, and a second smaller incision is made around the navel. Working through the incisions, the abdominal muscles are tightened, excess skin and fat are removed, and the skin is pulled tight. The navel has a new hole cut for it and is stitched into place. For a partial abdominoplasty, a smaller incision is made and the second incision around the navel may not be necessary.

Q - How long does abdominoplasty take to perform?
A full abdominoplasty takes between two and five hours to perform, while a partial abdominoplasty can take one to two hours.

Q - Where are the incisions made for abdominoplasty?
The incision for abdominoplasty runs from hipbone to hipbone just above the pubic area, and a second smaller incision is made around the navel. Partial abdominoplasty involves a smaller incision and the second incision around the navel may not be necessary.

Q - Does abdominoplasty leave scars?
The incision made for abdominoplasty does result in a scar and can be extensive as it is located above the pubic area from hipbone to hipbone, along with a smaller incision which is made around the navel. Scarring is less extensive for a partial abdominoplasty as the incision is a smaller one.

Q - Does abdominoplasty involve much pain?
There may be some discomfort after abdominoplasty which can be controlled with medication.

Q - What is the recovery like after abdominoplasty?
Recovery generally takes two to four weeks after abdominoplasty. Patients can expect some swelling and bruising and this may take several weeks to several months to fade. In addition, a support garment will need to be worn around the abdomen for a period of time.

Q - When will I be able to return to work after undergoing abdominoplasty?
Patients may be able to return to work in two to four weeks after the abdominoplasty procedure.

Q - How soon will I be able to exercise after my abdominoplasty procedure?
Patients will need to wait at least four to six weeks before partaking in strenuous activities and exercise.

Q - When will my stitches be removed after my abdominoplasty procedure?
The stitches are removed in about five to seven days after the abdominoplasty procedure.

Q - What are the risks or complications associated with abdominoplasty?
All surgery carries potential risks. Those associated with abdominoplasty may include infection, bleeding and poor healing.

Q - Is abdominoplasty covered by insurance?
Insurance generally does not cover abdominoplasty procedures performed for purely cosmetic purposes, though patients should be sure to check with their own insurance companies.

Q - Can I finance my abdominoplasty procedure?
Financing is available for many plastic surgery procedures.

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