Tummy Tuck
(Abdominoplasty)

Abdominal lipectomy is a major surgical procedure performed in the hospital under general anesthesia. The operation is designed to remove excess sagging skin and fat from the lower abdominal region. It is most effected in those patients who have been overweight and have recently lost weight from successful dieting, leaving an excess of skin and underlying fat which will not shrink to conform to the new body shape.

In some patients it may be desirable to surgically tighten up the abdominal muscles at the same time the excess of skin and fat are removed. Your surgeon will decide if this is necessary in your situation.

HOSPITAL STAY

Two to three days depending on the individuals response to surgery.

SURGICAL TIME

Approximately 4 hours.

ANESTHESIA

General anesthesia.

SURGICAL PROCEDURE

There are a variety of incisions that may be used and your surgeon will select the one he feels is best for your particular problem. In many instances as incision is made just above the pubic area, from one hip to the other, while in other cases, a vertical incision may be added, especially if the patient already has a vertical abdominal scar. If the muscles that support the abdominal wall have separated, they will be tightened up as a part of the operation.

POSTOPERATIVE CARE

The patient is usually kept at bed-rest for the first few days. Drains (plastic tubes) may be used, exiting beneath the dressings and are attached to a suction device, for two to four days. Stitches are removed in seven to fourteen days. The patient is given proper medication at the time of hospital discharge if required.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

The patient should not accept advise from those who are not directly concerned with the operation. All medical questions should be directed to your surgeon. There are risks and possible complications associated with all surgical procedures and they will be discussed in detail with you by your surgeon.

MEDICATIONS

Take all medications EXACTLY as ordered. You may be requested to take some medicines before your surgery, DO NOT TAKE ASPIRIN OR ANY ASPIRIN CONTAINING COMPOUNDS FOR TWO WEEKS BEFORE OR AFTER YOUR SURGERY. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Valadol, Tempra) may be used on place of Asprin. AT THE FIRST SIGN OF HIVES OR A RASH, DISCONTINUE ALL MEDICATION AND CALL IMMEDIATELY.

SCARS

Surgical scars are permanent and fairly extensive depending upon the type of incision your surgeon performs. Often there is a single transverse scar which usually is covered by a bathing suit. Occasionally a vertical scar may also be present.

SHOWERS AND BATHS

The patient is restricted to sponge baths for about one week. Your surgeon will notify you when bathing is permitted.

SOCIAL ACTIVITY

Social activity is limited for approximately three weeks following surgery and strenuous activity is limited four about five weeks after surgery.

Coiffure procedures may be permitted at any time after discharge from the hospital.