An Alternative to Tummy Tucks

Tummy Tuck Surgery

During a tummy tuck operation, the surgeon makes a long horizontal incision just above your pubic area. The surgeon will generally try to make the incision within your bathing suit lines, so that the scar will be less visible. Sometimes however, this is not possible.

After the incision is made, the surgeon separates the skin from the abdominal wall, and lifts it all the way up to your rib cage. The abdominal muscles are then tightened, and the excess skin, which is pulled down by the surgeon, is removed.

The surgeon also cuts a new hole for your navel, which is then stitched in place. Finally, the incisions will be sutured closed, dressings will be applied, and a temporary tube may be inserted to drain excess fluid from the surgical site.

Pros:

• Tummy tucks can be an effective way to get rid of loose skin around the abdomen.

Cons:

• Tummy tucks are not suitable for people with excess fat deposits outside of the abdominal area.
• The surgery will leave a permanent scar along your lower abdomen.
• A tummy tuck is a major surgical operation, that may carry increased risk of complications.
• Tummy tucks may take a long time to complete -- anywhere from two to five hours -- depending on the amount of work required.
• Recovery time may be longer than with other cosmetic procedures.