subject: Questions about Abdominoplasty [print this page] Have you heard about or even been considering abdominoplasty but have many questions about the procedure? If so, then you are in luck because here are some questions and answers that many people have about the procedure.
What is an abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty is a more technical name for tummy tuck. It literally means "abdomen reshaping" surgery. The procedure is designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen and generally also involves tightening of the abdominal muscles.
What is the goal of an abdominoplasty?
The goal of an abdominoplasty is to improve the appearance of a person's belly by removing skin and fat that cannot be improved by diet and exercise. The tightening of abdominal muscles is also crucial to creating a firm foundation for good abdominoplasty results.
What causes excess skin and fat in the abdomen?
For many people, genes are primarily to blame for abdominal fat and skin. Many people just deposit fat there, leading to stretched skin and muscle detachment. This belly fat may be the last removed, often only after the person has dropped below a normal, healthy body fat content. Even if more-than-normal weight gain is to blame, the loss of fat may leave slack, hanging skin behind. Women have the additional problem that pregnancies can stretch abdominal muscles and lead to stretched skin and fat deposition in the abdominal area and stretch marks.
Will an abdominoplasty remove my stretch marks?
Abdominoplasty removes some skin, and therefore it is possible that some stretch marks will be removed. Others will be repositioned (generally lower on the abdomen), and others will be unaffected. The only way to know for sure how your stretch marks will be affected is by scheduling a consultation with a plastic surgeon who can evaluate your stretch marks.
Is abdominoplasty painful?
Abdominoplasty is major surgery and is generally associated with a significant amount of discomfort. Discomfort levels vary widely among patients, but for most patients it can be controlled with medications during surgery and recovery. You may have a nerve block, a pain pump, and prescriptions for pain medication to help you recover from the procedure.
Does abdominoplasty leave a scar?
All surgery leaves scars. However, abdominoplasty is performed in such a way that the scar is low on the abdomen, easily concealed by most underwear, swimsuits, and other clothing. The procedure will also be performed so as to minimize the appearance of the scar, and you will be given postoperative instructions to help the scar heal with the best possible appearance.
How long is abdominoplasty recovery?
Recovery can be highly variable. However, most surgeons recommend that you count on taking 1-2 weeks off from even non-strenuous work, and avoid strenuous activities for four to six weeks.
How much does abdominoplasty cost?
According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the average physician's fee for an abdominoplasty was $5381 in 2009. However, once additional fees are added in, the total procedure cost can average over $8000. Costs vary widely from physician to physician, with total costs as low as $3500 and as high as $15,000 being reported. However, it is important for people to make quality of care their number one criterion in selecting a physician and not shop on the basis of price.
