Headquarters:
1804 Woodfield Drive
Savoy, IL 61874
(217) 359-7508
Other Illinois facilities:
2409 E. Washington Street
Bloomington, IL 61704
(309) 662-0436
(800) 252-7123
within IL only
View Gallery
Abdominoplasty describes a group of deformities that are corrected by many different body-contouring methods. In general, tummy tucks are designed to correct the abnormally loose skin, multiple wrinkling or folds which develop in the stomach, whether it be a result of aging, childbearing or rapid weight loss.
In the last few years, I have found that a large number of patients who would need to be treated by a tummy tuck procedure can now be taken care of by liposuction surgery (see section on liposuction). In some instances, but particularly when the person desires to get rid of most of the loose wrinkled skin, an abdominoplasty is necessary.
Abdominoplasty is done on an outpatient basis at our accredited operating suite. It may be combined with correction of umbilical hernias or poor musculature in the abdomen. In some instances these ancillary procedures are covered by insurance; however, most “straight” tummy tucks are not. I prefer to use general anesthesia.
An incision is carried out immediately above the pubic area (the hair bearing area of the genital area) and extending laterally toward the hip itself. Through this lower abdominal incision, the skin and fatty tissue may be elevated up to the rib cage. After the right amount of skin and fat has been removed, a new navel is created. The skin is stretched inferiorly and the excess skin and fatty tissue is completely removed. The stomach muscles are generally strengthened. The wound is closed with several rows of sutures.
After Surgery
Usually two drains are placed in the lower portion of the incision and these drains are removed within 24 hours of the surgery. A pressure bandage or girdle is worn for three weeks. Following surgery, there is moderate pain that is usually easily controlled with oral medication. Prescription support stockings should be worn at all times; light activities can be resumed immediately after surgery, and routine activities from the second day on with care to avoid heavy exertion. We recommend walking as the best all-around exercise. Abdominal crunches and exercises should be avoided for four weeks.
As with many surgeries, there are risks and complications with an abdominoplasty, which happen in approximately four to five percent of the cases. The risks include bleeding, which in most instances is minor, and requires only tapping of small blood collections with a needle. Occasionally the accumulation of fluid in the lower portion of the abdomen (seroma) will require similar treatment, removal by syringe. Although more serious complications like pulmonary embolism have been reported, they appear to be very rare and preventable.
An abdominoplasty should be considered as a trade-off by most patients. That is, they would be trading loose skin for a scar located in the area just described. Although this scar is completely hidden by bikinis or panties, it is necessary that the patient understand that an incision in the lower part of the abdomen is an absolute necessity for the performance of this surgery.
Other complications include skin-healing difficulties, usually related to tension in the wound. Most of these resolve without adverse complications. In the past few years, the combination of liposuction surgery and abdominoplasty have given us excellent results and whether this is applicable for your care will be discussed at length in your private consultation.
In selected cases, abdominoplasty can be carried out without incisions utilizing endoscopic techniques.
