Abdominoplasty

After pregnancy, weight loss or just plain aging, many people find themselves with excess skin and fat around the belly and decreased strength and tone of the muscles beneath. Abdominoplasty or “tummy tuck” addresses these problems for both women and men. The result is improved body contour and a smoother shape to the abdomen. During the surgery an incision is made within the “bikini” or “boxer” line under the abdomen; this helps to hide the scar under clothes following the procedure. Excess skin and fat are removed, the muscle beneath is tightened, the skin is redraped to provide a pleasing body shape, and often the belly button is moved to a new position within the newly contoured abdomen. In certain cases, a “mini-abdominoplasty” can be appropriate, particularly when the excess fat and skin is located in the lower abdomen.   Also,  abdominoplasty is sometimes combined with liposuction for further fat removal and body contouring. Dr. Diehl will work with you to develop an operative plan that addresses your individual needs.

 

During your consultation at Diehl Plastic Surgery, Dr. Diehl will examine you and discuss recommendations for the specific type of abdominoplasty to yield the best results. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis. It is performed under general anesthesia to minimize discomfort during the procedure.  Most patients return to work about ten to fourteen days after surgery. Dr. Diehl usually will use drains to remove excess fluid and these may be in place for several days following surgery. There may be some bruising for a week or so and some swelling for a few weeks following surgery.

Keep in mind that every person’s body is different.  Your recovery time may be very different from someone else with a similar procedure.  Dr. Diehl will present you with all of the information you need to understand the range of outcomes, and how to best-maintain your improved body shape.