Abdominal Wall Surgery
Alternate Names : Abdominoplasty, Cosmetic Surgery of the Abdomen, Tummy Tuck
Definition Abdominal wall surgery is optional surgery to treat flabby, stretched-out abdominal muscles and skin to improve appearance. Excessive fatty tissue and loose skin are removed from the middle and lower sections of the abdomen and the abdominal muscles may be tightened. Note that this is a different procedure than liposuction.
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Overview & Description
Cosmetic repair of the abdomen can be helpful in improving appearance, especially after massive weight gain and loss. Abdominoplasty can help flatten the lower abdomen and tighten stretched skin.
The patient is admitted to the hospital and the surgery is performed in the operating room. General anesthesia is used to keep the patient deep asleep and pain-free. An incision is made across the abdomen, just above the pubic area.
Excess skin and fat are removed from the abdominal wall, from the pubic area to the rib cage, around the umbilicus and the abdominal muscles are tightened. The incision is stitched (sutured) closed. Excess skin and fat can also be removed from the arms and legs.
Small flat tubes (drains) may be inserted and used for a few days to allow fluid to drain out of the incisions. A firm elastic dressing is applied to the abdomen.
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