Abdominoplasty is performed with the patient under general anesthesia. There are numerous surgical options to consider when the surgery is performed, which will be tailored to each patient’s current condition.

First, the incision length is determined based on the amount of excess skin. Some patients with an abundance of sagging skin may require a full tummy tuck. This abdominoplasty technique places the incision along the lower abdomen from hip to hip, just above the pubic region. Other patients who are concerned with minimal skin wrinkling may be better suited for a less invasive technique. Men and women who receive this treatment still benefit from an abdominoplasty but will simply receive a smaller scar. Regardless of the method, all tummy tuck procedures involve the removal of hanging skin and fat removal.

When abdominoplasty surgery is completed, you will be monitored and released wearing a compression garment to help control swelling. Standing upright and walking will be difficult at first, so you should rest for several days. Standing becomes easier once the abdominal muscles adjust and the incision begins to heal. Most patients can generally resume a normal routine around two weeks. Exercise can resume later, closer to two months, or when you are cleared by your surgeon. The abdomen will feel some discomfort and tightness, but you will feel healthy and normal again after recovering.