Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a "tummy tuck," is a major surgical procedure to
remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles
of the abdominal wall.

Who is it for?

This procedure is ideal for those who are in relatively good shape but still have a large fat
deposit or loose abdominal skin that won't disappear despite much diet or exercise.

The surgery is also common for women who have undergone multiple pregnancies and have
stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal.
Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which also frequently occurs with slight obesity, can
also be improved.

The operation

The operation will usually take place under a general anesthetic. The length of the operation
will depend on the extent of the surgery, but it could take up four hours.

After the operation, you may find it hard to stand up straight and it will feel as if your stomach
is tugging – this will disappear over time. You may also experience numbness in your
abdominal area. Scars will be permanent, but will fade in time; although there is a risk that
puckering on the outside edge of the scar will remain.

The results

Your stomach should appear flatter and your abdominal muscles should feel and look firmer.