- abdominal etching - abdominoplasty - liposuction - weightloss body contouring

Abdominoplasty

Who is a candidate?

• If you have loose or sagging abdominal wall skin frequently associated with abnormal relaxation of the anterior abdominal wall muscles (frequently due to multiple pregnancies).
  
• If you are unable to tighten abdominal wall skin with exercise.
  
• If you have stretch marks due to previous pregnancies.

Intended results

• A smoother flatter abdomen with a more shapely side contour.
  
• Smaller belly button with upper hooding.

Procedure description

• The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia.
  
• Mini-abdominoplasties are only for a select group of patients that have a small amount of excess fat and skin of the lower abdomen.
  
• A standard abdominoplasty also tightens the abdominal wall, which results in a more contoured abdomen.
  
• The scar for the standard abdominoplasty extends across the lower abdomen and can go as far back as the lower back.

Recuperation and healing

• Abdominoplasty can be somewhat uncomfortable immediately after the operation and will require a certain level of commitment in the recuperating period.
  
• You will be able to go home the day of the operation.
  
• You will be encouraged to walk and move regularly within 1-2 days of the operation.
  
• Light activity will be comfortable in 10 days. Sports will not be comfortable for about 6 weeks.
• A pain pump (On-Q) and our regimen of pain medications create a comfortable post-operative period.

Other options

• Additional procedures that may enhance the result are Liposuction and Breast Procedures.
  
• The On-Q Pain Pump is strongly recommended for this procedure