Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Sometimes after multiple pregnancies or large weight loss, abdominal muscles weaken, and skin in the area becomes flaccid. Abdominoplasty can tighten the abdominal muscles and, in some instances, improve stretch marks. In men and women who have fat that is concentrated in the abdomen, but who are otherwise of relatively normal weight, the procedure will remove excess skin and fat. The surgery will not eliminate minor wrinkling or take the place of dieting, but it can improve a loss of skin elasticity in combination with slight obesity in older individuals. Dr. Swift performs several variations of this procedure according to the size, shape and skin tone of the area.
In a standard abdominoplasty, Dr. Swift works through a low abdominal incision that spans the hips, and allows access to tighten the abdominal muscles. Because sagging skin will be pulled down over the abdomen before it is removed, in most cases it is necessary to release the navel from its surrounding skin and bring it out through a new skin opening. Resulting scars across the pubic area and around the navel are permanent but flatten and lighten in colour over time.
In some instances when skin laxity and muscle weakness are confined to the lower part of the abdomen, a modified abdominoplasty may be performed that limits tissue removal and muscle repair to the area below the navel. This usually leaves a shorter scar and no scarring around the navel.
In cases of good skin tone but bulging abdominal muscles and fat, Dr. Swift performs the operation through a 1" pubic incision with the aid of liposuction and endoscopic equipment (camera & monitor).
Regardless of the technique chosen, the goals are a firmer, flatter abdomen and a narrower waist. You will be advised to wear a light support garment for two to three months and cautioned to restrict strenuous activity for a few weeks to ensure proper and complete healing.