Abdominoplasty: Understanding The Plastic Surgery Procedure

An abdominoplasty (a.k.a. tummy tuck) is a plastic surgery procedure to permanently enhance the appearance of the stomach area for a smoother, tighter midsection.

Abdominoplasty Overview - 840

The Skinny


Average Recovery

4 weeks

Permanence

Permanent

Application

Surgical Procedure

Surgical

Yes

Cost

$3000 - $15000

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Before & After Images by Provider

Abdominoplasty Before, Female 49 - 3804Abdominoplasty After, Female 49 - 3804
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Abdominoplasty Before, Female 32 - 2861Abdominoplasty After, Female 32 - 2861
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Abdominoplasty Before, Female 50 - 2859Abdominoplasty After, Female 50 - 2859
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Abdominoplasty Before, Female 50 - 2858Abdominoplasty After, Female 50 - 2858
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The Specifics


What is an abdominoplasty (a.k.a. tummy tuck)?

An Abdominoplasty (a.k.a. tummy tuck) is a plastic surgery procedure to contour and define the abdomen. In an abdominoplasty, excess skin and excess fat is removed, and skin is repositioned into a tighter, smoother position. Loose abdominal skin and collections of stubborn fat deposits may occur due to aging, pregnancy, or weight loss.

The Anatomy of the Abdominal Wall

Abdominal Wall Anatomy Illustration

Typically, an abdominoplasty is combined with other cosmetic procedures such as a liposuction, umbilicoplasty, abdominal muscle tightening, pubic lift, thigh lift, or breast augmentation.

What cosmetic concerns does an abdominoplasty procedure treat?

  1. Abdominal Contour: Removal of loose skin, excess skin, and excess fat with repositioning of the skin allows for the creation of a tighter, more contoured abdomen.
  2. Mommy Makeover: Skin laxity from pregnancy can be corrected via an abdominoplasty.

Who is the ideal candidate for an abdominoplasty procedure?

The ideal candidate for an abdominoplasty is in generally good health, at a stable weight, and following a diet and exercise regimen. Abdominoplasty is not recommended for those who are significantly overweight or those whose weight is unstable.

What is the average recovery associated with an abdominoplasty procedure?

Complete recovery from an abdominoplasty may take up to six months, however, patients typically begin to resume activities after two to three weeks. Most candidates return to work after two weeks. There are restrictions on exercise for up to four weeks. A compression garment is advised for the first three to four weeks.

To better understand the healing and downtime associated with the procedure, check out our complete guide to tummy tuck recovery.

What are the potential side effects of an abdominoplasty procedure?

Possible side effects following an abdominoplasty include bruising, blood clots, pain, swelling, infection, asymmetry, and scarring.

What can someone expect from the results of an abdominoplasty procedure?

The results of an abdominoplasty are immediately visible, permanent enhancements to the abdominal area. The results will finalize over six months, and will be affected by significant weight changes or pregnancy.

What is the average cost of an abdominoplasty procedure?

An abdominoplasty can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000. The actual cost of abdominoplasty is dependent upon location, board certified plastic surgeon, and length and involvement of the plastic surgery. Learn more in our [complete guide to the cost of a tummy tuck](https://aedit.com/procedure/tummy-tuck-abdominoplasty/cost).

thumbs-upPros

  • Flat Tummy
  • Youthful Body

thumbs-downCons

  • Scars
  • Asymmetry

Invasiveness Score

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5
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10

Invasiveness is graded based on factors such as anesthesia practices, incisions, and recovery notes common to this procedure.

What to Expect


Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the stomach area for a smoother, tighter mid-section. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after an abdominoplasty procedure.

The Takeaway


An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a cosmetic surgery that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen for improved body contours and a smoother, tighter stomach.

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Source List

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AEDIT uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

  1. Jermaine E Gray, MD, Jason S Mizell, MD, FACS Abdominal Wall Anatomy UpToDate; 2019-06-21
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