Abdominal wall surgery

 

Alternative Names

Cosmetic surgery of the abdomen; Tummy tuck; Abdominoplasty

Definition

Abdominal wall surgery is surgery that improves the appearance of flabby, stretched-out abdominal (belly) muscles and skin. It is often called a "tummy tuck." It can range from a simple "mini-tummy tuck" to more complicated, extensive surgery.

Abdominal wall surgery is not the same as liposuction, which is another way to remove fat. But abdominal wall surgery is sometimes combined with liposuction.

Why the Procedure Is Performed

Most of the time, the surgery is called elective or cosmetic surgery because it is an operation you choose to have. It is not usually needed for health reasons. Cosmetic abdomen repair can help improve appearance, especially after a lot of weight gain or loss. It helps flatten the lower abdomen and tighten stretched skin.

It may also help relieve skin rashes or infections that happen under large flaps of skin.

Abdominoplasty can be helpful when:

  • Diet and exercise have not helped improve muscle tone, such as in women who have had more than one pregnancy.
  • Skin and muscle cannot regain its normal tone. This can be a problem for very overweight people who lost a lot of weight.

Tummy tuck is major surgery. It is important to read about the procedure before having it.

Abdominoplasty is not used as an alternative to weight loss.

Risks

The risks for any anesthesia are:

The risks for any surgery are:

Risks of abdominoplasty are:

  • Damage to internal organs
  • Excessive scarring
  • Having a very low body temperature during surgery
  • Loss of skin
  • Nerve damage that can cause pain or numbness in part of your belly
  • Poor healing

Before the Procedure

Always tell your doctor or nurse:

  • If you could be pregnant
  • What drugs you are taking, even drugs, supplements, or herbs you bought without a prescription

Before your surgery:

  • Several days before surgery, you may be asked to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), warfarin (Coumadin), and any other drugs that affect blood clotting.
  • Ask your doctor which drugs you should still take on the day of your surgery.
  • If you smoke, try to stop. Ask your doctor or nurse for help. You must stop smoking for at least 2 weeks before surgery. Smoking significantly increases the risk for complications.

On the day of your surgery:

  • You will usually be asked not to drink or eat anything after midnight the night before your surgery.
  • Take the drugs your doctor told you to take with a small sip of water.
  • Your doctor or nurse will tell you when to arrive at the hospital.

After the Procedure

You will have some pain and discomfort for several days after surgery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medicine to help you manage your pain. It may help to rest with your legs and hips bent during recovery to reduce pressure on your abdomen.

Wearing an elastic support similar to a girdle for 2 to 3 weeks will provide extra support while you heal. You should avoid strenuous activity and anything that makes you strain for 4 to 6 weeks. You will probably be able to return to work in 2 to 4 weeks.

You will need to schedule a visit with your doctor to have your stitches removed.

Your scars will become flatter and lighter in color over the next 3 to 6 months. Do not expose the area to sun, because it can worsen the scar and darken the color. Keep it covered when you are out in the sun. You may have to apply a special cream until the cut is completely healed.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Most people are happy with the results of abdominoplasty. Many feel a new sense of self-confidence.

References

McGrath MH, Pomerantz J. Plastic surgery. In: Townsend CM, Beauchamp RD, Evers BM, Mattox KL, eds. Sabiston Textbook of Surgery. 19th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2012:chap 69.

Review Date: 1/29/2013
Reviewed By: John A. Daller, MD, PhD, Department of Surgery, Crozer-Chester Medical Center, Chester, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc., Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Stephanie Slon, and Nissi Wang.

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