Abdominoplasty

A patient who has excess skin and subcutaneous tissue in the abdominal area may be a candidate for an abdominoplasty, otherwise known as a “tummy tuck”. At times, even with diet and exercise, you may be unable to tighten or tone the abdomen. This is especially true if you have had massive weight loss or have been pregnant. In the majority of these cases, the skin has stretched and lost elasticity, making it impossible to achieve the abdominal contour desired.

During your consultation, Dr. Aya-ay will evaluate the degree and location of skin laxity, determine localized areas of adiposity, and measure the degree of muscle separation, or rectus diastasis. You will discuss your perceived problem areas, and formulate the best surgical plan to achieve your desired results. Various techniques can be utilized to customize your surgical plan for your specific body type. Some of these surgical techniques include the mini-tummy tuck, sliding umbilicoplasty, full abdominoplasty, abdominoplasty with liposuction, vertical abdominoplasty, rectus plication (tightening of the abdominal muscles), or the circumferential abdominoplasty.

The Procedure

The majority of tummy tuck procedures can be performed at a surgery center or hospital as an outpatient procedure. In most situations, general anesthesia is used. In a standard abdominoplasty procedure, incisions are made in the lower abdomen and around the umbilicus. In a vertical abdominoplasty, a vertical incision is added. In a circumferential abdominoplasty, an incision along the lower back is utilized. The latter procedures are typically performed on patients with massive weight loss and significant skin laxity.

During the surgery, excess skin and fat is removed and the muscles of the abdominal wall are tightened in a corset like fashion. The skin is reshaped over the abdomen resulting in an improved abdominal contour.

The Recovery

There will be a period of time following the surgery during which there will restrictions on activity and work. The time period and restrictions vary based on the surgical procedures chosen. Pain medication, a muscle relaxant, and nausea medication as needed are prescribed for patient comfort. Antibiotics are given for a period of time.

Call today to schedule your comprehensive consultation with Dr. Aya-ay.

Contact Us

Melanie L. Aya-ay, M.D. Plastic Surgery, P.L.

16626 N. Dale Mabry Highway
Tampa, FL 33618
Ph: 813.774.5733
Fax: 813.774.5619

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