A flat and well-toned abdomen is something many of us strive for through exercise and weight control. Sometimes these methods cannot achieve our goals.

Even individuals of otherwise normal body weight and proportion can develop an abdomen that protrudes or is loose and sagging. The most common causes of this include:

		Pregnancy
		Aging
		Significant fluctuations in weight
		Heredity
		Prior surgery

Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin, and in most cases restores weakened or separated muscles, thus creating an abdominal profile that is smoother and firmer.

A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss or an appropriate exercise program.
Although the results of a tummy tuck are technically permanent, the positive outcome can be greatly diminished by significant fluctuations in your weight. For this reason, individuals who are planning substantial weight loss or women who may be considering future pregnancies may be advised to postpone a tummy tuck.

Also, a tummy tuck cannot correct stretch marks, although these may be removed or somewhat improved if they are located on the areas of excess skin that will be excised.

Tummy tuck surgery is a highly individualized procedure and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else’s desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image.

Abdominoplasty is a good option for you if:

		You are physically healthy and at a stable weight
		You have realistic expectations
		You are a non-smoker
		You are bothered by the feeling that your tummy is too large

The success and safety of your tummy tuck procedure depends very much on your complete candidness during your consultation. Dr. Vartany will ask you a number of questions about your health, desires and lifestyle.

Be prepared to discuss:

Preparing for surgery

Prior to surgery, you may be asked to:

Special instructions you receive will cover:

Important facts about the safety and risks of abdominoplasty

The decision to have tummy tuck surgery is extremely personal and you’ll have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable.

Possible risks of abdominoplasty include:

Procedural Steps:

General anesthesia will be administered by a Board certified anesthesiologist.

A full tummy tuck requires a horizontally-oriented incision in the area between the pubic hairline and navel. The shape and length of the incision will be determined by the degree of correction necessary.

Through this incision, Dr. Vartany will repair weakened abdominal muscles and remove excess fat tissue and skin.

Absorbable sutures close the skin incisions so suture removal will not be necessary after the procedure.

Step 4 – See the results

Your tummy tuck will result in a flatter, firmer abdominal contour that is more proportionate with your body type and weight.

The final results may be initially obscured by swelling and your inability to stand fully upright until internal healing is complete.

Within a week or two, you should be standing tall and confident about your new slimmer profile.

My recovery

Words to know