An abdominoplasty is often confused with a panniculectomy because of the similarities between the two. However, the two procedures are quite different because of their intended outcome. Panniculectomy is to remove the pannus, which is excess skin and fat that hangs below the belt line. A panniculectomy is done to address a functional concern, of persistent rashes or wounds, or impaired mobility. An abdominoplasty also removes the pannus, but includes redraping skin above the beltline, repositioning the belly button, and tightening abdominal muscles. These are not components included in a panniculectomy.
The decision to have plastic surgery is extremely personal, and you’ll have to decide if the benefits of the surgery outweigh the risks and potential complications of surgery.
You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure and any risks. It is important that you address all your questions directly with your surgeon.
An abdominoplasty is performed under general anesthetic. During the procedure, an incision is made along the lower abdomen just above the pubic line from hip to hip. The muscles of the abdomen are then pulled tightly together and repositioned to the midline. Two Jackson-Pratt drains will be placed along the opposing sides of your surgical incision. Dissolvable stitches will be used along the surgical incision, with exception to the two black stitches used to tether your drains. Surgical dressings will be applied, and an abdominal binder will be used on top.
It is important to know that while technically the result of a ‘tummy tuck’ is permanent, any significant fluctuations in weight can greatly affect the results. It is recommended that individuals who are planning to lose weight or women considering pregnancy postpone the procedure.
A ‘tummy tuck’ procedure will also not be able to correct stretch marks. Some stretch marks may be excised if they are along the surgical scar, but not all. It is possible that tattoos may have to be removed during excision of abdominal skin as well. A good candidate for abdominoplasty surgery is a patient who is relatively healthy, has reached their weight loss goals and has realistic expectations for post-operative outcomes. This procedure is not a replacement for a weight loss or exercise regime.
Liposuction may be a surgical alternative to abdominoplasty if there is good skin tone and localized abdominal fat deposits in an individual of normal weight. Diet and exercise programs may also be beneficial for reducing excess body fat and improving body contour.
It is also strongly advised that you are a non-smoker at the time of surgery. If you are a smoker we recommend you quit smoking at least 3 months prior to surgery as nicotine can interfere with blood supply and potentially cause complications with healing after surgery.
