Tummy Tuck (abdominoplasty)

Procedure

Flatten abdomen by removing excess fat and skin, then tightening muscles of the abdominal wall.

Length

2 to 5 hours

Anesthesia

General or local with sedation

In/Outpatient

Either depending on the individual circumstances and extent of surgery.

Side Effects

Temporary pain, swelling, soreness, numbness of abdominal skin, bruising, tiredness for several weeks or months.

Risks

Blood clots, infection, bleeding under the skin flap, poor healing resulting in conspicuous scarring or skin loss, need for a second operation.

Recovery

Back to work: 2 to 4 weeks
More strenuous activity: 4 to 6 weeks or more
Fading and flatten of scars: 3 months to 2 years.