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The abdominoplasty procedure is an operation which is performed to eliminate excess fatty tissue and skin folds in the mid to lower abdominal region. Often, women who have experienced multiple pregnancies have an excess amount of skin in this region as a result of abdominal swelling during pregnancy. During this procedure, the surgeon raises abdominal skin and tissue, stretching it downward and removing the excess with a closure within what is referred to as a “bikini line.” Repair of muscular structures is done at the same time. Often, the procedure involves repositioning the navel to a higher level. To enhance the result, liposuction of the hips and abdomen is often performed.

The procedure begins with the plastic surgeon making an incision that goes from hip to hip along the lower pubic area, made in an area that will allow the resulting scar from the procedure to be hidden under a bathing suit or underwear. The surgeon will then lift the loose skin from the abdominal wall, at which point the loosened “rectus” muscles that normally give the abdomen its strength are tightened and repaired. This provides essentially the same effect of an old-fashioned girdle.

The belly button, or “umbilicus,” will be disconnected from the abdomen. The loose skin will be removed, the abdominal wall will be tightened, the thighs and buttocks will be tightened, and the belly button will be reattached. Drains will be used on each side of the abdominal incision in order to remove excess fluid and prevent buildup after the procedure.

In the abdominoplasty, postoperative scarring is significant and may take from six months to a year for resolution; it will never disappear completely. Most often abdominoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. Routine activity can be resumed within ten days, but sports and exercising are prohibited for six weeks to allow the muscle to heal properly.