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Events such as pregnancy or weight loss can have a significant impact on the appearance of a person's abdomen. An abdominoplasty (also known as a tummy tuck) is designed to firm and smooth the abdomen. This cosmetic procedure removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, tightens the underlying abdominal muscles and may allow for the removal of stretch marks, especially if they are located in the lower part of the abdomen below the belly button.

 If required, liposuction of the waist may be performed at the same time to further contour the waistline. The result is a flatter, firmer abdomen.

The best candidates for surgery are those women and men in good health and with reasonable expectations. An abdominoplasty can address one or more of the following conditions:

• excess or sagging abdominal skin

• an abdomen that protrudes and is out of proportion with the rest of the body

• abdominal muscles that have been weakened by pregnancy or aging

• excess fat that is concentrated in the lower abdomen

Depending upon the amount of excess skin and fat, and it's location on the abdomen, there are several approaches to the surgery. The standard abdominoplasty incision is placed just within or above the pubic area and extends laterally towards the hip bones. The length of the scar will depend upon the amount of excess skin to remove, and in situations where there is minimal skin excess and a protuberant lower abdomen, the incision can be kept within the pubic area only. Regardless, every effort is taken to try to keep the resulting scar within your bathing suit lines. In patients with larger amounts of loose skin, a second incision may be made around the navel. This will allow the excess skin from above the naval to be pulled downward. Although the navel's position remains unchanged, its appearance may be slightly altered. The decision of which technique is best for you depends upon your expectations and physical examination. Dr. Archer will discuss these issues with you in detail at the time of your consultation.

Abdominoplasty surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and often on an out-patient basis.  Most patients are back to normal daily activities within two weeks, but are asked to avoid heavy physical activity and heavy lifting for 6 weeks.

Although most patients undergo abdominoplasty with very few complications, it is important for you to be well informed of the risks and potential benefits. These issues will be discussed with you at your initial consultation. Patients can maximize their chances of a successful result by following their pre- and post-operative instructions, eating well and avoiding smoking.