Abdominoplasty From Inside The Operating Room

Additional Details About The Tummy Tuck Procedure That Go Beyond The Benefits

Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, is an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure that can help to improve the appearance of the abdominal area. The procedure involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen, and tightening the abdominal muscles to create a more toned and contoured look. For those who are struggling with loose skin and stubborn belly fat, a tummy tuck can be a truly transformative procedure that can help to restore confidence and self-esteem.

Together, we will explore everything you need to know about the actual tummy tuck procedure, itself.

There Are Generally 2 Types of Tummy Tuck: Full Abdominoplasty & Mini-Abdominoplasty 

The full version includes the removal of extra skin and fat, as well as tightening of the upper and lower muscle layer and resetting the belly button. The mini-version is fat and skin removal of the low belly only, with limited or no treatment of the muscle or naval. The choice depends on your specific anatomy and goals. Liposuction is often combined with abdominoplasty to contour the upper abdomen and flanks.

Surgery Prep: Annotating Incision Lins & Optimizing Your Experience

Regardless of the surgical technique, Dr. Donaldson or Dr. Sieffert will mark your abdomen in the pre-operative area of the surgical center. They will show you where to expect your scar – generally low enough to be concealed by low-cut jeans and bikini bottoms. You will sign consent forms, and then receive an IV, as well as medications to reduce pain and nausea and to prevent blood clots and infection.

Numbing & Anesthesia: Making Sure You Are Comfortable During The Procedure 

Once you are asleep from general anesthesia, Dr. Donaldson recommends allowing the board-certified anesthesiologist to perform a “TAP” block, where numbing medicine is placed around the nerves that provide sensation to the abdominal wall and skin. This minimizes the amount of pain medicine that is necessary, which improves post-operative breathing, mobility and bowel function.

Incisions & Abdominal Repair: The Defining Moments Of Tummy Tuck Surgery 

Next, your surgeon places numbing medicine directly into the skin before making an incision. This reduces trauma to the nerves and the body’s stress response to surgery. After the incision is made, the muscle separation (diastasis) is identified and repaired if necessary, the extra skin and fat are removed, liposuction is performed, the belly button is reset, the small drain is placed and the incision is closed.

Three layers of strong, durable suture are used for secure closure. The sutures are all hidden beneath the skin and are dissolvable so they do not need to be removed.

Protection & Support: Taking Extra Measures To Ensure Your Safety & Improve Recovery

A thin layer of surgical-grade glue (Dermabond or Octylseal) is placed over the incision as a final protective measure. A supportive abdominal binder is wrapped around the trunk to secure the tissues, improve posture and reduce the risk of fluid collection.

Other Procedures May Be Considered At The Time Of Your Tummy Tuck

For a complete mommy makeover, breast augmentation and/or breast lift are often added. Liposuction of other areas such as the neck, arms, thighs or hips and labiaplasty are popular combinations as well. Treatments that are typically considered “non-surgical” can also be included, such as Avéli to treat cellulite and Renuvion Skin Tightening.

Review all of your aesthetic goals with Dr. Donaldson or Dr. Sieffert so they can help you decide what combination of procedures may be best. It is possible to have multiple procedures at once, and many women choose this option for the convenience of having a single operation and recovery. There is also generally a financial savings due to the efficiency of combined surgery.

About The Author

Jeffrey Donaldson, MD, is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Columbus, Ohio. Since he opened his practice in 2008, he has performed hundreds of successful Tummy Tuck surgeries with many being combined with additional procedures for a complete Mommy Makeover. Safety, education and patient comfort are all critical pillars of Dr. Donaldson’s mission to bring greater confidence to each of his patients. He continues to hone his craft and provide valuable knowledge to patients everywhere.