Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is a procedure that surgically slims and reshapes the abdomen. Areas treated may include the center of the abdomen or may extend to the entire area between the lower rib cage and pubic bone, as well as to the sides and back.

An abdominoplasty can correct:

• A loose or sagging abdomen
• Post-pregnancy abdominal abnormalities, including stretch marks
• Abdominal protrusions caused by weight fluctuations
• Diastasis—weakened or separated abdominal muscles

Certain physical attributes indicate that you are ready—and have reasonable expectations of abdominoplasty:

You are a good candidate if you:

• Are an adult of any age close to your ideal weight for your body type and size
• Are moderately fit and have good muscle tone
• Are healthy and do not have a life-threatening illness or medical condition that would impair healing
• Don’t smoke
• Have a positive outlook and specific goals in mind

First you will:

• Discuss your specific goals with Dr. Swier
• Have your physical and emotional health evaluated
• Learn the likely outcomes and potential risks of the procedure
• Get a course of treatment recommended by Dr. Swier
• Ask questions and get answers to help you understand the process

Be sure to:

• Openly share your expectations
• Disclose your complete health history, current medications, and use of vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs
• Commit to precisely follow all of Dr. Swier’s instructions

A full tummy tuck

A horizontal incision is made in the area between the pubic hairline and navel. The shape and length of the incision will be determined by the degree of correction necessary. Through the incision weakened abdominal muscles are repaired and excess fat, tissue and skin are removed. Four secondary incisions around the navel are necessary to allow the removal of excess skin from the upper abdomen.

A limited or mini tummy tuck

When the abdominal correction is isolated to below the navel, a shorter incision is made at the pubic bone. Liposuction may be performed with a mini tummy tuck where excess fat is the only factor.

You will:

• Be given diagnostic testing
• Be given medication prescriptions to help with postoperative discomfort and nausea
• Be given day-of-surgery instructions and medications
• Be given specific information related to the use of anesthesia
• Be given postoperative care and follow-up instructions
• Be given consent papers and a request to sign them prior to surgery
• Learn the risks of surgery and discuss them with Dr. Swier

Your procedure may be performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgery center.

• If you are admitted to a hospital, your stay will be short, typically one night
• You may undergo local or general anesthesia, depending on Dr. Swier’s recommendation
• You will emerge from surgery wearing a compression garment or elastic bandages
• One small, or occasionally two small, thin tubes may be temporarily placed under your skin to drain any excess blood that may collect
• You’ll be taken to recovery where you will be closely monitored

Before you are released you and an accompanying caregiver will learn:

• How to care for the surgical site and drains
• What medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce discomfort and the potential for infection
• Specific things to look for during healing
• When to follow up with Dr. Swier

Common conditions during initial healing include:

• Swelling
• Numbness below the umbilicus and around the incisions
• Soreness
• Bruising
• Discomfort controlled by medication

You must:

• Avoid bending, straining or lifting for several days
• Not stand fully upright to avoid stressing any internal sutures as they heal for four to five days
• Sleep with pillows elevating your knees
• Practice diligent sun protection until the healing process is complete
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise until you are fully healed

You will:

• Return to light, normal activity when you feel ready, usually seven to ten days
• Have sutures removed within seven to ten days
• Experience a dissipation of swelling over a period of several weeks
• Be encouraged to keep your weight in control