SURGICAL PROCEDURES

Tummy Tuck

Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck in most cases restores weakened or separated muscles creating an abdominal profile that is smoother and firmer!

What is Tummy Tuck?

The tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to remove excess skin from the abdomen and at the same time tighten the abdominal muscles. It is indicated for patients with lax abdominal skin that results in bulging due to abnormal stretching of the abdominal muscles and skin. This occurs frequently following pregnancy or significant weight loss.

Unlike liposuction surgery, which just removes fat, this operation involves removal of skin and fat, with tightening of the abdominal muscles. For this reason, it is more extensive than liposuction. The actual extent of surgery will depend on the amount of excess skin and the laxity of the abdominal muscles.

What is an Endoscopic Abdominoplasty?

For patients with bulging muscle and excess fat, whose skin is relatively tight, an endoscopic abdominoplasty may be an option. It is reserved for the patient who has good skin tone, but bulging underlying muscle. Only a small percentage of patients with abdominal complaints fit into this category.

How is Tummy Tuck surgery performed?

Prior to tummy tuck surgery the amount of skin that is to be removed is carefully marked. The operation is usually carried out under general anesthesia. An incision is made in the bikini line and the excess skin is pulled down and inward, and is removed along with underlying fatty tissue. The muscles are tightened as required, the skin is carefully re-draped and the incision closed with several layers of dissolvable suture.

In most cases, the belly button will have an incision around it in a circular fashion because of the amount of skin removed. It is not true that the belly button is removed during the operation. You keep your existing belly button, however it may look different because the surrounding skin is now tighter after the tummy tuck.

Recovering from Tummy Tuck surgery

Following tummy tuck surgery; a compressive girdle and stockings are worn for a few weeks. There may be considerable discomfort for several days following surgery but most patients resume limited activity in a day or so. Wound drains are kept in place for approximately one week to help prevent the accumulation of fluid.

Because of the risk of possible blood clots deep in the legs that can spread to the lungs or partial lung collapse, it is important for patients to begin movement promptly after surgery even if it is uncomfortable.

Because of the extent of the surgery, there are risks involved that can result in serious complications. Infection or collections of blood or fluid in the wound may delay recovery and could result in skin loss, fat necrosis or scarring. These could lead to the need for additional corrective surgery. The abdominal wall is stretched during surgery and the blood supply to the skin may be compromised or damaged. This may lead to loss of skin. If this happens a skin graft may be needed if the wound does not heal. Wound problems are much more likely with patients who smoke. Therefore, we require patients who use tobacco products to completely quit for a minimum of four-to-six weeks before and after tummy tuck surgery.

Minimizing scars following tummy tuck surgery

Patients must realize that there is a sizable scar, which, although hidden, may thicken or widen requiring later revision. It is also important to realize that it will take many months for the scar to fade to its final appearance. Unfortunately, because of the pull involved with the operation, it is not uncommon for scars to be somewhat widened or irregular. A small percentage of our patients will return after about one year for scar revision.

In spite of these considerations, the operation is generally very gratifying. Many patients realize relief of functional symptoms such as low back pain, rash and abdominal discomfort following the cosmetic surgery. When surgery is primarily sought for functional purposes, insurance may help cover the cost. If you feel that your condition fits these criteria, our staff will help you to obtain that information from your insurance company.

Dr. Angelo Cuzalina, an internationally recognized body contouring expert,
performs all contouring surgery in our Waimea surgical suite under general anesthesia and on an outpatient basis.

Abdominoplasty is available in Hawaii through Dr. John D. Stover's Cosmetic Centers of Hawaii. Dr. Stover is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon and a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon with offices in Kona, Hilo and Waimea on the Big Island of Hawaii. He is a fellow of both the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Dr. Stover continually updates his knowledge, skills and practice in the latest surgical and non-surgical procedures, which has made him one of Hawaii's top-performing cosmetic surgeons.