Abdomen area enhancement by means of plastic surgery. (A ‘tummy tuck’ or abdominoplasty)

A Large, protruding belly is not just an aesthetic problem. The excess sagging tissues, and fat folds may result in health issues such as intertrigo and recurring infections of the skin. It may also cause excessive tension on the back causing lower back pain. Besides that it may cause feet congested areas and varicose veins

Abdominoplasty is one of the most popular procedures in plastic surgery, as it helps to achieve (yields) effective and impressive results that satisfy both surgeons and patients. Weight loss, pregnancy and aging are common causes of the aesthetic defects in the face of abdominal protrusion and excess skin along the midsection. Pregnancy, in particular, stretches the skin and muscles of the abdomen in a way that can only be surgically corrected. The surgery is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved.

Cosmetic goal of belly shape correction surgical procedure (abdominoplasty) is to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdominal wall and to tighten the abdominal muscles. It helps to reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen.

The number and the variety of the front abdominal wall deformities require a wide spectrum of operative techniques and approaches. The correct choice of procedure in every individual case can provide optimal results with minimal side effects and postoperative complications. Abdominoplasty type may vary depending upon the excess skin volume and the incision size.

Properly performed surgery technique makes the postoperative scar unnoticeable no matter the incision extension. It is located in the ‘bikini line’ area and becomes barely noticeable (evident) as a thin white line in the course of time.
Abdomen plastic surgery types (abdominoplasty).

1. Mini-tuck abdominoplasty
2. Moderate abdominoplasty.
3. Full tummy-tuck (including belly button plasty (fig. 2) or without it)
4. Abdominoplasty including liposuction or without it
5. Abdominoplasty with belt-line contouring or without it. (combined and without)
   
   

The areas for liposuction (discontinuous dissection) are marked as well, as are the regions for continuous dissection

The incision is made around the umbilicus and the stalk delivered into the operative site. The dissection is continued in the mid line up to the xiphoid region identifying the medial border of the rectus sheath and the divarication. The demarcated segment of tissue is excised with more excision being done in the deeper layers than in the skin. Then the umbilical stalk relocation is performed through a new incision in the abdominal wall. Finally the incision site closure is done in layers to keep the wound clean, dry, and secure.

Two suction drains for active aspiration are placed just above the pubic zone.
Since suction drain is in place, only a mild compression dressing for comfort is necessary.
Although the major goal of this surgical procedure is quite clear and simple, that is to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdominal wall and to tighten the abdominal muscle, it is important that the procedure is performed by qualified plastic surgeon who is trained and experienced in body soft tissues contouring and knows the laws of aesthetic harmony and symmetry.
Abdominaplasty is performed in the same way for both men and women. The surgery takes from 1.5 to 2.5 hours. Some postoperative pain and discomfort can be controlled by medication during the first 1-2 weeks of the recovery period. Compression garments are kept for 6 weeks for the resolution of swelling and for support. Any overstraining physical activity should be limited for at least for 2 months and in relation (with regards) to the abdominal muscles for up to 3 months.