The tummy tuck, as abdominoplasty is colloquially referred, is a serious operation than removes excess fat and skin from the abdominal area and helps to tighten the abdominal wall, drastically changing the appearance of the pelvic area. Depending on the severity of the problem, scarring can be as wide as hip-to-hip. No matter the degree, a scar is guaranteed following this procedure.

Procedure information
Usually, around 4 or 5 hours is required to perform the full tummy tuck operation. The time can vary depending on the individual, but a minimum of 2 hours should be expected. The surgeon will typically make an incision between the hip bones and loosen the tissue around the belly button. The abdominal muscles are then pulled tight together and the skin is pulled firmly over before excess skin is cut away.

A new hole is cut for the umbilicus and stitches are used to seal the incision. A tube may be used to drain excess fluid for the first day or two after surgery.

Recovery time
There will be abdominal swelling and pain after the procedure, and painkilling medication is administered. The first few days after an abdomnoplasty operation is performed, movement will be minimal. Individual cases vary, but the patient can expect to be released the same day if the operation was minor, while more serious cases may be required to stay in hospital for 2 or 3 days.

It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to fully recover from the procedure. More serious cases should allot a long recovery time, as physical activity will be limited.