What is a Full Abdominoplasty?

The term “Abdominoplasty” refers to plastic surgery of the abdomen. A full abdominoplasty is the most comprehensive abdominoplasty. With this surgery, the following occurs:

Removal of significant amount of loose, redundant, overhanging skin

Tightening of abdominal muscles (repair “diastasis”) that loosen and separate from prior abdominal surgery, weight loss and pregnancies

Elevation, reduction and defatting of the pubic region

Addressing the belly button which may be stretched or deformed by hernias or scars

Often Liposuction of the waist to enhance shape

Secondary improvement of the upper and outer thigh which pull up in continuity with the abdomen

Abdominoplasty surgery typically takes 2-3 hours and is performed under general anesthesia, going home after a short recovery the same day. Intraoperatively, pain management is proactively addressed with injection of numbing agents to reduce discomfort after surgery for 3 or 4 days. Initial recovery after a Full Abdominoplasty may take about 2 weeks, allowing for 1 month to get back to a full non-strenuous schedule.

A full abdominoplasty is one of the most impactful, satisfying procedures plastic surgeons perform!