A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess subcutaneous fat and skin. Typically, a horizontal incision is made just above the pubic area, which falls below the bikini line. The length of the incision depends on the amount of skin that needs to be removed and the natural crease of the patient. The surgeon first makes a horizontal cut above the pubic area. Then, the skin is loosened and, if necessary, the diastasis is corrected, keeping the belly button attached to the underlying muscle layer. This tightens the abdominal wall. Excess skin and fat are then removed, and the belly button is reattached.
There are different types of tummy tucks, including mini tummy tuck, full tummy tuck, 360-degree tummy tuck, and lower body lift. The type of surgery depends on the specific situation of the patient. With a mini tummy tuck, only the lower part of the abdominal wall is corrected, while a full tummy tuck corrects the entire abdominal wall. The 360-degree tummy tuck and lower body lift are more extensive procedures that involve not only the abdominal wall but also other parts of the body. The choice of a specific tummy tuck is determined in consultation with the plastic surgeon.
