Surgical procedure that corrects muscle-fascia separation and loose skin in the abdominal area following significant weight loss, pregnancy, or previous surgeries.
Indication
- Abdominal wall muscle separation (rectus diastasis) and functional weakness following pregnancy or significant weight changes
- Pronounced loose skin and skin-fold irritation/maceration after bariatric (obesity) surgery
- Repair of recurrent umbilical hernia or abdominal wall hernias along with correction of excess skin
- Excess skin causing persistent fungal infection/dermatitis and hygiene difficulties in abdominal skin folds
- Functionally bothersome contour deformities and contractures from previous surgical scars
Preparation
- No food or fluid for 8 hours before the procedure
- Blood thinners, aspirin, and herbal supplements are adjusted with physician approval
- Stable weight (at least 6 months of stable weight) is important for healing
- Smoking increases the risk of wound dehiscence and tissue loss; cessation at least 4 weeks before is required
- Blood tests, chest X-ray, ECG, and anesthesia consultation are performed
- Known risk factors for clot formation (thromboembolism), such as oral contraceptives, are reviewed
How it's performed
- Performed under general anesthesia
- A long horizontal incision is made along the bikini line; an additional incision around the navel may be added if needed
- Skin and subcutaneous tissue are lifted, and the separated abdominal muscles (rectus) are reapproximated with internal sutures
- Hernias, if present, are repaired
- Excess skin and subcutaneous tissue are removed; the navel is repositioned
- Drains are placed inside the wound, and the skin is closed in layers
Post-procedure
- Hospital stay typically 1-3 days
- A compression garment is worn during the day for 4-6 weeks
- Early mobilization and, when needed, anticoagulant therapy to reduce clot risk
- Drains are removed within 3-7 days; wound care is monitored regularly
- Heavy lifting and abdominal exercises are avoided for 6-8 weeks; follow-up visits per physician's plan
Risks
- Delayed wound healing, wound dehiscence, or impaired circulation at the skin edge
- Seroma (fluid collection under the skin), hematoma, and infection
- Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism (significant but rare serious risk)
- Scar widening, hypertrophic or keloid scar formation
- Temporary or permanent sensory changes; possible need for revision surgery
FAQ
Does abdominoplasty cause weight loss?
No. This procedure is not intended for weight loss; it aims to correct abdominal wall laxity and excess skin. It provides functional improvement in patients who have reached a stable weight.
When can I return to work?
Office-based work can usually be resumed after 2-3 weeks, while jobs requiring physical activity require 6-8 weeks before returning with physician approval. Healing rates vary between individuals.
Will the scar be visible?
Yes, the incision scar runs along the bikini line and can usually be concealed by underwear. The color and texture of the scar mature over 12-18 months but do not disappear completely.
Will subsequent pregnancy affect the result?
Subsequent pregnancies may disrupt the abdominal wall again. For those planning pregnancy, the procedure is generally recommended after the family is complete.
Related Information
Related Medical Services
Other services in the same specialty or with similar indications you may want to explore.
Liposuction
Surgical Outpatient Services
Liposuction — surgical removal of localized fat deposits with the help of a cannula.
Appendectomy
Surgical Outpatient Services
Appendectomy (appendicitis surgery) — surgical removal of the inflamed appendix.
Cholecystectomy
Surgical Outpatient Services
Cholecystectomy — laparoscopic or open surgical removal of the gallbladder.
Splenectomy
Surgical Outpatient Services
Splenectomy (spleen surgery) — removal of the spleen for hematologic and traumatic conditions.
Inguinal Hernia Repair
Surgical Outpatient Services
Inguinal hernia repair — surgical repair of a groin hernia using mesh or tissue technique.
Umbilical Hernia Repair
Surgical Outpatient Services
Umbilical hernia repair — surgical correction of a hernia at the navel.
Incisional Hernia Repair
Surgical Outpatient Services
Incisional hernia repair — repair of an abdominal wall hernia developing at the site of a previous surgical incision.
Laparoscopic Surgery
Surgical Outpatient Services
Laparoscopic surgery — minimally invasive general surgery procedures performed through small incisions using a closed approach.