Abdominal wall surgery

• Illustrations
• Alternative names
• Definition
• Description

• Indications
• Risks
• Expectations after surgery
• Convalescence

Alternative names    Return to top

Definition    Return to top

Abdominal wall surgery is voluntary surgery that improves the appearance of flabby, stretched-out abdominal muscles and skin. Excessive fatty tissue and loose skin are removed from the middle and lower sections of the abdomen. The abdominal muscles may be tightened. Note that this is a different procedure than liposuction.

Description    Return to top

Cosmetic repair of the abdomen can help improve appearance, especially after massive weight gain and loss. Abdominoplasty can help flatten the lower abdomen and tighten stretched skin.

The patient is admitted to the hospital and the surgery is performed in the operating room. General anesthesia is used to keep the patient deep asleep and pain-free. An incision is made across the abdomen, just above the pubic area.

Excess skin and fat are removed from the abdominal wall from the pubic area to the rib cage and around the navel. The abdominal muscles are tightened. The incision is stitched closed. Excess skin and fat can also be removed from the arms and legs.

Small flat tubes (drains) may be inserted to allow fluid to drain out of the incisions. A firm elastic dressing is applied to the abdomen.

Indications    Return to top

Abdominoplasty can be helpful when:

• Diet and exercise have not corrected severe muscle weakness, for instance, after multiple pregnancies
• Skin and muscle cannot regain its normal tone, which can occur with obesity

Abdominoplasty is not used as a substitute for weight reduction.

Risks    Return to top

The risks of bleeding and infection are present for all surgeries. Additional risks of blood clots and infection also exist.

Expectations after surgery    Return to top

The patient can expect to feel some pain and discomfort for several days after surgery, which can be managed with pain medications. Resting with the legs and hips bent may reduce pressure on the abdomen during the recommended 1 - 3 day hospital stay.

Convalescence    Return to top

An elastic support similar to a girdle, worn for 2 - 3 weeks, provides extra abdominal support while healing. Strenuous activity and straining should be avoided for 4 weeks.

The scars will become lighter in color and flatter during the next 3 - 6 months.