Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Abdominoplasty, also known as a "tummy tuck," is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen. The muscles of the abdominal wall are also tightened to give the stomach a tighter, flatter, and thinner overall look.
Candidates for tummy tuck surgery include men and women who are in relatively good shape, but have a stubborn, large fat deposit in the abdominal wall that requires tightening. Tummy Tuck surgery is also recommended for women who have loose abdominal skin from the effects of pregnancy. Tummy Tuck surgery for post-maternity women, often part of a mommy makeover, is not recommended for women who wish to become pregnant again.
To perform an abdominoplasty, an incision is made from hipbone to hipbone, just above the pubic area (so it is easily hidden from view in underwear or a bathing suit). The surgeon then separates the skin from the abdominal wall up to the ribs and the muscles of the abdomen are tightened. The lifted skin is then stretched down and the extra skin is removed to create a flatter, tighter abdominal look. Because the skin and naval are pulled downward into a new position, a new opening is also cut for the navel during the tummy tuck procedure.
In some cases, a full tummy tuck is not needed for a patient that has a smaller amount of fat in the abdominal area. For these patients, the surgeons at Atlanta Plastic Surgery will recommend a mini abdominoplasty, or a mini tummy tuck. A much smaller bikini incision is used in this procedure and the muscles are tightened without moving the naval. For a mini tummy tuck, liposuction of the abdomen and small skin removal complete the procedure.
The following doctors perform Abdominoplasty at Atlanta Plastic Surgery. Click on a doctor to learn more about their practice and to view Before & After plastic surgery photographs.
| Philip H. Beegle Jr., M.D. |
| L Franklyn Elliott, M.D. |
| James D. Namnoum, M.D. |
| Wilbur L. Baird, M.D. |
| Joseph Kerwin Williams, M.D. |
| Allyson B. Maske, M.D. |