ABDOMINOPLASTY

Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a cosmetic plastic surgery that removes excess skin and fat from the area below the belly-button and tightens the abdominal muscles. There is also an option of extended abdominoplasty which involves the thighs and flanks. The procedure is performed under either general or local anasthesia and lasts for up to five hours.

The treatment starts with two incisions: the first is a long one across the abdomen and the second is by the navel to free it from the surrounding tissue. The surgeon then exposes the underlying muscles by separating the skin from the abdominal wall. The muscles get repositioned and tightened; the excess skin is removed. The remaining skin is stretched over the abdomen, and a new hole for the belly button is made.

The recovery time after abdominoplasty may take up to three weeks, with scars fading after six to nine months. If you'd like to continue your workout routine, consult your doctor about the proper excercises.

Talk to a board-certified plastic surgeon for the procedure details in your particular case. The cost of the surgery varies a lot depending on the state of the patient's health, the size of treated area and facilities. On average, total fees for abdominoplasty in the United States range from USD$4,000 to USD$20000.