If you're considering abdominoplasty...

Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a "tummy tuck."

It is a major sugical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall.

The procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen.

Bear in mind, it does produce a permanent scar.

If you want to know more about this procedure

The procedure at the glance

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

Procedure : Flatten abdomen by removing excess fat and skin and tightening muscles of abdominal wall.

Length : 2 to 3 hours.

Anesthesia : General

In/Outpatient : Either depending on individual circumstances and extent of surgery.

Side Effects : Temporary pain. Swelling, soreness, numbness of abdominal skin, bruising, tiredness for several weeks or months.

Risks : Blood clots. Infection. Bleeding under the skin flap. Need for a second operation.

Recovery : Back to work: 2 to 4 weeks. More strenuous activity: 4 to 6 weeks or more. Fading and flattening of scars: 3 months to 2 years.