Men and women who have experienced dramatic weight loss, either through diet and exercise, or as a result of bariatric surgery, often have excess amounts of skin around the abdomen. Women can also experience this condition as a result of pregnancy, making the abdomen soft and flabby. An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, can remove excess folds of skin and tighten your abdominal muscles to create a lean, flat and more well-defined stomach. It can also diminish unsightly stretch marks. Because diet and exercise cannot remove excess skin, abdominoplasty is the perfect solution to tone and refine the abdomen. The effects of a tummy tuck can be long lasting, provided you exercise regularly, eat a sensible diet and maintain a suitable weight level.

During the procedure, an incision is made at the bikini line from hip to hip, after which Dr. Franco will remove any excess skin between the pubic area and the belly button. To tighten the contour of the abdomen, Dr. Franco takes the skin on the upper part of the abdomen and stretches it downward. The belly button remains in its normal position. Lastly, the incisions are carefully stitched closed and a dressing is applied. The type of anesthesia administered will be determined by Dr. Franco.

If your abdominal fullness and loose skin are confined to the area below the belly button, you may be a candidate for a mini abdominoplasty, which has a shorter incision and limits the tightening to the lower abdomen. If the fullness and skin laxity involve your entire abdomen, then a full abdominoplasty is most likely needed to help you achieve your desired results. A consultation with you and Dr. Franco will determine which method is right for you.

Finding a qualified, board certified surgeon for your tummy tuck is extremely important and highly recommended to ensure the overall safety and satisfaction of your surgery. Every surgical procedure carries potential risks and uncertainties. Dr. Franco is double board-certified in Plastic Surgery and General Surgery and has over 15 years of experience creating beautiful results for highly satisfied patients.