Abdominal Lipectomy

An abdominal lipectomy is a procedure that eliminates excess skin from the abdominal area, so you can have a flatter and fitter figure, a narrower waist line, and a firmer abdomen. This procedure can be done using general anesthesia or local anesthesia and a sedative. When general anesthesia is used, the patient will be in deep sleep. However, if local anesthesia is used, the patient will be awake but relaxed. It is possible that the patient may feel discomfort, but not pain, at certain points of the procedure at times. This subject should be addressed and clarified during your preliminary medical visits, as your plastic surgeon will help you make the best decision.
The ProcedureThe procedure begins with an incision on the lower part of the abdomen, just above the pubic area. Depending on how extensive the problem is, the stitches will go all the to the hips or it won't reach the ends of the hips. The next step is an incision around the belly button. Additionally, the plastic surgeon will separate the skin and stretch it down. This will help the surgeon determine the amount of flaccid tissue the surgeon should remove and evaluate the degree of muscle weaknesses. All the above will allow the surgeon to reinforce the abdominal area in order to get the desired outcome. Usually, this procedure lasts two hours.


Postoperative CareAfter the procedure, the patient may experience pain and swelling. A few hours after the procedure, the patient should walk to induce good blood circulation. When the patient is discharged, the specialist will give him or her postoperative instructions on how to take their medications, eat, bathe, and take care of the wound. After five days, the patient will be able to resume all daily activities, but must avoid lifting weight and sudden movements, as these activities can harm the internal and external stiches. Physically demanding activities should be avoided for three weeks. The stiches will be removed five to seven days later. The plastic surgeon will tell patients when they can remove the bandages and start wearing an abdominal belt.
Candidates for an Abdominal Lipectomy

• People who experience dramatic weight loss and wish to eliminate excess skin.
• Women who have flaccid skin and stretch marks after pregnancy.
• Elderly people who have lost skin elasticity.
• Patients who can't get the abs they want despite dieting and physical training.

RisksThe number of years that a surgeon has been performing a procedure like an abdominal lipectomy will help you determine if he or she performs these procedures well. It is important that patients follow all instructions given by the doctor not only before the procedure, but also during recovery. Some latent risks of this procedure are infections and venous thrombi. Both of these problems can be solved or avoided. Infections can be treated with antibiotics, and venous thrombi can be avoided by moving your legs and walking as soon as possible after the procedure.
ResultsAbdominal Lipectomy is a definitive intervention. The plastic surgeon's main goal is the patient's satisfaction, and the patient's goal is to maintain the results of the procedure by following a balanced diet and exercising once he or she is authorized by the doctor.