Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

BEFORE AFTER Click on an image to see a larger view

Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a "tummy tuck," is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. Dr. Messa has found this procedure can dramatically improve the appearance of a protruding abdomen.

The best candidates for a tummy tuck?

The best candidates for a tummy tuck are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that won't respond to diet or exercise. The surgery is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved.

If you feel that you desire to have a flatter abdomen and desire to look more attractive in your slacks and form-fitting clothes then a Tummy Tuck may be the procedure for you.

Dr. Messa will meet with you in a personalized private consultation to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Please contact our Weston office to set up an appointment to meet with Dr. Messa.

The Surgery

Complete tummy tuck surgery usually takes two to three hours, depending on the extent of work required. Partial tummy tucks, or miniabdominoplasty, may take an hour or two.

Most commonly, Dr. Messa will make an incision low along the lower abdominal crease just above the pubic area.  With a mini tummy tuck, the incision is shorter and the navel is not moved, however, excess skin above the navel is not tightened.

The skin flap is then stretched down and the extra skin is removed. A new hole is cut for navel, which is then stitched in place. Finally, the incision will be carefully closed in multiple layers to minimize scar formation, dressing will be applied, and a temporary tube or drain will be inserted to remove excess fluid from the surgical site.

 
Dr. Messa specializes in full body cosmetic surgery and his office is located in Weston, Florida. Patients from the following areas and cities of Cooper City and Pembroke Pines, Florida and surrounding areas such as Fort Lauderdale can conveniently schedule appointments in our Weston, Florida office.