Many factors such as pregnancy, localized fat deposits, hormones and previous surgeries contribute to protuberance or pooching out of the belly. In the past, many of these problems were treated with just one operation, the full abdominoplasty. In this operation the belly button was reset after the entire abdominal skin was undermined or freed up so it could be brought down to an incision hidden in the swimsuit line to rid the patient of excess skin and fat.

Today’s modern approach to belly deformities is much different. Each individual patient is studied to see which of a series of tummy tuck procedures might be right for them. In fact, in many cases, the only thing that is required is abdominal liposuction to rid the patient of excess fat with no need to remove any skin.

If greater amounts of skin require removal, or more muscle tightening is required, a modified tummy tuck or extended mini tummy tuck may be recommended. This does not require the belly button to be reset, and the incision is only slightly longer, still easily hidden in the bikini line.

In some individuals, the only deformity is letting go of the abdominal muscles. This is quite common in thin individuals who have been pregnant. In these individuals, two very small incisions are used at the level of the pubic hair and around the belly button which are almost invisible. Through these two small incisions, an endoscope, or lighted tube attached to a camera is used to allow the surgeon to retighten the loose muscles. Recovery time is much shorter.

Finally, only the patients with severe excess of skin and looseness of muscles need undergo the more extensive formal abdominoplasty. However, if indicated, this operation can give dramatic improvement of form, with flattening of the belly, removal of old scars and stretch marks in appropriate candidates.

Recovery from the above operations allow the patient to return to normal daily activities in one day to one week, with full recovery in three to six weeks. Strenuous physical exercise is avoided for two to six weeks. Possible complications of these procedures should be discussed with your surgeon according to the procedure you need. Smokers must stop smoking for two weeks before and after the surgical procedure, no exceptions.