Tummy tuck cosmetic surgeries can vary and are often divided into types. Depending on the amount of skin or fat being removed, a complete abdominoplasty can take 1 to 5 hours. A partial abdominoplasty usually takes between 1 to 2 hours.

Complete Abdominoplasty

A cosmetic surgeon will make an incision from hip to hip just above the pubic area. A second incision is done to assist in freeing the navel from the surrounding skin. Skin is separated from the abdominal wall to expose the muscles and fascia that need to be tightened. Stitches are used to tighten the muscle fascia wall. The excess skin and fat are removed, completing the tighten process. The belly button is positioned and stitched into place. In most cases, liposuction is often performed to improve the transition zones of the abdominal sculpture.

Partial Abdominoplasty

A small slit is made and the skin and fat of the lower abdomen are separated in a more limited manner from the muscle fascia. The skin is extended down and excess skin discarded. In some cases, a section of the abdominal muscle fascia wall may be tightened. Liposuction is performed to shape the transition zone.

Extended Abdominoplasty

An extended abdominoplasty consists of a total abdominoplasty with additions to the thighs and/or flanks.

A tummy tuck procedure is part of a lower body lift and liposuction can be added to any of the abdominoplasty procedure to assist with contouring or body sculpting.