Endoscopic Abdominoplasty

Endoscopic Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) is sometimes used as an adjunct for selected patients who have lost abdominal muscle tone.

An endoscopic abdominoplasty, like other endoscopic procedures, is performed using a small camera, called an endoscope, which is attached to small surgical instruments. This gives endoscopic abdominoplasty a major advantage over the traditional procedure: the surgery can be performed using very small incisions that are easily concealed.

Photos courtesy of Dr Teitelbaum, California

The incisions used in an endoscopic abdominoplasty are usually placed above the pubis or inside of the navel. The muscles are tightened and sutured through the incision. Liposuction performed during the endoscopic abdominoplasty removes fat, a drain is placed to prevent fluid buildup, and the incision is closed.

Recovery from an endoscope abdominoplasty is also greatly aided by the minimally invasive nature of this procedure. Patients will still feel slight to moderate discomfort after an endoscopic abdominoplasty, and some swelling is to be expected. Most patients who undergo an endoscopic abdominoplasty are able to return to their normal daily activities within a week or two of surgery, although they will need to put off heavy exercise and strenuous activity until they are fully recovered.

Endoscopy is generally not used in patients who have a significant amount of loose abdominal skin.

See also  Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Please ask your doctor for further information.