he most frequent causes for the need for a tummy tuck include pregnancy and, as well, big weight fluctuations. Due to either of these two events, not only is there an accumulation of a fatty layer beneath the skin but also, a looseness of the abdominal muscles and the skin.

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Therefore, a tummy tuck must address all of the above problems. It consists of liposculpture of the abdominal fat, tightening of the abdominal muscles and reshaping and tightening of the abdominal skin. In cases where the patient’s skin tone is satisfactory but she simply has looseness of the underlying abdominal muscles, we can perform an endoscopic abdominoplasty whereby we carry out a small incision in the pubic area and use the endoscopic equipment to tighten the abdominal muscles without removing any of the abdominal skin. This allows us to flatten the abdomen and, of course, at the same time, minimize the scarring. This procedure is performed under general or spinal anesthesia and usually requires an overnight stay at our clinic. Bruising may last several weeks and the patient is instructed not to do any heavy lifting or strenuous activities for one month. Discomfort is categorized as mild to moderate. Mild swelling may persist for up to three months.