What it is:
Removal of excess skin from the abdomen below the belly button
Who is a candidate?
- People with loose or excess abdominal skin which hangs down to the pubic bone
- People who get rashes beneath the overhanging skin on their abdomen
Average length of procedure?
* 1.5 hours
Type of anesthesia?
General
Will you need to stay in hospital overnight?
You may go home after the procedure; however, some people choose to spend a night in the hospital if the procedure is covered by insurance
How long will you need to take off from work/school?
Average is 1 week; some people can return to work or school in less than a week, while others can take up to 2 weeks to recover
What types of restrictions are there after surgery?**
- Return immediately to non-strenuous activities which do not raise your heart rate or blood pressure, and won’t result in breaking into a sweat
- Resume strenuous activities in 2 weeks
Is the procedure covered by insurance?
If the excess abdominal skin hangs down to at least your pubic bone and you have a history of recurring rashes or sores beneath the overhanging skin, insurance may cover the procedure
Other details:
- If a drainage tube is inserted, it is usually removed 1 to 2 weeks after surgery
- You will need to wear an abdominal binder for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery
- You may shower 48 hours after surgery
- There are no stitches to remove
* Times may vary since each case is unique
** Check with your health care provider about your specific restrictions