abdominoplasty
Pronunciation: ab-DOM-in-oh-plas-tee
Surgical procedure to remove excess abdominal skin and fat while tightening underlying muscle fascia.
Full Definition
Abdominoplasty, commonly called a 'tummy tuck,' is a body contouring procedure that addresses excess skin, fat, and muscle laxity in the abdomen. The procedure typically involves a horizontal incision above the pubic area, extensive undermining of abdominal skin, excision of redundant tissue, and plication of separated rectus muscles (diastasis recti). Variations include mini-abdominoplasty for limited lower abdominal concerns and extended abdominoplasty for circumferential body contouring. The procedure is often combined with liposuction for optimal body contouring results.
Usage
Usage note: Preferred formal term over 'tummy tuck' in professional medical documentation.
In Context
- "Full abdominoplasty with muscle plication restored the patient's pre-pregnancy abdominal contour." — operative note
- "Mini-abdominoplasty addresses infraumbilical concerns without umbilical repositioning." — consultation note