A tummy tuck, or "abdominoplasty," is designed to produce a more flattering mid-section with the removal of excess skin and fat, and tightening of loose abdominal muscles. This procedure will trim down an unwanted "pouch," produce a flatter abdomen, and help to provide overall body sculpting. For optimal results (and depending on your condition), a tummy tuck can be performed in conjunction with liposuction.A smaller version, which is called a "partial abdominoplasty" (or mini-tummy tuck), can be performed on a patient whose pouch is primarily in the lower abdomen. A tummy tuck typically takes between two to three hours, depending on if the patient chooses to have another procedure performed in combination with his or her surgery. Abdominoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia.During a full tummy tuck, the surgeon will start by making a long incision from hip to hip, which will loosen the skin from the abdominal muscle. A second incision will also be made to free the naval from the surrounding tissue. Next, the doctor will separate the skin from the abdominal wall all the way up to the ribs and lift a large skin flap to reveal the vertical muscles in the abdomen. The muscles are then tightened, pulled close together, and stitched into their new position -- providing a firmer abdominal wall and slimmer waistline.The extra skin is then removed once the skin flap is stretched down. Dr. Kim will create a new hole for the navel, in which it will be stitched into place. Finally, the incisions will be stitched, the dressing will be applied over the abdominal region, and a temporary tube may be inserted to the surgical site in order to drain excess fluid.During your initial consultation, Dr. Kim will help to determine if a partial abdominoplasty is most conducive to your body.Informational & Patient Experience video on this plastic surgery procedure. Presented by Dr. David Kim of Beverly Hills Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (www.beverlyhillsplasticsurgery.com).L...