Women and men who have loose abdominal skin and fat that is concentrated in the abdomen can benefit from abdominoplasty (also known as a "Tummy Tuck"). Sometimes these conditions are inherited. In other instances, substantial weight loss may cause abdominal skin to become flaccid.

Abdominoplasty also can tighten muscles that have been separated and weakened by pregnancy. The procedure may somewhat improve the appearance of stretch marks, especially those located below the navel.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?:

You may be a good candidate for abdominoplasty if you have one or more of the following conditions:

Excess or sagging abdominal skin

An abdomen that protrudes and is out of proportion to the rest of your body

Abdominal muscles that have been separated and weakened Excess fatty tissue that is concentrated in your abdomen

If you plan to become pregnant or lose weight in the future, you should discuss this with your plastic surgeon. Scarring from previous abdominal surgery may limit the results of your abdominoplasty.