Abdominoplasty /æbˌdɑː.mɪ.nəˈplæs.ti/ is a medical term that refers to a surgical procedure also known as a tummy tuck. The word is composed of three parts: abdomen, meaning the lower part of the belly; -o-, a common combining vowel; and -plasty, which means shaping or molding. The phonetic transcription shows that the word is pronounced with the primary stress on the fourth syllable and the secondary stress on the second syllable. This spelling and pronunciation are typical of medical terms that are derived from Latin and Greek roots.
Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at reshaping and tightening the abdomen by removing excess fat and skin while restoring weakened or separated abdominal muscles. Commonly referred to as a "tummy tuck," abdominoplasty is usually performed for aesthetic purposes but may also be necessary in cases where there has been significant weight loss or after pregnancy.
During the procedure, typically performed under general anesthesia, an incision is made from hip to hip just above the pubic area. The surgeon then removes excess fat and skin, often using liposuction for additional contouring. The underlying abdominal muscles may be tightened and sutured to create a more defined waistline and a firmer abdominal wall. The remaining skin is then repositioned and stitched back together, often resulting in a flatter and more toned appearance. In some cases, a new opening is created for the navel.
While abdominoplasty is generally considered safe and effective, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure, such as bleeding, infection, scarring, and prolonged healing time. Patients are advised to have realistic expectations and understand that it is not intended as a weight loss method or a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Post-surgery, individuals may need to follow specific instructions for recovery, including limited physical activity and wearing compression garments to aid in proper healing. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are crucial to monitor progress and address any concerns.
The word "abdominoplasty" originates from the combination of two Latin words: "abdomen" and "plastia".
- "Abdomen" is derived from the Latin word "abdomin-" which refers to the belly area or the region below the thorax in humans.
- "Plastia" comes from the Greek word "plastḗr" meaning "to form" or "to shape".
Therefore, "abdominoplasty" literally means shaping or forming the abdomen. It refers to a surgical procedure commonly known as a tummy tuck, which involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightening the abdominal muscles.