The tummy tuck procedure, also known as abdominoplasty, is designed to create a smoother, firmer abdomen.   Often times, despite efforts through dieting and exercise to obtain a flat and well-toned abdomen, excess fat and skin still persists.  Pregnancy, significant fluctuations in weight, and prior surgeries can also leave the tissues of the abdomen and the underlying musculature stretched out and weakened.  Abdominoplasty removes excess fat and skin from the middle and lower abdomen and tightens the underlying musculature creating a firmer, smoother abdomen.  It can be done in combination with liposuction to further define areas such as the flanks, hips and lower back.  In women with significant stretch marks from prior pregnancies, much of this scar tissue may be removed during the tummy tuck procedure.  Variations on abdominoplasty such as the mini-abdominoplasty are also offered to meet each patient’s individual needs.  An abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss.