Like all endoscopic procedures, this type of abdominoplasty can really be considered Band-Aid surgery. Working entirely through tiny incisions often limited to a single incision around the belly button, we can tighten up the abdominal muscles by suturing with special instruments, while viewing through telescopes and cameras that are designed for the job. Laser surgery can be used to assist the dissection. It is applicable for patients with moderate to mild muscle bulging, primarily in patients who have not had previous major surgery of the abdomen. Endoscopic abdominoplasty is an exciting new horizon in cosmetic surgery.
Recovery is generally very prompt.
In fact most patients resume relatively normal activity within a few days. Discomfort is somewhat more than liposuction alone, but usually does not interfere with normal activity after a week or so. Surgical drains are required for a few days to prevent accumulation of fluid that can sometimes occur. If fluid builds up after the drains are removed, it may require removal by aspiration with a syringe. At the time of this writing we have seen few other complications, although bleeding and infection are possible.