A “complete” or “full” abdominoplasty at the Maryland Plastic Surgery Center usually takes about three hours, depending on the extent of work required. Most commonly, the incision extends from hip to hip, just above the pubic area. A second incision around the umbilicus is made to free the navel from surrounding tissue. Next, the skin is separated from the abdominal wall all the way up to your ribs. The underlying abdominal muscles are tightened by pulling them close together and stitching them into their new position. This provides a firmer abdominal wall and narrows the waistline. The excess skin is then stretched and removed. A new hole is cut for your navel, which is then stitched in place. Finally, the incisions will be stitched, dressings will be applied, and a temporary tube will be inserted to drain excess fluid from the surgical site.