First performed for medical purposes, the tummy tuck — also known as abdominoplasty — has been around for nearly 100 years. However, this procedure is now commonly performed for both medical and cosmetic benefits, and the surgical techniques involved have come a long way since the first tummy tuck was performed in France.
Early Tummy Tuck Techniques and Obstacles
In the 1890s, French surgeons began using abdominoplasty to treat umbilical hernias where excess skin was also a concern. They found that by removing the excess skin, they could more easily access and correct the herniated tissue.
As a byproduct of these procedures, the surgeons quickly discovered the noticeable cosmetic benefits of abdominoplasty as well. Thus, tummy tucks were soon used to remove loose abdominal skin for purely aesthetic purposes.
However, as with most early surgical techniques, surgeons ran into certain cosmetic issues that came about as a result of the procedure. For example, early tummy tucks removed the belly button without reconstructing it, creating an unnatural appearance.
Scarring was another concern, as suturing techniques were still rudimentary, and the optimal incision site for such a procedure had not yet been determined.
Modern Tummy Tuck Techniques
Today, abdominoplasty is one of the most common cosmetic procedures year after year.
Fast-forward to the last 30 years, when most of the major advancements in tummy tuck techniques have occurred. Greatly improved incision and suturing techniques, belly button reconstruction and the addition of liposuction now allow for much smoother and better-contoured final results, as well as a more streamlined recovery.
If you’re interested in learning more about the details of today’s most advanced tummy tuck techniques, or if you’d like to schedule a consultation, please contact us online or call our Sacramento office at 916-983-9895.
