An incision just above the pubic area is used to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen.

Skin is separated from the abdominal wall all the way up to the ribs.

The surgeon draws underlying muscle and tissue together and stitches them, thereby narrowing the waistline and strengthening the abdominal wall.

Abdominal skin is drawn down and excess is removed. With complete abdominoplasty, a new opening is cut for the navel. Both incisions are stitched closed.

After surgery the patient has a flatter, trimmer abdomen. Scars are permanent, but should fade with time.