Body Contouring

The Floating Abdominoplasty (FAB Procedure)

What is the FAB procedure?

This is a new and innovative procedure that allows us to shape the tummy and tighten the abdominal muscles all through a small incision in the lower abdomen and without any incisions around the belly button.  Through this lower abdominal incision the excess skin is removed and the belly button is detached and elevated from the inside, under the skin, making it "float" above the muscles.  The muscles of the abdomen, or rectus muscles, can then be shaped and tightened all the way from the sternum to the pubic area.  Very often an endoscope or special camera is used to help with this repair since the incision in the lower abdomen is so short.  The skin of the abdomen is then tightened up and the belly button is reattached from the inside.  Liposuction is also performed during the procedure to further shape and sculpt the abs.  The result is tight, flat abs, all with a much shorter scar than with a traditional tummy tuck and no telltale scars around the belly button. 

Who is the ideal candidate for the FAB procedure?

The ideal candidate for the Floating Abdominoplasty (FAB) procedure is someone who has developed significant stretching and weakness of the abdominal muscle after one or more pregnancies.  She may also have a moderate amount of excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen but with minimal stretch marks.  The FAB procedure would remove the excess skin and fat, tighten and repair the abdominal muscles and sculpt the abs and waist, all done through an incision similar to a c-section scar.

What is the recovery like after the FAB procedure?

After the Floating Abdominoplasty (FAB) you will experience some bruising for about 7 days and some swelling that may last 2-4 weeks depending on the amount of liposuction performed.  Within one week to ten days most patients are able to resume their normal everyday activities like working out or heavy lifting. Crunches should be avoided for 3-4 weeks.

This procedure provides an excellent option for those patients who are in pretty good shape but have developed significant weakness of the abdomen after pregnancy, it provides shaping and contouring of the abs with a short scar and no incision around the belly button.  Schedule a consultation with Dr. Polynice to find out if this revolutionary tightening procedure is right for you.