Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery. Portions of the lower abdominal tissues have been removed and the navel repositioned. The remaining skin flaps will be sutured. (Photography by MM Michele Del Guercio. Reproduced by permission.)

In an abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, an incision is made in the abdomen (usually from hip bone to hip bone). Excess skin and fat is removed (B). The muscles may be tightened (C). The navel will be placed into the proper position (D), and the major incision closed beneath it. (Illustration by GGS Inc.)