Abdominoplasty is typically performed to remove excess abdominal skin and tighten underlying musculature. The extent of the procedure depends on what changes are desired and what your surgeon deems appropriate. Abdominoplasty usually is performed in a hospital under local anesthesia with sedation. The patient will remain in the hospital for two to three days with hips bent to reduce tension on the abdominal area. The dressing is replaced by an appropriate abdominal supporter before the patient is discharged. The elimination of sagging superfluous skin and excess fatty tissue results in a firmer, flatter abdominal appearance and a narrower waistline.