There are several different tummy tuck techniques. The most common procedure is performed under general anesthesia. In the full tummy tuck, an incision is made across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. Another incision is made around the belly button to free the surrounding skin, and the all of the skin is separated from the abdominal wall. Then the surgeon pulls the loose muscles from the left and the right sides and sutures them together. This tightens the muscles to create a stronger abdominal wall and a smaller waist. Excess skin is removed, and a new opening is made for the belly button at the right position. The incisions are closed with sutures (stitches) and/or staples, and gauze is placed over the incision area. If your only problem area is below the belly button, you may benefit from a less complex procedure called a partial abdominoplasty or partial tummy tuck, which can often be performed on an outpatient basis, under local anesthetic, such as that used by dentists. Or, your surgeon may recommend either a partial or complete abdominoplasty done in conjunction with liposuction to remove fat deposits from the hips, for a better body contour. Sometimes liposuction alone offers the best results