ABSTRACT
Despite different cultures and fashions, the appearance of an ideal abdominal contour has remained relatively constant over the ages. The appearance of a narrow waistline with full hips in a female is rooted in the mating aspects of evolutionary psychology. Diet, exercise, and lifestyle modifications are considered appropriate means, often in conjunction with surgery by which one can rejuvenate the waistline and abdominal region. However, acquired abdominal disfigurement (e.g., from pregnancy, aging, or massive weight change) may be more suitable to surgical intervention, particularly if nonsurgical methods fail to improve the appearance of the abdomen. The purpose of this chapter is to provide guidelines for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of patients seeking abdominal contour improvement.
