Effect of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation on the Post-Operative Abdominoplasty Patient.

Effect of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation on the Post-Operative Abdominoplasty Patient.

The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of rehabilitative training of the abdominal wall with direct current neuromuscular electrical stimulation (the NEUBIE device) on recovery time from abdominoplasty (tummy tuck).

Participants will undergo abdominoplasty surgery and begin rehabilitation training within the first week post-operation. Standardized measurements of recovery progress will be taken starting prior to operation, and at 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks post-operation. Participants will undergo either the traditional standard of care of rest, with minimal activity for at least 6 weeks (control group) or a 5 week training course with the NEUBIE (experimental group), starting with passive electrical stimulation in the first week post-operation, and moving towards more advanced abdominal movements accompanied with stimulation in the subsequent four weeks.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Rectus Diastasis
2. Previous pregnancy
3. Excess localized adiposity in the lower abdomen
4. Excess atrophic skin of the abdomen
5. Physician clearance to participate
6. Scheduled for full abdominoplasty (no mini-abdominoplasty included)

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Currently pregnant
2. Cardiac Pacemaker
3. Active or recent cancer in the abdominal area
4. Active or recent blood clots in the abdominal area
5. History of epilepsy