The abdominal elevator comprises a body portion made from a flexible foam, a polymer, paper or fabric having at least one upper edge and, optionally, two or more side edges, with a shape ranging from triangular to rectangular to oval with one or more straps attached to one or more of the edges and also having an anterior surface and a posterior surface having a adhesive applied to the posterior surface. The straps of the abdominal elevator are attached to the bedrail using a secure method that comfortably elevates, retracts and retains the abdominal pannus during a surgical procedure that requires access to the lower abdomen and/or groin area that would otherwise be obstructed.