Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

What is A Tummy Tuck/Abdominoplasty?

Tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is a procedure that corrects the contour and shape of the abdomen and waist. Women who have extensive stretch marks and droopy abdominal skin enjoy the benefits of this surgery. Abdominoplasty involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen, while tightening weakened abdominal muscles. 

What Are The Risks?

Any surgery carries the risk of bleeding or infection. Occasionally patients develop skin sloughing at the incision site. Problems are more frequent with smokers and non-compliant patients. Minor adjustments to the incision may be needed after a few months to correct any problems.

What Can I Expect After Surgery?

The doctor prescribes oral pain medications and muscle relaxants to keep you comfortable post operatively. Patients will wear a garment or binder for the first 2 weeks after surgery, and most return to work within just 7 days. Patients are usually able to perform the activities of daily living about 48 hours after surgery. Typically, you can resume exercise and more strenuous activity four to six weeks post surgery. 

Will My Skin Stretch Again?

Post-operative weight gain or pregnancy can cause a re-collection of fat and excess skin, and weaken abdominal musculature.

Will a Tummy Tuck Correct My Love Handles?

Having a tummy tuck performed will certainly narrow the waist and flank areas. Laser liposuction is often performed on the waist and flanks during the procedure to enhance your results. 

How Long Does Abdominoplasty Take?

Obviously, and as with most surgeries, procedure length varies on the patient and the extent of the procedure. Abdominoplasty takes about 3-4 hours to perform.

What Will My Scars Look Like?

In a traditional tummy tuck an incision is made from hip to hip, leaving a sizable scar. Fortunately, most scars are placed below the underwear line. A second scar is placed around the belly button. By adding post-operative LASER treatments to the incision sites, our doctors do everything possible to minimize the amount and size of the scar.

What is A “Mini-Tuck”?

The term “mini tuck” refers to a short scar abdominoplasty. The scar used is placed below the bikini line and is only slightly larger than a C-section scar. Suitable candidates have a “pouch” of skin and fat located in the lower abdomen.  This pouch is frequently the result of pregnancy, and despite diet and exercise the patient cannot get rid of the skin and fatty tissue.

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*Individual results may vary