The Tummy Tuck Procedure (Abdominoplasty)

Information About the Tummy Tuck Procedure and What It Helps.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

Tummy tuck surgery, or abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that restores a youthful appearance to the abdomen. Our plastic surgeons typically perform this procedure for women with sagging skin and fat due to pregnancy, aging, and gravity.

What are the Benefits of an Abdominoplasty?

One benefit of this procedure is the removal of excess skin and fat from the belly. Our surgeon will restore the muscles for a smoother profile.

Abdominoplasty is a good surgical option for patients who have a loose and sagging abdomen that protrudes. Common causes include:

• Pregnancy
• Significant weight loss
• Aging
• Heredity

The procedure typically takes three hours. They involve two cuts: one around the belly button and another from one hip to the other. After making the incisions, we will then remove the excess fat and skin from the abdomen muscles. Using sutures, we will then tighten the abdomen muscles to keep them in place.

Our surgeon will place the sutures and then use more to re-secure the outer layer of skin. Then, they will relocate your belly button (navel) to a more natural location on the abdomen. Finally, they will use sutures and a surgical binder to close the incision and keep it in place.

Often, surgeons combine tummy tucks with breast augmentation, liposuction, and facelifts to create a mommy makeover.

What Tummy Tuck Recovery Looks Like

You can recover from your tummy tuck surgery at home. Drain tubes will remain in place, to help clear any excess fluid. The surgeon will also prescribe pain medication to alleviate discomfort.

During the first week, a patient should sleep on their back, to allow the waist to stay slightly flexed during sleep. The use of pillows under your back and knees will help to support this position.

We encourage patients to take small walks around the house. Patients should stay away from strenuous activities since it can strain the sutures and surgical site. 

After a week or two, the surgeon will schedule a follow-up to remove the drains. Then, they will ensure that everything is healing up as expected.

Who is a Good Tummy Tuck Candidate?

Fit, healthy individuals are usually the ideal candidates for tummy tuck surgery. It is best for patients who are at or near their ideal weight and have realistic expectations for their surgical results.

Good Candidates Also Include:

• Completed any weight loss goals they may have had.
• Anyone who has problematic fat pockets or loose skin that protrudes from the abdomen region.
• Non-smoker or willing to stop smoking for a period prior to the surgery and during the recovery period.
• Able to take about a week off from work or other obligations.
• Willing to follow post-surgical care requirements to ensure optimal results.

A person who meets these criteria is likely a good candidate.

Schedule a Tummy Tuck Consultation

For more information about a tummy tuck or to see if it’s the right procedure for your goals, schedule a consultation. During the consultation, share your goals with our team. We’ll then determine the best surgical approach to help you achieve them.

Tummy Tuck Before and After Photos

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