Tummy Tuck / Abdominoplasty
Achieve a firmer, toned abdomen with abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck. This procedure removes excess skin and fat, tightens abdominal muscles, and repairs hernias, leaving a nearly hidden incision along the underwear line. While recovery may take up to six weeks, the long-lasting results are transformative and well worth it!
Abdominoplasty, or a “tummy-tuck,” can firm up a sagging stomach with an incision that is nearly imperceptibly hidden by blending in with the underwear line of the patient.
A tummy tuck will remove extra skin and surplus fat from the lower portion of the abdomen. In addition, any muscles laying under the skin that have become stretched, separated, or damaged in any way can be tightened up during the procedure, while any existing hernias are repaired. The result is a tighter, firmer abdomen with a hidden incision that no one will ever suspect is present.
Although abdominoplasty can require a longer recovery period than some other forms of cosmetic surgery, it will tone up your figure and provide lasting results that other procedures cannot. Patients can expect to take a period of rest from work and excessive activity ranging from one to six weeks. Activity levels may not return to normal for up to six weeks following the surgery. However, the tummy tuck and the recovery period will prove worth it when there is no longer loose skin, a sagging pot belly, or excessive fat hanging about the abdomen.
What is a Tummy Tuck / Abdominoplasty?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. It often includes tightening the underlying abdominal muscles to create a flatter, smoother midsection. This procedure is commonly sought by individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, pregnancy, or other factors leading to loose skin and weakened abdominal muscles.
How is a tummy tuck performed?
During a tummy tuck, the surgeon typically:
- Makes an incision across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area.
- Removes excess skin and fatty tissue.
- Tightens or repairs underlying abdominal muscles if needed.
- Re-drapes the remaining skin to create a smoother, flatter abdominal profile.
- Repositions the belly button (in a full tummy tuck).
Who is a good candidate for a tummy tuck?
Good candidates generally:
- Have excess, sagging abdominal skin and/or separated or weakened abdominal muscles
- Are in good overall health without serious medical conditions
- Have reached or are near their ideal, stable weight
- Have realistic expectations about the outcome and recovery
A thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon will help determine if a tummy tuck is the best option for you.
Are the results permanent?
Tummy tuck results can be long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. Significant weight fluctuations or pregnancy after the procedure can affect your results.
What does the recovery process look like?
- Initial Recovery: Most patients experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort for the first week or two. Pain medication and supportive garments (compression garments) help manage these symptoms.
- Activity: Light walking is encouraged soon after surgery to promote circulation. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are typically avoided for several weeks.
- Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon will monitor healing and progress.
- Scarring: The incision line will fade over time, but some degree of permanent scarring is expected. Proper scar care and sun protection help minimize its appearance.
What’s the difference between our Mini Tuck® and a Full Tummy Tuck?
Extent of Correction:
- Mini Tuck: Focuses on removing and tightening excess skin below the belly button (lower abdomen). Generally, there is minimal or no muscle repair above the belly button.
- Full Tummy Tuck: Addresses both the upper and lower abdomen, often tightening the full length of the abdominal muscles and repositioning the belly button if necessary.
Incision Size & Placement:
- Mini Tuck: Involves a shorter incision, typically running just above the pubic area.
- Full Tummy Tuck: Requires a longer incision, extending roughly from hip to hip, plus an incision around the belly button for repositioning.
Ideal Candidates:
- Mini Tuck: Best for those with minimal excess skin and no significant muscle separation—usually localized to the lower abdomen.
- Full Tummy Tuck: Suited for individuals with greater amounts of loose skin, stretched or separated abdominal muscles, or more extensive contouring needs.
Recovery Time:
- Mini Tuck: Generally shorter recovery, less discomfort, and reduced downtime compared to a full tummy tuck.
- Full Tummy Tuck: Longer and more involved recovery, as it addresses a larger area and often involves muscle repair.
