Tummy Tuck

Many strive for a flat and well-toned abdomen through exercise and weight control.  However, regardless of effort, sometimes these methods may not achieve the results you are looking for. The most common causes for lack of results include heredity, multiple pregnancies, prior surgery or significant fluctuation in weight, or congenital spine abnormalities that affect your posture. 

To ensure a tummy tuck is right for you, our doctors will consult with you to learn about your goals and expectations for the procedure. With your personal health in mind, a tailored plan will be created to achieve your desired results and help you discover your best self.
 

What is a Tummy Tuck?

Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a major surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. Possible areas to treat may include the center of the abdomen or may extend to the entire area between the lower rib cage and pubic bone, as well as to the sides and back.

Abdominal contouring, which is part of a tummy tuck, can be performed using a variety of techniques:

• A tummy tuck removes unwanted fat, tissues and skin excision when excess fat is combined with loose, sagging skin and tissue
• A tummy tuck can correct abdominal muscles that have weakened or separated, a condition called diastasis

A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss or an appropriate exercise plan. Although your results are technically permanent, your outcome may be affected by significant fluctuations in weight. If you are considering future pregnancies or planning substantial weight loss, we advise that you postpone the procedure.
 

My Tummy Tuck

When consulting with your doctor, your tummy tuck will be individualized according to your specific needs:

• Excess, localized fat in the abdominal area
• Loose and sagging skin in the abdominal region
• Weakened or separated abdominal muscles due to pregnancy, weight loss or aging

One or all of these conditions may be present and can be surgically improved by a tummy tuck. Depending on your body type and individualized procedure, the surgical removal of excess fat and skin may be combined with liposuction during a tummy tuck or used to contour other areas of the body by removing localized excess fat deposits. Your incision length and pattern may depend on the amount and location of the excess skin to be removed, as well as your doctor’s judgment.

You can expect a tummy tuck procedure to last three hours, while a tummy tuck combined with liposuction may take four to six hours.
 

Recovery

Recovery is an important consideration when making the decision about a tummy tuck.  It may take weeks or months to feel like your old self again. If you start out in top physical condition with strong abdominal muscles, recovery from the
procedure will likely be much faster.

We realize that you may lead a busy life – whether you are a mom, professional or both – and the amount of recovery time is important when making your decision. Below, you can gain a better understanding of your recovery time. 

• Avoid bending, straining or lifting anything heavy (more than 10 pounds) for several days
• You may return to light, normal activity within a few days of surgery
• Initial wound healing may take 10-14 days, and any sutures will be removed some time after that
• Most people return to work after four weeks, while others take four to six weeks

It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions to heal properly and ensure the greatest results. It is crucial to take time for yourself and rest. Remember, you are doing this for you.