An abdominoplasty, also commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is the cosmetic procedure that removes unwanted skin and tissue from the abdominal region. It can also create a smoother, firmer abdominal profile by restoring and tightening stretched abdominal muscles. For our other body procedures, click here.
Who is a Good Candidate?
Individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight or have had their abdomen stretched by pregnancy are typically excellent candidates for tummy tuck procedures.
If you are in overall good health, but weight loss or pregnancy has left you with saggy stretched out skin, you may also be a good candidate for a tummy tuck.
Women who are planning to become pregnant again or anyone not committed to maintaining a healthy weight, however, may not be suitable candidates for a tummy tuck.
The Tummy Tuck Procedure
Before the procedure, a detailed pre-op visit will take place for you to communicate your desired outcome and expectations with Dr. Silver fully. Pictures may be taken to document before and after results as well as outline the expected results of the procedure.
Labs and a complete physical exam may also be required to detect any pre-existing conditions in case special considerations need to be taken. Once all the preliminary tests and exams are done, the surgery can be scheduled.
Tummy tuck surgeries take place under general anesthesia in a safe and controlled environment like the hospital or accredited surgical facility.
After anesthesia or sedation has taken effect, a horizontal incision will be made just above the pubic hairline but below the belly button. If there is excess skin in the upper abdomen that needs to be removed, a second incision around the navel may be made. Once the excess skin and tissue are removed and the abdominal muscles put back in place, the incision is closed with sutures.
Results and Recovery
After the procedure, swelling will be present, but usually within a few weeks, you will be admiring your firmer, flatter abdomen as the results of the tummy tuck become more apparent. Scarring can take a little longer to resolve, but eventually your scar will be less noticeable. Pain from the surgery can be expected for the first week or two, and Dr. Silver will advise you on how to manage it.
Strenuous activity should be avoided for a few weeks in order not to tear open the incision site, so be sure to ask Dr. Silver when it will be safe to resume specific activities. Also, pay attention to all post-op instructions and keep planned follow-up visits for optimal healing and results.
Overall benefits from a Tummy Tuck surgery:
- Firmer, flatter abdomen
- Less sagging skin left over from weight loss or pregnancy
- Improve body contour
- Improved self-confidence and body image
If you are interested in learning more about Tummy Tucks and whether it is the right procedure for you, contact our office today for a detailed evaluation and discussion of your options.