Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is designed to firm and smooth your abdomen. The procedure removes excess skin and fat, as well as tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall, for a flatter abdominal profile. Occasionally combined with liposuction, the procedure typically results in some level of scarring, while stretch marks in the lower abdomen may be removed.
At Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeon Gene Sloan, MD can help men and women alike achieve a slimmer and more contoured physique. He strives to create a comfortable and warm environment so patients feel confident throughout their entire plastic surgery journey. Dr. Sloan and his team are committed to listening to patient concerns and goals from the tummy tuck consultation appointment all the way to the recovery process.
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What Are the Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery?
A tummy tuck generally features several aesthetic and functional benefits, including:
- Improved Contour and Shape: Removes excess skin and fat, typically resulting in a smoother, flatter abdomen.
- Enhanced Muscle Tone: Tightens weakened or separated abdominal muscles to help improve the overall abdominal profile.
- Increased Confidence: Boosts self-esteem and body image by achieving a more youthful and toned appearance.
- Better Clothing Fit: Allows clothes to fit more comfortably and look more flattering on the body.
- Post-Pregnancy Recovery Support: Particularly beneficial after pregnancy by contributing to a restored pre-pregnancy abdominal look.
Who Is a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
The best candidate for a tummy tuck is an individual wanting to address excess abdominal skin and loose muscles that are not responding to diet and exercise. The procedure can also benefit those who have lost a significant amount of weight and are experiencing a collection of excess skin in the abdominal region. Oftentimes, abdominoplasty patients are women close to their normal body weight whose lower abdominal skin and muscles have been stretched by pregnancy and childbirth. Patients must be in good health and be non-smokers. As this is a major cosmetic surgery procedure, patients typically require at least two weeks before returning to work.
How Is a Tummy Tuck Procedure Performed?
Tummy tuck surgery involves an incision made from one hip to the other above the pubic area and, if necessary, under a C-section scar. Next, the stretched abdominal muscles will be tightened, excess skin will be removed, and the remaining skin will be pulled taut. The length of the procedure may depend on the degree of laxity, a patient’s unique anatomy, and their own cosmetic goals. The resulting scar from abdominoplasty is typically easy to conceal under clothing or swimwear. Tummy tuck surgery is typically performed while the patient is under general anesthesia.
What Does Tummy Tuck Recovery Entail?
Following abdominoplasty, many patients experience mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the treatment area. Those effects should gradually subside during the healing process, and medication can help manage pain during recovery. Patients can often return to their normal daily routines and work in about two weeks. Dr. Sloan advises patients to avoid strenuous activities for roughly six weeks to promote safe healing.
How Long Do Tummy Tuck Results Last?
Tummy tuck results can be long-lasting, especially when accompanied by a stable weight, a healthy diet, and regular exercise. By removing excess fat and skin and tightening abdominal muscles, this surgery can provide a more contoured and flatter abdomen. While the immediate changes may last for many years, the natural aging process, significant weight fluctuations, and pregnancy can alter the results over time. To maintain optimal outcomes, it is essential to commit to a balanced lifestyle.
What Do Tummy Tuck Scars Look Like?
As the incision is made from hip to hip above the pubic area and occasionally under a previous C-section incision scar, tummy tuck scars typically appear as a horizontal line in this region. Initially, scars can be red and raised but generally fade and flatten over time, becoming less noticeable. The final appearance of the scar depends on individual healing characteristics and the surgical technique used. Proper post-operative care, including scar management recommendations and avoiding direct sunlight, can help minimize scar visibility. The location of the surgical scar often means it is easy to hide underneath clothing.
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?
The cost of abdominoplasty will depend on a patient’s unique and individual needs and goals. Once the treatment plan has been developed after the consultation process, Dr. Sloan’s team will be able to provide a more customized quote. Contributing factors to the overall cost may include:
- Whether liposuction is performed in conjunction with abdominoplasty
- The amount of excess skin being removed
- Anesthesia, facility, and surgeon’s fees
Here at Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, we offer flexible financing options for qualified applicants to make the cost of abdominoplasty as convenient as possible, so you don’t have to wait to achieve the body of your dreams.
Download your FREE Abdominoplasty Guide
Click here to download our Abdominoplasty guide which includes additional information about candidacy and the procedure.
For more information, please contact us for a confidential consultation with Dr. Sloan.
