Tummy Tuck

View our 3D model to help understand a Tummy Tuck Procedure
A tummy tuck is a procedure (abdominoplasty) that removes excess fat and skin from the midsection, and in most cases, restores underlying muscles that have been weakened or separated. This procedure creates an abdomen that is flatter and firmer and is particularly popular among mothers who are finished having children.

Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation, you will meet with one of our qualified doctors and your patient-care coordinator. They will carefully and completely review your health history, and the doctor will perform a thorough exam. We may also take photographs for your medical records, and he will discuss the risks, benefits, and potential complications as well as explain in detail what the procedure entail

Procedure

The procedure itself will take approximately two to three hours and will require the use of general anesthesia. Once under, one of our doctors will be able to make a horizontal incision between the naval and the pubic hairline, the length of which is primarily determined by the degree of correction necessary.

Once the incision is made, the weakened abdominal muscles will be repaired and sutured, and the excess fat, tissue, and skin will be excised. (It is possible that a second incision may be required around the naval if there is excessive skin in the upper-abdomen region.) Finally, the incisions are closed with sutures. Additionally, many women ask if their existing cesarean-section scar can be integrated into their new scar, and the answer is yes; this may be possible.

Recovery

Additionally, you will have a small, thin tube in place to drain any excess blood or fluid, which will be removed at your ten-day follow-up appointment. Finally, you will be given pain medications and techniques to alleviate any post-op discomfort as well as specific instructions on caring for your incisions.

Regarding returning to your normal schedule, most patients return to work in two to four weeks; however, this may vary depending on the nature of your employment (i.e. desk job vs. heavy lifting).

Risks

There are complications that can occur with any procedure, and although they are rare, our plastic surgeons will discuss these in detail with you both at the initial consultation as well as at your pre-operative appointment. Because of his advanced training and methodical technique, complications are extremely unlikely, as are revisions.