Guide to Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

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About
Why Get One
Procedure
Preparation
Results
Risks
Recovery
Scars
Next Steps

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure in which excess fat and skin are removed, and weakened muscles are repaired to create a smoother-looking mid-section. 

Key Facts

  • Tummy tuck procedures have been very popular among women, particularly women who have had children.
  • A growing number of men are also seeking tummy tuck procedures.
  • The results are considered permanent, but are easier to maintain with proper diet and exercise.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure to reshape and tighten the abdomen. It removes excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and tightens the weakened muscles of the abdominal wall.

Results

Pre-opPost-op

Pre-opPost-op

Why Have a Tummy Tuck Procedure?

Many people spend countless hours at the gym or staying active to achieve a flat, well-toned abdomen. Yet, some of the most intense diet and exercise routines can fall short of this goal. Even the most active people of otherwise normal body weight can develop a protruding abdomen. Some of the most common reasons for this include:

  • Age
  • Fluctuations in Weight (even small amounts)
  • Genetics
  • Prior Medical Operations
  • Pregnancy
  • Loss of Skin Elasticity

Will Pregnancies After the Procedure Affect Results?

For mothers, the effects of a tummy tuck procedure can be affected by having additional pregnancies after the procedure by stretching the newly tightened, repaired muscles. If you are considering having additional children, postponing a tummy tuck procedure may be a good idea.

How is a Tummy Tuck Performed?

  • A tummy tuck usually requires a low horizontal incision just above the pubic area. The length of the incision depends on how much skin must be removed. 
  • Once the incision is made, the surgeon tightens the muscles around the abdominal wall and trims away loose skin around the lower abdomen. 
  • Liposuction is sometimes performed in conjunction with tummy tuck.

The results of an abdominoplasty will last longer if you maintain your diet and exercise regularly.

What Kind of Anesthesia is Used for a Tummy Tuck?

Abdominoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation.

How Do I Prepare for Tummy Tuck Surgery?

  • Avoid overexposure to the sun.
  • Do not go on a stringent diet.
  • Avoid taking aspirin, Advil, Motrin, or other aspirin-containing products for two weeks prior to surgery.
  • If you are a smoker, stop smoking to aid in healing.

What Results Can I Expect With a Tummy Tuck?

Tummy tuck results are considered permanent, but can be adversely affected by significant weight fluctuations. Eating a healthy diet and exercising is important to avoid large fluctuations in weight.

A tummy tuck procedure works well in conjunction with liposuction to treat difficult fatty deposits that diet and exercise cannot target. However, a tummy tuck will not affect or correct stomach scarring, such as stretch marks. Although there may be some improvement in the areas where excess skin has been removed, these areas are generally below the navel.

What Are the Risks Associated with Tummy Tuck Surgery?

As with all surgeries, a tummy tuck procedure carries some risk of complications, including:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Blood clots
  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Delayed healing 
  • Nerve damage/numbness 

What is Recovery Like After a Tummy Tuck?

  • Surgical drains are usually removed in five to seven days.
  • Sutures are self-dissolving.
  • Returning to work may occur after two to four weeks.
  • A gradual return to exercise helps aid healing.
  • Scars may lighten after six to nine months; scars are not visible under bathing suits.

Will Others Be Able to See My Incision Scars?

Most tummy tucks leave a scar along the lower area of your abdomen. If you experience delayed healing, your incision scar may darken and be more visible. But tummy tuck scars can usually be easily hidden with clothing.

Next Steps

If you’d like to learn more about a tummy tuck or other cosmetic procedures, our team at Columbia is here to help. Call us at (212) 305-3103 or request an appointment online. We accept a number of insurance plans, and our team can help confirm your coverage.

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