Discover the benefits of tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) – a transformative procedure that removes excess fat and skin while restoring abdominal muscles, creating a smoother and firmer profile. Achieve the desired flat and well-toned abdomen, especially when factors like aging, heredity, pregnancy, prior surgery, or weight fluctuations have led to a protruding or sagging midsection. When exercise and weight control fall short, tummy tuck surgery provides a tailored solution for enhanced abdominal aesthetics.

A Tummy Tuck won’t: 

• Substitute for weight loss or a proper exercise program. 

Is it right for me?

A Tummy Tuck is a highly individualized procedure, and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else’s desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image. 

A Tummy Tuck may be a good option for you if you are:

• Good physical health and stable weight
• Realistic expectations
• Non-smoker
• Discontent with the appearance of your abdomen

Your consultation is your time to ask the doctor about the procedure you’re considering, how he thinks it will work for you and any concerns you may have.

Questions to Consider:

• What is the simplest and safest surgery to help me achieve my goals?
• Are other options available?
• What results can I expect, and how long do the typical results last?
• Where will scars be located, and how noticeable will they be?
• Will scars fade over time, and how long will this take?

Your surgeon will:

• Assess your overall health and any pre-existing conditions or risk factors.
• Capture photographs for reference.
• Examine your body and take measurements. 
• Discuss your options. 
• Recommend a course of treatment. 

After your consultation with the physician, you will meet with the practice manager to discuss procedure costs.

Comprehensive comprehension of every facet of your mommy makeover procedure is crucial. It’s normal to experience a range of emotions, from excitement about the anticipated transformation to a bit of preoperative stress. Don’t hesitate to openly discuss these feelings with your plastic surgeon.

There are several things to do prior to your procedure that will make your recovery as smooth as possible and ease your pre-procedure anxiety.

Your Pre-Op Checklist:

• Make sure you have arranged for someone to drive you to surgery and stay with you for at least 24 hours. 
• Consult with your surgeon and adhere to their instructions.
• Take prescribed medications or modify current medication as directed.
• Complete necessary lab tests within 30 days of your procedure.
• Cease smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use.
• Refrain from taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements to mitigate potential bleeding.

 Day of Surgery:

• Be on time for your scheduled surgery appointment.
• Bring a companion aged 18 or older.
• Refrain from eating or drinking after midnight prior to your surgery.
• Use antibacterial soap for a thorough body wash before the procedure.
• Opt for loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and remove on the day of your surgery.

Anesthesia:

Medications for comfort during arm lift surgery are administered, with options including intravenous sedation or general anesthesia, tailored to your specific needs by your doctor.

The Incision: 

A full tummy tuck involves a horizontal incision between the pubic hairline and the belly button, shaped by the amount of excess skin. The abdominal skin is lifted, weakened muscles are repaired, and a second incision around the navel may be made for upper abdomen skin removal. The upper abdominal skin is pulled down, excess skin is trimmed, and the remaining skin is sutured, creating a new belly button opening that is sutured into place. 

Closing the Incision: 

Deep sutures within underlying tissues shape and support the newly contoured areas. Closure of skin incisions may involve the use of sutures, skin adhesives, tapes, or clips.

Recovery durations after a Tummy Tuck vary for each patient (days to months).

Following your tummy tuck procedure, dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions. To minimize swelling during the healing process, an elastic bandage or compression garment may be wrapped around your abdomen.

You will receive detailed instructions covering:

• Proper care post-surgery
• Medications for healing and infection prevention
• Specific signs to monitor at the surgical site and for overall health
• Follow-up schedule with your plastic surgeon

Ensure you address specific queries about your individual recovery:

• Post-surgery destination.
• Prescribed medications.
• Duration of dressings/bandages and removal timeline.
• Are the stitches scheduled for removal, and if so, when is the expected timeframe? 
• When can I safely resume normal activities and exercise? 
• What is the recommended timing for my follow-up care appointment?

Your plastic surgeon and/or their team will provide detailed explanations of surgery-associated risks. Consent forms will be signed to ensure your full comprehension of the procedure and potential complications.

Some Risks Involved:

• Anesthesia risks
• Bleeding
• Fatty tissue under the skin might die (fat necrosis)
• Fluid accumulation (seroma)
• Infection