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Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is one of the more common cosmetic surgery procedures. A tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat and also tightens the abdominal muscles to create a smooth, tight, better contoured waistline and in most cases restores weakened or separated muscles. Good candidates have loose or excess skin due to weight loss, pregnancy, or loss of skin elasticity from stretch marks or aging. This procedure is often combined with liposuction of the love handle areas to give better contour to the entire waistline. It is also commonly done along with the breast augmentation procedure and liposuction, known as the "mommy makeover." The decision to have tummy tuck is extremely personal and you'll have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications are acceptable. Dr. Nichols and his staff will explain in detail the risks associated with surgery. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure you will undergo and any risks or potential complications. Possible risks of abdominoplasty include:
You'll need help If your abdominoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with you for at least the first night following surgery. What happens during tummy tuck surgery? Step 1 – Anesthesia Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Your anesthesiologist will recommend the best choice for you. Step 2 – The incision A full tummy tuck requires a horizontally-oriented incision in the area between the pubic hairline and navel. The shape and length of the incision will be determined by the degree of correction necessary. Through this incision, weakened abdominal muscles are repaired and sutured and excess fat, tissue and skin is removed. A second incision around the navel may be necessary to remove excess skin in the upper abdomen. Step 3 – Closing the incisions Sutures, skin adhesives, tapes or clips close the skin incisions. Step 4 – See the results Your tummy tuck will result in a flatter, firmer abdominal contour that is more proportionate with your body type and weight. The final results may be initially obscured by swelling and your inability to stand fully upright until internal healing is complete. Within a week or two, you should be standing tall and confident about your new slimmer profile. Recovery Following your surgery, dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions, and you may be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to minimize swelling and to support your abdomen as it heals. A small, thin drain tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect. You will be given specific instructions that may include: How to care for the surgical site and drains, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health, and when to follow-up with Dr. Nichols. Previous abdominal surgery may limit the potential results of a tummy tuck. In women who have undergone cesarean section, the existing scars may often be incorporated into the new scar. How much will tummy tuck surgery cost? Costs may include:
Your satisfaction involves more than a fee When choosing a plastic surgeon for a tummy tuck, remember that your comfort with him or her is just as important as the final cost of the surgery. |
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