Abdominoplasty - Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, restores a smooth, toned appearance to the abdomen. This procedure involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen in order to tighten weakened or separated muscles, creating a smoother and firmer tummy.
A tummy tuck typically involves a horizontal incision below the abdomen and just above the pubic area. As a result, a scar at the bikini line will be permanent, though it will fade with time and is generally unseen with most underwear or swimsuits.
If you are still working toward substantial weight loss, you might need to hold off on this procedure until you have seen how your body adjusts, and how much elasticity your skin bears once your weight is stable.
Depending on the case, a tummy tuck can be fairly minimal, dealing with the lower abdomen only. In other cases, tummy tuck can be combined with minor liposuction or a thigh lift in order to reshape the midsection.
Who is a good candidate for tummy tuck?
Good candidates will typically meet these conditions:
- at a stable weight, but with a midsection that is out of proportion or refusing to shrink via exercise or diet
- has lost a substantial amount of weight, resulting in loose abdominal skin
- has had multiple pregnancies, resulting in a loss of skin elasticity around their midsection
What to Expect After a Tummy Tuck
After a tummy tuck, the abdomen will be swollen for a few days and some pain is likely. Dr. Hess will prescribe a pain medication to alleviate any pain or discomfort.
Surface stitches and deeper stitches are usually dissolvable and do not need to be removed.
Full recovery may take weeks or months, depending on the individual and procedure. Those with stronger abdominal muscles will find a shortened recovery as their body more easily adapts. Regardless of physical condition, it is crucial to work out an exercise program, as this will help reduce the swelling, lower the chance of blood clots, and work to further tone your new body.
Once fully recovered, a tummy tuck can produce excellent results, generally lasting as long as a balanced diet and regular exercise are maintained. A great resource for real patient stories about tummy tuck surgery can be found on RealSelf.com, where Dr. Hess has also answered hundreds of patient questions about plastic surgery. You should also view our tummy tuck before and after photos to see real patients that have undergone a tummy tuck here at our Fairfax plastic surgery office.
The left belly button, by another surgeon, demonstrates the common closure during a tummy tuck - just a round, uninspired belly button.
The right belly button, by Dr. Hess, restores the belly button to its original shape-oval with a hood over the top. Since it is the focal point of the abdomen after the tummy tuck it must be aesthetically pleasing.
