Significant weight loss, childbirth, or natural changes due to hormonal aging causes many people to feel uncomfortable with the appearance of the belly. Excess skin can create rolls above and below the waist.  Loose abdominal muscles can give the illusion of being heavy or still pregnant.  Therefore, removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen can really improve your self-confidence and make you smile again when you look at yourself in the mirror.

Abdominoplasty, also known as a Tummy Tuck, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen, as well as tighten the abdominal muscles to achieve a flatter, firmer, and more aesthetically pleasing abdomen after pregnancy or significant weight loss.

Almost all women who have had children are good candidates.  It is  ideal for women with loose skin and fat or rolls in the lower abdomen, and  weakened muscles after pregnancy,  as a result of weight loss or aging,  or those seeking a permanent solution to enhance the contour and firmness of their abdomen.

The ideal patient for a Tummy Tuck is a man or woman who has loose skin on the abdomen as a result of weight loss or a large amount of fat that does not respond well to diet and exercise.

The results of a Tummy Tuck are immediately noticeable, improve over the first three months, and are long-lasting. Scars will begin to fade in approximately 3 months.

During the traditional Tummy Tuck procedure, the surgeon will start by marking the skin to be removed while you are standing up in the pre-op area.  Once you’re asleep the surgeon removes a big football shaped area of skin from the belly button to just above the pubic hair. The skin of the upper abdomen is lifted  up to the ribs like opening the hood of a car.  The abdominal muscles are then tightened down the center like lacing up a corset.  The bed is bent to allow as much skin as possible to be removed by stretching out the upper abdominal skin located above the belly button.  After the skin is closed a new “buttonhole” is made for the belly button to emerge through. We do not use drains in most cases.  All the stitches are under the surface and dissolvable.

To determine the technique to be used, the surgeon will have a preliminary consultation  with the patient.  Most people are candidates for a traditional tummy tuck, but there are other options available if there is a tremendous amount of loose skin in all directions. or if there are previous scars that may affect the healing process.  There are even times when a circumferential procedure is recommended. 

It can be combined with liposuction for a more streamlined body contour. A Tummy Tuck usually takes between 3 and 6 hours. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia.

The cost of a Tummy Tuck can vary depending on the individual’s needs, but on average, it ranges from $7,500 to $14,000.

Recovery from a Tummy Tuck can be more extensive than from liposuction. You may experience some discomfort and pain, which can be managed with medication prescribed by your specialist.

You can return to your normal activities after 4 to 6 weeks, although this timeframe varies from person to person. Avoid lifting heavy objects during the first few weeks to protect the repaired muscles. Walk lightly to activate circulation and speed up recovery without straining your abdomen. Maintain a balanced diet that includes regular physical activity in your daily routine.

Plastic surgery is a significant investment with great results, but you don’t have to see it as something unattainable. At Ideal Plastic Surgery, we have made various arrangements to help you achieve your ideal version. We offer various financing options that make it easier for more people to access the treatments they want, providing flexibility in terms of payment plans and interest rates.

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