Tummy Tuck Procedure
- Anesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, which means you’ll be asleep during the surgery.
- Incisions: The surgeon makes incisions on the abdomen. The type and length of incisions may vary depending on the extent of the procedure. Common incision patterns include:
- Full Tummy Tuck: An incision is made horizontally along the lower abdomen, from hip to hip, just above the pubic area. A second incision may be made around the navel (belly button).
- Mini Tummy Tuck: A smaller incision is made, often only requiring a horizontal incision above the pubic area.
- Tissue Removal and Muscle Repair: Excess skin and fat are removed from the abdominal area. The underlying abdominal muscles are tightened and sutured together to create a firmer abdominal wall.
- Repositioning the Navel: In a full tummy tuck, the navel is repositioned to maintain a natural appearance after the skin is tightened. In a mini tummy tuck, the navel may not be repositioned.
- Closing Incisions: The incisions are closed with sutures, and sterile dressings or surgical tape are applied to protect the surgical site.
Recovery and Results
- After the surgery, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication.
- Most individuals can return to light activities within a week, but complete recovery may take several weeks to months.
- The final results become more apparent as swelling subsides and scarring may fade over time.
- Tummy tuck surgery can lead to a flatter, more toned abdomen and improved abdominal contour.
Considerations
- Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, expectations, and the most suitable surgical approach (full or mini tummy tuck).
- Understand that like all surgical procedures, tummy tuck surgery carries potential risks and complications, including infection, bleeding, scarring, and changes in sensation.
- Follow your surgeon’s pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery.
Good candidates for a tummy tuck are individuals who have excess abdominal skin and fat, often due to factors such as pregnancy, significant weight loss, or natural aging. Candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations.
The tummy tuck procedure typically includes the following steps:
Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia.
Incisions: The surgeon makes incisions on the abdomen, with incision patterns varying based on the extent of the procedure.
Tissue Removal and Muscle Repair: Excess skin and fat are removed, and abdominal muscles are tightened.
Repositioning the Navel: In some cases, the navel is repositioned to maintain a natural appearance.
Closing Incisions: Sutures and dressings are used to close and protect the incisions.
Recovery time varies, but most individuals can return to light activities within a week. Complete recovery may take several weeks to months. Swelling and bruising are common initially, but they subside over time.
Risks and complications may include infection, bleeding, scarring, changes in sensation, and asymmetry. Choosing an experienced surgeon can help minimize these risks.