Tummy Tuck

Procedure Description:

A Tummy Tuck, or Abdominal Lipectomy, is a surgery often associated with losing weight or inches around the waist.   In Tummy Tuck surgery, the excess fat, tissue, and skin are removed, the muscles are then tightened, and the remaining skin is repositioned to give the abdomen a flatter, more attractive contour.  While weight loss can certainly be the result of a Tummy Tuck surgery, it should not be the reason for surgery. Tummy Tuck cosmetic surgery is designed for the benefit of a woman who has had multiple pregnancies or anyone who has undergone extreme weight loss.  Those dealing with excess fat, but not sagging skin should consider treatments like liposuction first.

Time Required:
Tummy Tucks usually consist of multiple treatment plans that combine different procedures, which can affect overall length of time.  Tummy Tuck surgery itself can last anywhere from 2 and 5 hours.

Risks:
Tummy Tuck cosmetic surgery like most elective surgeries carry a risk of infection, bleeding, and reaction to anesthesia. Specific Tummy Tuck risks can include noticeable scarring and skin loss, which could result in the need for a second Tummy Tuck operation.

Duration of Results:
Tummy tuck results are subject to change with future weight gain or pregnancy.

Recovery:
Most patients are ready to return to work about 2-4 weeks after Tummy Tuck surgery.   At least 4 weeks should pass before any strenuous activities are even attempted.  Depending on the extent of your Tummy Tuck surgery, your plastic surgeon may recommend up to 8 weeks of no exercise or manual labor.

Insurance Info:
In rare situations such as ones involving gastric bypass surgery, there may be some partial insurance coverage.

Discomfort Level:
After a Tummy Tuck plastic surgery, discomfort is definitely apparent. Prescription pain medication can be taken to help control it.

Anesthesia:
The anesthesia of choice with Tummy Tuck operation is usually general, though local anesthesia with sedation may be used for less extensive surgeries.

Can be Combined With:

For enhanced results, a tummy tuck may be combined with Breast Augmentation, Liposuction, Thigh or Buttock Lift.

Also Known As:

Abdominoplasty. Abdominal Lipectomy.