What is a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat and skin from the stomach area. It will also tighten weakened and loose abdominal muscles to give the stomach a flatter, firmer appearance.

During the procedure, an incision is made in the lower abdominal region, allowing the surgeon to access and repair the muscles that comprise the abdominal wall and remove excess fat, tissue, and skin.

Liposuction may be utilized to remove excess fat during a tummy tuck.

Who is a tummy tuck right for?

During the consultation with your doctor, you will be asked about the desired results you are looking to achieve from an abdominoplasty. If you plan to get pregnant or lose weight, discuss this with your surgeon. Abdominoplasty is designed primarily for patients who are mostly satisfied with their weight, but who have excess skin and loose muscle around their midsections. The following conditions could indicate that a tummy tuck is right for you:

• Tightening excess skin to eliminate loose and sagging skin
• Tightening the underlying abdominal muscles to create a firmer abdominal wall
• Removing excess fat to eliminate a protruding tummy
• Maintaining a stable weight, with no plans for future pregnancies

What are my tummy tuck options?

There are many variations both to the design of the incisions and the technique itself. In some instances, it may be possible to avoid an incision around the navel. When the amount of loose skin is minimal and the excess fat deposits are located below the navel, a short horizontal incision is all that is necessary. This procedure is called a partial or “mini” tummy tuck.

In a full abdominoplasty, an incision hidden beneath the bikini line is made from hip to hip. A second incision around the belly button allows it to be repositioned in the appropriate location once the extra skin and fat is removed. The underlying muscles are repaired through these same incisions.

Sometimes liposuction may be used alone, or in conjunction with a tummy tuck, to remove additional abdominal fat and improve contour to the abdomen and waist area.

Your surgeon will discuss with you the particular method that he recommends for achieving the best result in your particular case.

What are the risks of a tummy tuck?

Each year thousands of women undergo successful tummy tuck surgery, experience no major problems and are happy with the results. Significant complications from tummy tucks are infrequent. However, at FORM Face + Body our goal is to make sure you understand what this surgery involves, including possible risks, complications and follow-up care. Tummy tuck surgery poses various risks, including:

• Irregular or slow to heal scars
• Contour irregularities
• Blood or fluid collections (seromas) under the incision area

Your consultation with your surgeon is designed to maximize your outcomes and minimize complications by ensuring that the appropriate procedure is selected and that you have a full understanding of your pre and post-operative instructions. Our office is a constant resource for you in this regard and will carefully guide you through this exciting experience.