Abdominoplasty, more commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a popular cosmetic surgery that can transform the abdominal area. If you want a flatter, firmer abdomen, a tummy tuck could help, whether your goal is to restore your pre-pregnancy figure or address changes following significant weight loss.
Before the procedure, you should understand what the surgery involves and what to expect during recovery. Board-certified Vivian Hsu, MD, at Best Impression Cosmetic Surgery in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, answers questions and helps patients achieve the look they want for their abdomen.
Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure to remove excess fat and skin from the abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles. It is especially beneficial for people with loose skin and separated muscles, a condition known as diastasis recti.
It’s commonly performed after significant weight loss or pregnancy, both can stretch and weaken the abdominal muscles, leaving behind sagging skin that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise. The result is a smoother, more contoured abdomen that can significantly increase your core strength and confidence.
Not all tummy tucks are the same. Variations of the procedure are designed to meet different needs. The most common is the full tummy tuck. It involves a long incision from hip to hip, allowing Dr. Hsu to remove a significant amount of skin and fat while tightening the abdominal muscles.
If you only need a minor correction, the mini tummy tuck may be better suited for you. A smaller incision targets only the lower abdomen, making it ideal for patients who don’t require extensive muscle tightening or skin removal.
An extended tummy tuck may be necessary for those who have lost a large amount of weight. The surgery uses a larger incision and addresses the abdomen, flanks, or sides to create a more balanced, contoured figure.
A tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure; it refines the abdomen after weight loss or pregnancy. Ideal candidates for tummy tuck surgery are generally healthy individuals with realistic expectations. The procedure is especially effective for people with excess abdominal skin or muscle separation that diet and exercise alone cannot improve.
If you plan to have more children or are still losing weight, it is typically recommended that you wait until you reach your goal weight and have completed your family planning before undergoing surgery.
Tummy tuck surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, meaning you’ll be asleep. Once you’re under anesthesia, Dr. Hsu will make an incision along the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. Depending on the type of tummy tuck, additional incisions may be necessary around the belly button.
Dr. Hsu typically removes excess fat with liposuction and tightens the abdominal muscles to restore their original position. The excess skin will also be removed, and the remaining skin will be repositioned and secured over the newly contoured muscles.
Finally, the incisions are closed with sutures, and Dr. Hsu fits you in a compression garment to help reduce swelling and bruising and to support your new shape as you heal.
Recovery from tummy tuck surgery is gradual and requires patience. Immediately after the procedure, you will likely experience some pain, swelling, and bruising, which Dr. Hsu can help you manage with prescription pain medication. A compression garment is usually worn for several weeks to help reduce swelling and support the abdominal tissues as they heal.
During the first few days, you should rest and avoid strenuous activity. Depending on the physical demands of their job, most people can return to work after one to two weeks. However, avoiding heavy lifting and intense exercise for at least four to six weeks is critical to give your body time to heal and prevent complications.
Full recovery can take three to six months. Though swelling will decrease within a few weeks, some residual swelling may persist for months. Initially, scars will appear red and raised but will fade over time. We will advise you on how to care for your incisions, when it’s safe to resume normal activities, including exercise, and how to care for your scars.
As with any surgery, a tummy tuck carries risks, including infection, bleeding, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. Although these risks are relatively rare, following our instructions carefully is important to minimize potential complications.
A consultation with Dr. Hsu will help you understand the procedure's risks and benefits and how they relate to your unique anatomy and needs.
Tummy tuck results can last many years, provided you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Significant weight fluctuations or pregnancy can alter the appearance of your abdomen, so it’s essential to keep a consistent weight after surgery.
Even though the procedure cannot prevent the natural aging process, it offers long-lasting improvements to the shape and tone of your abdomen.
Undergoing a tummy tuck can be a transformative experience, offering both physical and emotional benefits. By understanding the procedure, the recovery process, and the potential risks, you can make a more informed decision about whether abdominoplasty is right for you.
If you have questions or want to find out if a tummy tuck is right for you, call or schedule an appointment online today.
