Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Abdominoplasty is a procedure that removes excessive skin and fat from the middle and lower part of the abdomen to improve abdominal contour. The skin and fat layers are separated from the muscles of the abdomen and any weakness of the abdominal muscles is repaired and/or tightened. The umbilicus (belly button) is repositioned and the skin pulled tight. The extra skin and fat are removed with an incision that typically runs hip-to-hip, sitting low in the bikini line. As with many other body contour surgeries, patients are exchanging contour for scars.
Though rare, post-operative complications from any procedure are possible. These may include bleeding (hematoma), blood clots (PE or DVT), infection, seroma, asymmetry, contour abnormalities, delayed healing, and/or unsatisfactory scarring. Altered sensations (numbness, tingling, and/or hypersensitivity) are to be expected while you are healing, and can persist for several weeks or months. Our health care team follows you closely to recognize and treat any complications, should they arise.
Consultation for this procedure includes a full exam of the proposed surgical area(s), review of patient goals, education on the procedure(s), and explanation of potential risks, complications, and benefits.
Additional details:
Anesthesia: General Anesthetic
Length: Approximately 1.5-3 hours
Preparation:
Prior to booking, you should ensure you have a responsible adult available to care for and assist you, including 24/7 support for the first 3-5 days. This includes making meals, mobility assistance, drain management/incision care, caring for your animals/children, cleaning, etc. We also recommend having someone available to drive you to your post-op appointment(s). You must be prepared to pay a 15% deposit to secure your surgical date, and the remaining balance four weeks prior to your procedure.
Abdominoplasty patients may be asked to stay at the adjoining hotel (Parkside) for one night post-surgery. Your surgeon will discuss this with you, if applicable. Fees associated with this stay are in addition to the surgical procedure quote and would be the responsibility of the patient.
Recovery:
Patients and their caregivers will be instructed on drain care, dressings, pain management, and positioning by our clinic nurses. You will be discharged with a supportive garment (binder) in place. Most patients have drains in place postoperatively. You will be seen in office for postoperative care with our nurses, typically about 1-2 weeks after surgery, and subsequently as needed.
You must refrain from strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting (including lifting and carrying your children), and excessive abdominal movement/engagement of the abdominal muscles for about six weeks after surgery. Most patients return to physical jobs and start to reincorporate physical activity around 4-6 weeks and gradually work up to their preoperative activity level. Supportive garments must be worn for at least six weeks.
As with any surgery, results cannot be guaranteed. The goal of cosmetic plastic surgery is improvement, and perfection is not attainable. Final results depend on many factors and healing can vary from patient to patient. It is important to remember to have patience during convalescence to allow your body time to recuperate and settle.
Long-Term Follow-Up:
Patients will be seen in office by the surgeon approximately 6-9 months after surgery for assessment and postoperative photographs.
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