A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, aims to remove excess fat and skin from the midsection while tightening the underlying muscles to create a flatter shape. Abdominoplasty is a popular surgery among Atlanta, GA, women following pregnancy, and in both men and women with excess skin and fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. Plastic Surgery Group of Atlanta is proud to use advanced surgical techniques that create stunning results. Learn about our cutting-edge process by calling our team for a consultation today. We create custom surgical plans based on your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Quick Facts About Tummy Tuck Surgery
- Sedation: Tummy tuck surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure patients remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Potential Benefits: A tummy tuck can remove excess abdominal fat and skin, tighten weakened muscles, create a smoother, flatter abdominal contour, and help improve self-confidence.
- Longevity of Results: Results can be long-lasting when patients maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle habits.
- Recovery: Recovery often involves wearing a compression garment, resting during the first 48 hours, walking periodically to encourage healthy circulation, managing discomfort with prescribed medication, and gradually returning to exercise after about four to six weeks.
What Is Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Tummy tuck surgery is a body contouring procedure designed to improve the appearance of the abdomen. It typically involves removing excess skin and fat while tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles to create a firmer, flatter midsection. Many patients consider tummy tuck surgery after pregnancy, significant weight loss, or aging has caused loose skin and stretched muscles that do not improve with diet and exercise alone. Depending on the patient’s needs, this procedure can address concerns in the lower abdomen only or the entire abdominal area. Additionally, a tummy tuck can help patients feel more confident in their appearance.
Tummy Tuck Or Liposuction?
Patients with loose skin in the lower abdomen may be better candidates for skin tightening procedures like a tummy tuck. However, those primarily concerned with unwanted belly fat may want to consider liposuction. Based on your specific needs, goals, and anatomy, our surgeon can determine which body contouring treatments are right for you during your initial appointment.
How Is A Tummy Tuck Performed?
Full Tummy Tuck
A traditional (full) tummy tuck is typically suitable for patients with a moderate amount of excess skin in their midsection. It is commonly performed on women post-pregnancy or those who have lost a significant amount of weight. During surgery, an incision extends from hipbone to hipbone, which grants the surgeon access to a greater portion of the internal structures. Liposuction can then be used to remove fat before the abdominal muscles are pulled and tightened. The belly button is usually repositioned for natural placement.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Patients in relatively good shape but who desire a flatter tummy may be eligible for a mini tummy tuck (known as a “Brazilian tummy tuck”). In most cases, these individuals have loose abdominal fascia, but the muscles haven’t been stretched to the point where a full tummy tuck is necessary. During surgery, a smaller incision can be made along the lower abdomen. Then, liposuction is used to remove excess fat and the remaining skin is pulled tight. The belly button is not typically affected by this surgery.
Extended Tummy Tuck
An extended tummy tuck is often reserved for patients who require skin tightening and body contouring following substantial weight loss. The extended tummy tuck requires a longer incision that extends beyond the hips, as well as another one around the navel. Liposuction is also used and the excess skin is trimmed away and tightened. The belly button is usually repositioned during this surgery.
A tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility and typically takes around two hours to complete. It is considered an outpatient procedure. After surgery, patients will wear a compression garment and will need to rest for the first 48 hours. They should make a concerted effort to move around in order to help promote blood circulation, but should only attempt to initially stand at a 45-degree angle to protect the incision. Pain medication will be provided to help with postoperative pain. Clearance to resume exercise is usually given around 4 – 6 weeks.
“Dr. John Connors and his team are the best. He is such a perfectionist and they always take great care of their patients! 10/10 would recommend for anything and everything."
How Is Recovery Following Tummy Tuck Surgery?
A tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility and typically takes around two hours to complete. It is considered an outpatient procedure. After surgery, patients will wear a compression garment and will need to rest for the first 48 hours. They should make a concerted effort to move around in order to help promote blood circulation, but should only attempt to initially stand at a 45-degree angle to protect the incision. Pain medication will be provided to help with post-operative pain. Clearance to resume exercise is usually given around four to six weeks.
Complementary Procedures to Tummy Tuck Surgery
Abdominoplasty can be combined with another cosmetic procedure like breast augmentation or a breast lift for more comprehensive results. This combination surgery at Plastic Surgery Group of Atlanta is sometimes referred to as a “mommy makeover”. It is a popular way for women to manage a wider range of problem areas associated with pregnancy and breastfeeding.
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?
The cost of tummy tuck surgery can vary widely based on each patient’s unique needs and treatment plan. During a consultation, we can provide a personalized estimate after evaluating the extent of correction needed and discussing your specific cosmetic goals. Factors that commonly influence the total cost include:
- The type and complexity of the tummy tuck procedure performed
- Whether liposuction or additional body contouring procedures are combined with surgery
- Surgeon’s experience and qualifications
- Geographic location of the practice
- Facility and anesthesia fees
- Post-operative garments and follow-up care
Additional Tummy Tuck Frequently Asked Questions
What About Scarring After A Tummy Tuck?
Scarring is a normal and expected part of this procedure, but every effort is made to minimize scarring as much as possible. Incisions are also placed in areas that could be concealed by undergarments. For women who have had a previous C-section, the original C-section scar will be replaced with the tummy tuck incision. Most patients feel that the results of a tummy tuck far outweigh any scarring involved.
What If I Get Pregnant After A Tummy Tuck?
For optimal results, it is recommended that patients in Atlanta wait to have abdominoplasty until after all pregnancies have been completed. This is to ensure that any future weight gain that occurs with pregnancy does not compromise the results of the surgery.
Ready to take the next step toward a smoother, flatter abdomen? Contact our practice today to schedule a consultation and learn how tummy tuck surgery can be customized to help you achieve your aesthetic goals
