Get a contoured, firm, and slender abdomen
Restore a sagging, flabby abdomen with tummy tuck surgery. Advanced surgical techniques can correct weakened abdominal muscles, hanging stretch-marked skin, and persistent belly fat to produce a youthfully firm and tight waistline. If pregnancy, weight loss, and/or age have taken their toll on your body, you can reclaim your figure and your confidence with this incredible body contouring procedure.
Any healthy adult who is not currently pregnant or breastfeeding may be a candidate for abdominoplasty. Candidates hope to correct excess loose abdominal skin or stubborn belly fat, stretch marks and weakened stomach muscles that produce an ever-present tummy bulge. Candidates should also be at a stable body weight and should not be actively trying to lose weight.
Abdominoplasty typically includes several techniques. For loose or hanging abdominal skin, the surgeon can remove and pull the remaining skin tight across the abdomen. This will also help to eliminate some or all of the stretch marks. If there is an abdominal bulge or hernia defect, this can be repaired by re-approximating the abdominal musculature or placing a mesh to repair and recreate a tight abdominal wall. Lastly, the surgeon may perform liposuction to remove persistent localized belly fat which also helps create shape and contours the abdomen.
You should be in good health and at a stable body weight prior to undergoing this surgery. If you are receiving treatment for any chronic health conditions, you will need to request clearance from your primary care physician. You may also need to get an EKG and basic blood work to evaluate your health in anticipation of a successful procedure and healthy recovery. You will also need to plan for adequate time off work and arrange for assistance during your recovery, especially for activities such as driving, household responsibilities, and childcare.
Most patients can expect approximately 10 to 14 days of downtime after an abdominoplasty. In some cases, surgical drains may be placed for up to 2 weeks. Discomfort, which is common after surgery, can be managed with pain medications. Significant physical activities should be limited for a minimum of 4 to 6 weeks to avoid harming the incisions while they heal. Abdominal exercises and weightlifting should be postponed for 8 to 10 weeks after surgery. To accommodate these restrictions, you may need to limit your work responsibilities and seek assistance for basic household responsibilities and childcare.
The primary abdominoplasty incision leaves a horizontal scar in the lower abdomen between the hips, near the pubic line so that it can be hidden by most clothing. There may also be an incision hidden around the navel. Most abdominoplasty scars fade significantly over time.
Abdominoplasty does not affect your ability to get pregnant. However, pregnancy will most likely reverse the results of your tummy tuck, so it is strongly recommended that you wait to undergo abdominoplasty until after you have finished having children.
Women may get a tummy tuck as early six months after childbirth, provided they are feeling well and healthy, at a stable body weight, and no longer breastfeeding. Due to physical restrictions during tummy tuck recovery, we recommend you make alternate childcare arrangements for the first few weeks following your procedure.
Some people may benefit from a mini tummy tuck rather than a full abdominoplasty. The mini tummy tuck has a shorter incision and only addresses loose skin in the lower abdomen. If your stomach muscles do not need surgical correction and your trouble area is isolated below the navel, the mini tummy tuck could be a great option for you.
Tummy tuck surgery may be combined with breast surgery to yield more dramatic aesthetic results. Both procedures can be performed in the same sitting so that you only have to endure one surgery day and one surgical recovery period. These procedures are often combined into what is commonly called a Mommy Makeover, so named for its popularity among mothers seeking to reclaim their pre-baby bodies.
If you maintain a healthy lifestyle, stable body weight, and do not become pregnant afterward, your tummy tuck results could last for many years.
Stephenie Poris, MD sees patients at both the Orlando and Winter Park offices.
