Have you been exercising religiously and following a strict diet, but your tummy refuses to tone down? If this is a problem that you’ve been dealing with for a while, it may be time for you to get a tummy tuck.

A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a procedure designed to remove the excess fat and skin in your abdominal region. It also tightens the weakened and separated muscles that reside in the abdominal region. The result is a slimmer and firmer midsection. Having a flat and well-toned abdomen will improve the fit and look of your clothes, giving you a confidence boost like no other.

Individuals who are within a healthy weight range but struggle with a protruding belly or one that sags loosely on their body often undergo the procedure to improve their midsection. Aging, genetics, and weight fluctuations are just a few of the factors that contributes to the development of saggy skin and excess fatty deposits in the midsection.

Ideal Candidates for the Tummy Tuck Surgery

The best candidates for the tummy tuck surgery are those who are in good general health, within their ideal weight range, and have realistic expectations from the surgery. You will also need to refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol in the weeks leading up to the surgery and some time after.

It is important to keep in mind that a tummy tuck surgery is no replacement for natural weight loss. It is primarily designed to contour the body and any weight lost after the procedure is simply due to the removal of excess fat and skin.

The procedure is therefore not recommended for those looking to lose weight. It cannot remove stretch marks unless the marks happen to fall on the are of excess skin that will be excised during the procedure.

Types of Tummy Tuck Surgery Techniques

Tummy Tuck surgeries come tailored to individual concerns. A cosmetic surgeon will be able to tell exactly which type of tummy tuck will achieve the outcome you want with minimal post-surgical marks and seemingly natural results.

Mini Tummy Tuck – The mini tummy tuck is a good option for those looking to tighten their lower belly. A single incision is made just above the pubic mound through which the surgeon tightens loose muscles and removes excess skin. A mini tummy tuck is a short procedure with a quick recovery that tones the lower abdomen.

Classic Tummy Tuck – The classic or full tummy tuck addresses the entire abdominal area. A horizontal or U-shaped incision is made above the pubic mound. A second incision may be made along the navel to tackle excess skin above the navel. The procedure results in a flatter abdomen with a visible reduction in stretch marks.

Extended Tummy Tuck – This procedure removes extra skin from the front and flanks of the abdomen. It also tightens the abdominal wall.

Recovery & Results

Most tummy tucks are outpatient procedures. In some cases, the plastic surgeon who performs the procedure may require you to stay overnight at the facility to monitor your initial recovery. Since a tummy tuck involves operating on the abdominal muscles, it takes longer than other plastic surgery procedures to heal.

Drains may be placed upon the incisions to drain out fluids after the surgery. The incisions are strategically placed to limit the visibility of post-surgical marks. The results of the tummy tuck should be visible in a week or two after the swelling has gone down. Your abdomen will be contoured into a more defined profile that you will feel proud to show off.

Contact Our Office

If you desire the abdominal profile you have always dreamed of, then a tummy tuck can help you get there. Contact our office to schedule an appointment with skilled plastic surgeon Dr. James Hardy where you can learn more about the surgery in a safe and comfortable environment.