What is a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)?

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes excess skin and fat as well tightens separated abdominal muscles to create a flat and firm abdominal contour. The procedure may improve the appearance of stretch marks located below the belly button.  Excess skin and separated abdominal muscles can develop after significant weight loss in men or women or after pregnancy in women. A horizontal incision is placed just within or above the pubic area. The incision extends laterally toward the hip bones and the length depends largely on the amount of skin to be removed.

Who is a good candidate?

Good candidates are men or women who demonstrate:

• Excess or sagging skin of the abdomen
• Abdominal contour that protrudes and is out of proportion to the rest of your body
• Stable weight of excessive skin is due to massive weight loss
• Abdominal muscles that have been separated and weakened
• Excess fatty tissue that is located primarily in your abdomen
• Non-smokers
• Overall good health

What to expect during your consultation

Dr. Stephenson will evaluate your overall health and more specifically evaluate your skin quality, skin laxity, the amount of fat present and the weakness of the abdominal muscles to develop your individual plan. He will also review the risks of tummy tuck
surgery.  Dr. Stephenson encourages you to discuss any areas of your appearance that concern you as well what you hope to accomplish with surgery.  This will help Dr. Stephenson understand your goals/expectations and whether these expectations can be realistically achieved.

Abdominoplasty Recovery

Swelling and bruising are expected after abdominoplasty surgery.  The bruising and much of the swelling will disappear over several weeks although this will vary between patients. However, it may be months before all swelling subsides and you see the final result of your abdominoplasty. A compression garment or binder will be required to control swelling and to help the overlying tissues adapt to your new contour.  There will be some numbness over portions of the abdominal area, and this may persist for several months. You should be able to return to very modest duties in two weeks with complete recovery in about six weeks.

View 3D Animation For Tummy Tuck Surgery

Full Tummy Tuck

Mini Tummy Tuck

BODY CONTOURING SURGERY CREDENTIALS

Credentials matter. Dr. Stephenson has received extensive training in body contouring surgery including tummy tuck.  He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Dr. Stephenson will be happy to discuss how a tummy tuck may be beneficial to you.  To schedule a consultation with Dr. Stephenson at Signature Plastic Surgery, call (770) 466-4700.