What Is a Tummy Tuck?
If you have reached your desired goal weight but are still struggling with achieving a smooth, toned midsection, it may be time to consider an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) at Fort Worth Plastic Surgery. Board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. Robert G. Anderson and Dr. Mark A. Daniels and board-eligible plastic surgeon Dr. Dustin Derrick are widely known as specialists in the delicate art of tummy tuck surgery.
What Is a Tummy Tuck Used to Correct?
A tummy tuck is performed to treat loose, stretched skin and stretch marks in the lower abdomen that cannot be addressed through diet and exercise alone. It is also used to tighten weakened or separated abdominal muscles to achieve a flatter abdomen and narrower waist. This procedure is particularly beneficial for those who have excess abdominal skin due to pregnancy, significant weight loss, or aging.
What Is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
Individuals who are in relatively good shape but still desire a flatter tummy may be good candidates for a mini tummy tuck. These patients have loose abdominal fascia, but the muscles aren’t stretched to the point where a full tummy tuck is necessary. A smaller incision is used, and the belly button is not affected.
Who is a Good Tummy Tuck Candidate?
Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck are men and women who have reached a stable weight but are frustrated by abdominal skin that has lost its elasticity. Patients must be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the results. Those planning future pregnancies or significant weight loss may be advised to postpone the surgery.
The Tummy Tuck Procedure
Your tummy tuck will be performed at our AAAASF-accredited surgical facility. You’ll first receive anesthesia for your comfort. The surgeon will then make an incision, typically from hip to hip, just above the pubic area.
The weakened abdominal muscles are then repaired and sutured, creating a firmer abdominal wall and narrower waistline. Liposuction is used to remove fat, and the belly button is usually repositioned to ensure natural placement. Excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is redraped over the newly tightened muscles. Once everything is complete, the incisions are closed with sutures. The average total procedure time is 3-4 hours.
During mini tummy tuck surgery, a smaller incision is made along the lower abdomen, excess fat is removed through liposuction, and the remaining skin is pulled tight. The belly button is not affected.
What Happens After Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Recovery from a tummy tuck requires patience and proper care. Initially, you’ll need to sleep with your upper body slightly elevated. Drainage tubes may be placed to prevent fluid buildup, and you’ll wear a compression garment to minimize swelling and support your abdomen.
Patients will need a follow-up appointment about a week after surgery. Most tummy tuck recipients can return to light activities after two weeks, though complete recovery takes four to six weeks. During this time, it’s important to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and any activities that could strain your abdominal muscles.
Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery
- Removal of excess skin and fat from the abdomen
- Tightening of weakened or separated abdominal muscles
- Reduction or elimination of stretch marks in the lower abdomen
- Improved abdominal tone and contour
- Enhanced self-confidence and body image
- Long-lasting results with proper diet and exercise
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?
The price of a tummy tuck varies depending on several factors, including the type of procedure (full or mini), the complexity of your case, and whether additional techniques like liposuction are performed simultaneously. We also offer financing to make the cost of tummy tuck surgery more accessible for eligible patients.
Tummy Tuck FAQs
Will a tummy tuck help me lose weight?
A tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure; it’s a body contouring treatment primarily designed to remove excess skin and tighten muscles. The amount of weight removed is typically minimal, usually consisting of just a few pounds of excess skin and fat.
Can I combine a tummy tuck with other procedures?
Many patients choose to combine their tummy tuck with other body contouring procedures, such as breast augmentation, additional liposuction, or a thigh lift, in what's commonly called a "mommy makeover." This approach allows for a single recovery period and can be more cost-effective than having multiple surgeries.
Tummy Tuck Before and After Photos
Learn More About Your Potential Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck is one of the most powerful methods for conquering the last mile of body toning after having children or losing weight. Schedule your consultation about the tummy tuck at Fort Worth Plastic Surgery today!