Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck Surgery)
What Is Abdominoplasty?
Commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fatty tissue from the middle and lower abdomen, resulting in a more contoured appearance. This involves the tightening of abdominal muscles for a smoother contour.
Tummy tucks are conducted in surgical operating rooms under general anesthesia or deep sedation. A surgeon creates an incision in the lower abdomen, elevates the abdominal skin, tightens the rectus muscles, and removes surplus skin to achieve a flatter abdominal profile. Some individuals opt to combine tummy tucks with liposuction for enhanced results.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate?
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for this procedure. Those significantly overweight are generally advised to wait until they've lost weight and maintained it for a period.
At Cape Cod Plastic Surgery, we prioritize your safety, comfort, and satisfaction throughout your transformation. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Fater, possesses extensive expertise and utilizes advanced techniques to perform tummy tuck procedures. This all begins with a thorough consultation to understand your goals, medical history, and expectations. This enables our team to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your desired outcomes.
What are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck?
- Improved Abdominal Contours: Achieve a flatter, more contoured abdomen by removing excess skin and fat.
- Enhanced Muscle Tone: Tighten weakened or separated abdominal muscles for a firmer core.
- Boost in Confidence: Experience a renewed sense of self-assurance with a more sculpted silhouette.
- Clothing Fit: Enjoy the ability to fit better in clothing and feel more comfortable in your own skin.
What to Expect After the Procedure?
Following a tummy tuck, patients typically spend one night in the hospital. In some cases, individuals undergoing mini abdominoplasty may return home after the procedure. After returning home, it's recommended to rest in a reclined position ('lawn chair') for 24-48 hours. Subsequently, sitting and walking are manageable, but standing upright or lying flat may be uncomfortable for 1 to 2 weeks.
During the initial 72 hours, it's advisable to consume ample fluids, preferably juice or electrolyte beverages. Dr. Fater recommends wearing a compression garment for the initial five days post-surgery.
Initially, Dr. Fater prescribes narcotics, transitioning to anti-inflammatories like Advil or Aleve at around 3-4 days. By the third week, many patients feel ready to gradually increase their activity levels.
