Is a Tummy Tuck Right for You?
Outpatient procedure results in firmer, flatter belly
Outpatient procedure results in firmer, flatter belly
Pregnancy, significant weight loss, or simple genetics can leave some people with excess fat and skin around the belly area. This can happen even if the rest of the body is slim and toned.
This stubborn abdominal bulge can be frustrating, especially when no amount of diet or exercise seems to reduce it.
Abdominoplasty — better known as a tummy tuck — is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess abdominal skin and fat. A tummy tuck may also rebuild muscles that have become weakened or separated due to pregnancy or trauma. The result is firmer, flatter and more contoured abdomen.
Salvatore Pacella, MD, division head of plastic surgery at Scripps Clinic Del Mar and Scripps Clinic Rancho Bernardo, answers a four frequently asked questions about tummy tuck surgery.
1. Who is a good candidate for a tummy tuck?
Having realistic expectations about what a tummy tuck can achieve is important. While the procedure can give a firmer and flatter appearance, it is not a substitute for weight loss or exercise. Generally, it does not improve the appearance of stretch marks, unless the marks are on the skin removed during surgery.
Weight changes can impact tummy tuck results. Although results usually last, major weight gain or loss can alter the abdomen's look. It’s best to wait until your weight is stable before losing weight or having a baby to maintain the surgery's effects.
“The ideal candidate has no major medical issues and is at a healthy, stable weight, but is unhappy with extra skin or fat around their abdomen,” says Dr. Pacella. “Many of our patients are women who have given birth and no matter what they do, they can’t get rid of that tummy bulge.”
2. How is tummy tuck procedure done?
There are different types of tummy tucks, and your surgeon will help you pick the best.
A full tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the abdominal muscles. It is performed under general anesthesia.
The surgeon makes an incision across the abdomen between the pubic bone and belly button to lift the skin and repair the abdominal wall muscles. The upper abdominal skin is then pulled down over the muscles and excess skin is removed. The surgeon stitches the two sections of skin together and creates a new opening for the belly button.
A mini tummy tuck targets the lower abdomen area and requires a smaller incision than a full tummy tuck. It may involve just skin removal and liposuction. The best candidates are patients who have tight muscles with minimal excess skin.
Both procedures are performed as outpatient surgeries. After surgery, most patients wear a compression bandage to minimize swelling and support their abdomen as it heals.
If needed, drainage tubes may be placed beneath the skin temporarily. After a week or so, the patient is able to see a flatter, firmer abdomen that complements their body shape. Any scarring tends to fade within a few months.
3. Are tummy tucks safe?
A tummy tuck is considered a very safe procedure. But like with any surgery, the procedure has risks that you will discuss with your surgeon before taking the next step. Bleeding, infection and complications from anesthesia are some of the potential risks.
4. How do I find a good plastic surgeon?
If you're thinking about a tummy tuck, find a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in this procedure. This ensures you get the best care, Dr. Pacella says.
“You want someone you trust and feel confident with, and who will be honest with you about what to expect,” he says.
Bring a list of questions and concerns to your consultation and be open about what you hope to achieve.
A tummy tuck is an elective surgery that may not be covered by insurance. Discuss costs beforehand as they can vary based on the surgery's extent, surgeon, and location.
Plastic surgery at Scripps
Deciding on cosmetic surgery is a personal choice that only you can make. It's important to talk to your plastic surgeon about any specific procedure before making a decision.
At Scripps, plastic surgeons are board-certified experts with extensive experience. They use various techniques, such as tummy tucks, liposuction, and skin reduction to improve your body shape. They will help you decide if a procedure is right for you. They will also explain the expected results, benefits and risks.