A tummy tuck plastic surgery, or abdominoplasty, is a major cosmetic surgical procedure that cuts away loose skin around the abdominal area.
It also works to tighten weakened abdominal wall muscles. Over 80,000 men and women have had a tummy tuck plastic surgery done every year.
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck, or mini abdominoplasty, is a partial tummy tuck surgery that helps women with only a limited amount of sagging skin. This tummy tuck procedure does not involve tightening the abdominal wall muscles.
Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery
A tummy tuck offers more than just cosmetic improvements—it can also have functional health benefits.
Many patients who undergo abdominoplasty report improvements in posture and core strength due to the tightening of abdominal muscles.
This can relieve lower back pain and increase physical confidence. In addition, tummy tuck surgery often removes excess skin that may cause rashes or hygiene issues, particularly for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss.
When paired with a healthy lifestyle, a tummy tuck can dramatically improve body contour and self-esteem.
Tummy Tuck Cost
A full plastic surgery tummy tuck lift costs on average of about $3,000 to $8,500. A partial tummy tuck costs on average of around $2,650 to $6,000.
Tummy Plastic Surgery Procedure
In the initial consultation, tummy tuck surgeons assess the patient for their excess skin and fat on the abdomen.
The patient is also assessed on the basis of pregnancy, aging or significant weight loss that may have caused weakened abdominal muscles.
During the tummy tuck procedure, the tummy tuck surgeon makes an incision in the bikini area across the lower abdomen.
Excess skin and fat are suctioned out by way of liposuction, or tumescent liposuction, and the ab muscles are tightened. Some patients are good candidates for the endoscopic technique that the surgeon uses for minimal incisions.
Risks and Considerations Before Tummy Tuck Surgery
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with tummy tuck surgery, including infection, scarring, blood clots, and changes in skin sensation.
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in body contouring significantly reduces these risks.
Patients should follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery. Avoiding nicotine, staying hydrated, and planning for enough downtime can greatly impact the success of the surgery.
Tummy Tuck Recovery Timeline
Mild to moderate discomfort, swelling and bruising will occur during the first few days following the operation. No working or driving is allowed until at least ten days have passed.
No strenuous exercise is permitted until after a month. Any drainage tubes placed under the abdominal flap will be removed in the outpatient office after two weeks.
Other Helpful Information
Women should wait until after childbearing age to have the operation performed, as giving birth will undo all results.
Smoking increases complications of the surgery, so it is in the best interest of the patient to quit before considering this procedure.
An optimal contouring affect would be better gained if a woman considers having liposuction along the hip area (for pear-shaped women).
Finally, if there is not excessive fat and skin that needs to be removed around the abdominals, individuals should consider having a mini tummy tuck performed instead of a full tummy tuck.