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Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)


Tummy tuck surgery

Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, removes excess fat and skin and, in most cases, restores weakened or separated muscles creating an abdominal profile that is smoother and firmer.

A flat and well-toned abdomen is something many of us strive for through exercise and weight control. Sometimes these methods cannot achieve our goals.

Even individuals of otherwise normal body weight and proportion can develop an abdomen that protrudes or is loose and sagging. The most common causes of this include:

  • Aging

  • Heredity

  • Pregnancy

  • Prior surgery

  • Significant fluctuations in weight

What tummy tuck surgery can't do

A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss or an appropriate exercise program.

Although the results of a tummy tuck are technically permanent, the positive outcome can be greatly diminished by significant fluctuations in your weight. For this reason, individuals who are planning substantial weight loss or women who may be considering future pregnancies would be advised to postpone a tummy tuck.

A tummy tuck cannot correct stretch marks, although these may be removed or somewhat improved if they are located on the areas of excess skin that will be excised.


Anesthesia

The type of anesthesia that is used for tummy tuck depends on the individual patient. However, tummy tucks can be done with local anesthesia and sedation or general anesthesia.


Cost

The total cost of a tummy tuck depends on the individual patient, but can range from $5500 to $7500.


Recovery

During your tummy tuck recovery, dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions, and you may be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to minimize swelling and support your abdomen as it heals following surgery.

Small, thin tubes with drains may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect.

You will be given specific instructions that may include:

  • How to care for the surgical site and drains

  • Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the potential for infection

  • Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health

  • When to follow up with Dr. Rhee

Be sure to ask your tummy tuck surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period:

  • Where will I be taken after my surgery is complete?

  • What medication will I be given or prescribed after surgery?

  • Will I have dressings/bandages after surgery? When will they be removed?

  • When will the stitches be removed?

  • How will I bathe?

  • How long will I wear the pressure garment?

  • When can I resume normal activity and exercise?

  • When do I return for follow-up care?


Risks

The decision to have plastic surgery is extremely personal, and you’ll have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications of tummy tuck surgery are acceptable.

You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure and any risks.

Tummy tuck risks include:

  • Anesthesia risks

  • Bleeding

  • Infection

  • Fluid accumulation (seroma)

  • Poor wound healing

  • Skin loss

  • Numbness or other changes in skin sensation

  • Skin discoloration and/or prolonged swelling

  • Unfavorable scarring

  • Recurrent looseness of skin

  • Fatty tissue found deep in the skin might die (fat necrosis)

  • Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications

  • Asymmetry

  • Suboptimal aesthetic result

  • Possibility of revisional surgery

  • Persistent pain

These risks and others will be fully discussed prior to your consent. It’s important that you address all your questions directly with Dr. Rhee.