What is a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?
A Tummy Tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a procedure performed by Williamsburg Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Guarnieri. The Tummy Tuck procedure helps flatten the abdomen by removing excess fat and skin while tightening muscles.
The Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Procedure
The Tummy Tuck procedure takes approximately 2 to 5 hours to perform. The patient will then undergo general anesthesia for the surgery. Dr. Guarnieri will place two incisions: one from hipbone to hipbone close to the pubic area, and another around the navel.
Dr. Guarnieri separates the skin from the abdominal muscles, which he then pulls together and stitched in place. This results in a firmer abdomen and a narrower waist. As the skin flap gets stretched down over the newly tightened muscles, excess skin is removed, and the navel is reattached where it looks natural. Once the incisions are closed, sterile surgical dressings are applied over the sutured areas.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
The best candidates are in good physical condition, with pockets of fat or loose skin that have not responded well to diet and exercise. A Tummy Tuck can be appropriate for slightly obese people whose skin has lost some of its elasticity or women with skin and muscles stretched from pregnancy. Anyone planning on losing a significant amount of weight, and women planning on having (more) children, should wait before undergoing abdominoplasty.
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Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Recovery Process
After the tummy tuck surgery, it may be necessary to use a temporary tube drain excess fluid from the surgical site. Therefore, an overnight hospital stay may be necessary. Recovery time ranges from 2 weeks to 2 months. A scar will be present across the lower abdomen from hip to hip. Although you will have scarring, it will not be visible since it’s below the bikini area. Finally, patients should maintain a healthy diet and perform a regular exercise regimen for long-lasting results.
Risks Associated with the Abdominoplasty Procedure
In addition to the usual risks associated with surgery and anesthesia, risks associated with abdominoplasty include the following:
- Asymmetry
- Poor aesthetic result
- Unsightly scarring
- Loose skin
- Numbness in skin sensation
- Need for revisional surgery
Patients who have had previous abdominal surgery may find that their old scars look more raised, have stretched or are more noticeable in general. Undergoing a scar revision may minimize their prominence.
Schedule Your Consultation Today!
If you would like to learn more about tummy tuck surgery, call (757) 345-2275 to schedule a consultation at our office in Williamsburg, VA. You can also go to our contact page and fill out the appointment request form, and our staff will help you set up your meeting with Dr. Guarnieri. Our practice looks forward to serving you!