What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is a carefully planned surgical intervention that targets loose, sagging skin and weakened abdominal muscles. By removing excess skin and fat and reinforcing the underlying muscle structure, the procedure helps create a more toned and aesthetically balanced abdominal profile. This procedure is tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy and goals.
Expert Video Insights
Watch Dr. Shikha talk about specific details, recovery information, and patient experiences through these informative videos
Types of Tummy Tuck Procedures
Our practice offers a range of tummy tuck techniques to suit different needs and cosmetic goals:
- Full Tummy Tuck: Addresses both the upper and lower abdominal areas, offering comprehensive contouring.
- Mini Tummy Tuck: Focuses on the lower abdomen with a shorter incision and a potentially quicker recovery.
- Extended Tummy Tuck: Includes the flanks for a more comprehensive reshaping of the midsection.
- Circumferential Tummy Tuck: Targets the abdomen, flanks, and lower back, ideal for patients with significant skin laxity.
The Tummy Tuck Procedure
During a tummy tuck, a horizontal incision is made in a discreet location along the lower abdomen, typically from hip to hip, ensuring the scar can be easily concealed. The surgeon carefully repairs weakened abdominal muscles, removes excess fat, and trims surplus skin to achieve a smoother profile. Performed under general anesthesia, the procedure usually takes between 2 to 4 hours, depending on its complexity.
Recovery and Expected Results
Recovery time can vary, but most patients are able to resume light daily activities within 2 to 4 weeks. Full recovery, with gradual improvement of the final contour, generally takes 3 to 6 months. A compression garment is often recommended for 4 to 6 weeks to help minimize swelling and support the healing process. With a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, the enhanced abdominal contour can be maintained over the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck are individuals in good overall health with excess abdominal skin or fat that has not responded to diet and exercise. Patients should have a stable weight, be non-smokers, and maintain realistic expectations about the results. Women planning future pregnancies are usually advised to postpone the procedure.
Recovery varies by individual. Most patients can return to light activities within two weeks and resume normal activities within 4 to 6 weeks. Strenuous exercise is typically avoided for 6 to 8 weeks, and a compression garment is recommended for 4 to 6 weeks to support healing.
A tummy tuck removes the excess skin that may contain stretch marks, usually in the lower abdominal area. However, it does not address stretch marks on untreated areas. During your consultation, your surgeon will explain which improvements may be achievable based on your unique situation.
Yes, many patients choose to combine a tummy tuck with additional procedures such as liposuction or other body contouring surgeries to address multiple areas in one operation. Your surgeon will work with you to develop a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your overall goals and health status.
A scar is an inherent part of the tummy tuck procedure. The incision is strategically placed low on the abdomen to be easily concealed by clothing. Over time, the scar typically fades in appearance. Following the recommended post-operative scar care can further help to minimize its visibility.