In the past, I have used frequently asked questions (or FAQs) as a simple way to provide my patients with a great starting point when considering a plastic surgery procedure like tummy tuck surgery. Every patient’s tummy tuck experience will be unique and there’s no way to answer every prospective question they might have in a setting like this. Still, I believe that answering the following common questions about tummy tuck surgery can provide an incredibly helpful baseline of information for patients to start their journey with.
Who Is Tummy Tuck Surgery Designed to Help?
I perform tummy tuck surgery to help people who experience an excess of loose, stretched skin (and fat) in their abdominal area. This often results from significant weight loss, as well as pregnancy, or naturally over time. Tummy tuck surgery is also performed to help repair damaged or separated abdominal muscles that create the appearance of a “belly pooch,” for those who experience this.
Why Does The Abdominal Skin Stretch In The First Place?
The cause of this issue can vary from patient-to-patient. It’s natural for the skin to lose some of its elasticity over time. Especially for people who have carried excess weight over the years, gone through pregnancy, had a lot of weight fluctuations, or had a prior abdominal surgery like a C-section.
How Is Tummy Tuck Surgery Performed?
During the procedure, I will make an incision in the lower abdomen, just above the pubic region. I will then remove enough loose skin (and fat, as needed) from the area to create a trimmer and more fit, but still balanced, body contour. If needed, I will also repair any muscle damage in the abdomen, as this is common. Some patients may only require a mini tummy tuck, which requires a smaller incision only a small amount of skin to be removed. I also perform a drainless tummy tuck with absorbable sutures, that can be preferable for some patients.
How Long Does Tummy Tuck Surgery Take?
The specific procedure time can vary, but a tummy tuck surgery normally takes between 2-3 hours. For example, if I am performing my signature technique, Scarpa Facsia tummy tuck, it may take closer to three hours. But each case truly does vary.
Does Tummy Tuck Surgery Have to be Performed in a Hospital?
No it doesn’t. Although there are exceptions, tummy tuck surgery is commonly performed as an outpatient procedure. That means that the patient is allowed to go home the same day as their surgery and no overnight hospital stay will be required. Some patients who undergo more extensive body contouring may benefit from an overnight stay, but this isn’t typically required.
What Can I Expect When Recovering After Tummy Tuck Surgery?
As with any other plastic surgery, tummy tuck patients will experience post-surgical swelling and bruising. Wearing a compression garment in the days following the procedure will help minimize these symptoms and alleviate potential discomfort. Patients may also feel a tightness or pulling sensation around the abdomen, but this is temporary. Results will improve for weeks following the procedure and the final results of a tummy tuck may be visible around 3 months after surgery (but this too can vary).
I have been using my Scarpa Fascia tummy tuck method for decades and am always amazed at how comprehensive and impactful the results can be for my patients. If you would like to learn more about tummy tuck surgery, or if you would like to schedule a complimentary plastic surgery consultation, please contact me, Dr. David Whiteman, at Southern Plastic Surgery today. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for additional plastic surgery tips, news, and so much more.
