| Dr. Baruch Jacobs is a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Here the Doctor has answered some of the common questions bizymoms visitors have about Tummy Tuck.
Q. What is a tummy tuck?
A. Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen; it also tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall. The procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding belly. It is very common to have the procedure performed after a woman has lost a significant amount of weight or after she has decided not to have any more children. Many times mothers also have a breast lift and/or augmentation at the same time to return the youthful appearance to their breasts.
Q. How is a tummy tuck performed?
A. A tummy tuck is performed through an incision at the pubic hairline so that it will always be concealed when wearing underwear or a bikini bottom. Through this incision, the weakened abdominal muscles are tightened and excess skin and fat are removed.
Q. How long does tummy tuck surgery take?
A. A tummy tuck takes between one to three hours depending upon how extensive the surgery that is needed.
Q. Are there risks and complications to a tummy tuck?
A. Although unlikely, there are risks with any surgery and these should be discussed with your doctor. They may include infection, scars, changes in skin sensation and others.
Q. What should one expect after the operation?
A. There may be some swelling and difficulty standing completely upright for a few days. You may also have a drain for a few days to remove any fluid that may accumulate after the surgery. Your tummy tuck will result in a flatter, firmer abdominal contour that is proportional to your body.
Q. How much does a tummy tuck cost?
A. A tummy tuck costs anywhere from $6,000 to $12,000; this will depend on how extensive is the surgery that will be required.
Q. How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?
A. The results of a tummy tuck should last a lifetime, especially if the patient leads a healthy lifestyle and does not get pregnant.
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