| Dr. Michael F. Chiaramonte 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, known more commonly as a "tummy tuck," is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall.
Q. How is a tummy tuck performed?
A. Most commonly, I will make a long incision from hipbone to hipbone, just above the pubic area. A second incision is made to free the navel from surrounding tissue. With a mini tummy tuck, the incision is shorter and the navel is not moved, however, excess skin above the navel is not tightened.
The skin flap is then stretched down and the extra skin is removed. A new hole is cut for navel, which is then stitched in place. Finally, the incisions will be stitched, dressing will be applied, and a temporary tube may be inserted to drain excess fluid from the surgical site. This procedure does produce a permanent scar which, depending on the extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it, can extend from hip to hip.
Q. How long does tummy tuck surgery take?
A. Complete tummy tuck surgery usually takes two to five hours, depending on the extent of work required. Partial tummy tucks may take an hour or two.
Q. Are there risks and complications to a tummy tuck?
A. The main risks for a tummy tuck are bleeding & infection, but the procedure is performed in a sterile surgical center so the instance of these issues are extremely low.
Q. What should one expect after the operation?
A. It may take you weeks or months to feel like your old self again. If you start out in top physical condition with strong abdominal muscles, recovery from a tummy tuck will be much faster. Some people return to work after two weeks, while others take three or four weeks to rest and recuperate.
Exercise will help you heal better. Even people who have never exercised before should begin an exercise program to reduce swelling, lower the chance of blood clots, and tone muscles. Vigorous exercise, however, should be avoided until you can do it comfortably.
Q. How much does a tummy tuck cost?
A. Tummy Tucks can range anywhere from $6,200 – 10,950. Cost depends on the type of tummy tuck being performed and if any additional liposuction is needed.
Q. How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?
A. Forever. As long as you continue to take care of your body.
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