| Dr. Janette Alexander 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 and how is it performed?
A. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is an operation to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen. Usually, an incision is made in the lower abdomen, similar to an extended C-section incision. The skin and fat are then separated from the muscles underneath all the way to the rib cage. An incision is made around the umbilicus (belly button) to release it. The muscles are tightened to flatten the abdomen and improve the waistline. The excess skin and fat are then trimmed, the umbilicus repositioned, and the skin sutured together to create a smooth, flat tummy.
Q. Are there risks and complications to a tummy tuck?
A. There are risks and possible complications to any operation, including a tummy tuck. In a healthy person, complications are unusual. The risks include bleeding, infection, fluid accumulation (seroma), blood clots, bad scars, delayed healing and undesirable outcome.
Q. What should one expect after the operation?
A. A tummy tuck is a major operation, and recovery is similar to other abdominal procedures such as c-section. There are usually drains in place for about a week to collect excess fluid. The abdomen feels very tight at first. One should expect to take about two weeks off from usual daily activities, including driving.
Q. How much does a tummy tuck cost?
A. Fees generally vary according to region of country and patient needs. The average surgeon’s fee for abdominoplasty in 2008 in the US was $5,167 according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons survey.
Q. How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?
A. Factors that can compromise the results of a tummy tuck in the long term include weight gain, weight loss, pregnancy, and loss of skin elasticity with aging. The results of a tummy tuck will be permanent with stable weight and body habitus.
Q. Will Smoking slow down the Healing Process?
A. Smoking will definitely interfere with the healing process. Smoking decreases circulation of the small blood vessels. This greatly increases the risks of infections, circulation to the skin, as well as blood clots and pneumonia. I require smokers to be smoke-free for at least 2 weeks before and after surgery.
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