| Dr. Ben Kirbo 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 very common procedure I perform especially in post partum women. A tummy tuck is intended to rejuvenate the tummy to a more youthful appearance. It generally involves removal of excess skin and fat as well as tightening the underlying abdominal muscles.
Q. What are the benefits of a tummy tuck?
A. Almost anyone can be a candidate for tummy tuck as long as their health will permit. Women who a very tiny but suffer from excess skin, stretch marks, and poochy stomach as well as women who may be much larger with significant excess skin may equally benefit from a tummy tuck.
Q. How long does tummy tuck surgery take?
A. Depending on the size of the patient and the technique we use (standard tummy tuck, extended tummy tuck) the procedure may take from 1/1/2 hours to 4 hours.
Q. Are there risks and complications to tummy tuck?
A. The risk and complications of a tummy tuck are minimal. The patient must accept a scar. We have found however, if we can accomplish the contour the patient desires, the scar is of little consequence. Incision healing issues can be seen but are rare especially if the patient does not smoke. Down time is not a complication but is a concern for many patients. Most patients will not return to work for 10 days to 2 weeks. Other complications such as blood clots can happen but are extremely rare.
Q. How much does a tummy tuck cost?
A. Total cost for a tummy tuck will vary depending on location and physician but generally be between 5,000 and 10,000 dollars. This should include the surgeon’s fee as well as the anesthesia and facility fee.
Q. How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?
A. Tummy tucks usually provide long term results. Most patients will never return to the pre tummy tuck appearance, especially if they maintain their weight.
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