Abdominoplasty

Following pregnancy or weight loss, many individuals experience excess sagging skin and fat deposits on the abdomen. An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, can help to remove this excess skin and fat, as well as tighten weakened abdominal muscles for an improved abdominal contour.

What is an Abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty (or tummy tuck) removes excess fat and skin from the abdomen and around the hips to improve the look and feel of the waistline. Many different life factors, including pregnancy and extreme weight fluctuations, can cause the abdominal walls to weaken and can cause excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen. A tummy tuck can tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall and reduce a bulging abdomen for a slimmer body silhouette and firmer midsection.

Following pregnancy or weight loss, many individuals experience excess sagging skin and fat deposits on the abdomen. An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, can help to remove this excess skin and fat, as well as tighten weakened abdominal muscles for an improved abdominal contour.

Candidates for Abdominoplasty

Ideal candidates for tummy tuck surgery are individuals who are in good overall health and maintain a stable weight, but are bothered by excess skin and fat in the abdominal area that doesn’t respond to a healthy diet or regular exercise. Often, these patients have experienced pregnancy, substantial or massive weight loss, or significant weight gain, which can cause the abdominal wall to stretch and the muscles to separate.

A tummy tuck is especially beneficial for those with loose skin, separated abdominal muscles, or hanging skin around the lower abdomen. However, if you are planning substantial weight loss or future pregnancies, it may be best to delay surgery until after these events, as they can compromise results.

Types of Abdominoplasty

Three main types of tummy tuck incisions can be performed. A consultation with Dr. Golosow at Associates in Cosmetic Surgery is always the best way to find out which procedure may be best for you:

Full Tummy Tuck

A traditional full abdominoplasty or tummy tuck usually requires 2-3 hours to perform. An incision is made above the pubic region and extends from hip to hip. Another incision is made around the umbilicus (belly button). The skin and fat are lifted off the abdominal wall and pulled taut over the incision site. Any excess fatty tissue or skin is removed and often the abdominal muscles are tightened.

Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery

A mini tummy tuck is often done for individuals with minimal excess skin and fat, and usually requires 1-2 hours to perform. The incision for this may be shorter than the full abdominoplasty, although it is not able to remove as much loose skin from the region as a full procedure would be able to.

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck is ideal for individuals with excess skin and fat not only in the abdominal area but also along the flanks or lower back. This surgical procedure is commonly performed after massive weight loss or weight reduction surgeries, where skin laxity is more extensive. Unlike a typical tummy tuck, an extended tummy tuck includes a longer incision that stretches beyond the hips to allow for the removal of extra skin around the sides of the torso.

Before Your Tummy Tuck Procedure

Before surgery, all patients will have a thorough consultation with Dr. Golosow to discuss surgical techniques, goals, and potential risks. You’ll be asked to share your medical history, any medications or supplements you take, and whether you have any conditions that may affect wound healing or increase the risk of blood clots.

To prepare for surgery, you may need to stop smoking, adjust current medications, and maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a stable weight and a nutritious diet. It’s also essential to plan for your recovery ahead of time, including arranging for time off work, help at home, and comfortable clothing that won’t interfere with the incision site.

Your Tummy Tuck Procedure

Tummy tuck surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. Dr. Golosow will perform an incision through which she can remove excess skin and fat and tighten loose muscles of the abdominal wall. The goal of the surgery is to remove excess skin and fat, repair and tighten separated abdominal muscles, and create a smoother, flatter abdominal contour.

Once the excess skin and fatty tissue are removed, the remaining skin is repositioned for a more toned appearance. The belly button may be repositioned to match the new shape of the abdomen, depending on the extent of correction. To support healing and reduce fluid buildup, drainage tubes are often placed temporarily near the incision site.

Recovering After Tummy Tuck Surgery

Following a tummy tuck procedure, you will be placed in bandages and a compression garment to control swelling. This garment should be worn for several weeks during recovery. Any discomfort can be controlled with pain medication. Patients should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks after surgery. Those who undergo a traditional tummy tuck will have a longer recovery period and slightly larger or more visible tummy tuck scar than those who underwent a mini tummy tuck.

If you have been considering cosmetic surgery near Ft. Myers, please contact Associates in Cosmetic Surgery to schedule a consultation with Dr. Golosow.

Frequently Asked Question About Tummy Tucks

Learn More About Tummy Tuck Surgery

If you’ve been struggling with excess skin and fat in the stomach area, or want to tighten loose muscles after pregnancy or significant weight loss, a tummy tuck could be the right solution. Dr. Lorraine Golosow has extensive experience performing various types of abdominoplasty, and she will help you choose the most effective tummy tuck procedure for your goals, anatomy, and lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward a smoother, firmer abdominal contour.