People who have lost a lot of weight or have been pregnant can have excess or sagging skin of their abdomen. Over time, even people at their normal weight can develop sagging skin. Diet and exercise often help with extra fat, but that extra “roll” often just will not go away! An abdominoplasty or tummy tuck is a good option for many with this problem! To learn more or to determine whether you are a candidate, dial (203) 453-6635 today to schedule your personalized consultation with our talented plastic surgeon Dr. Gary J. Price!
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, improving the patient’s abdomen and figure. (Often, muscles are tightened as well.) However, it is important to note that a tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss.
Who are the Ideal Candidates for a Tummy Tuck?
If the appearance of bulges or loose skin in your abdominal area bothers you, then abdominoplasty may be right for you. A good candidate is someone who is in good overall health, understands that a tummy tuck is not a weight loss substitute, and is prepared to exercise and follow a healthy diet after surgery in order to maintain the results.
Patient Testimonial
“You and your staff deserve more than 5 stars! Best decision I made, I was so comfortable with you and your staff thank you I am very thankful I choose your practice!”
Full Tummy Tuck
In a full tummy tuck, skin and muscle from the chest region to the pubic area are tightened. First, a long incision is made across the lower abdomen. A second incision is made around the belly button. The belly button is then repositioned after the skin and muscles are tightened.
A full tummy tuck is most effective for women who have been through pregnancy or have experienced large weight loss. Recovery from a full tummy tuck usually takes two to four weeks.
Mini Tummy Tuck
The skin of the lower abdomen is tightened in a mini tummy tuck. Relocation of the belly button is not required in this procedure. The scar is shorter and recovery is quicker than with a full tummy tuck. As with a full abdominoplasty, liposuction is often done in conjunction with a mini tummy tuck in order to add to further enhance the result.
Endoscopic-Assisted Tummy Tuck
An endoscopic-assisted tummy tuck is a minimally-invasive procedure that Dr. Price performs using an endoscope, a tiny camera that is inserted through small incisions. This procedure involves minimal scarring and a shorter recovery period. It is perfect for individuals who have excess fat in the abdomen and weak lower abdominal muscles, yet still, have fairly tight abdominal skin.
Risks of Tummy Tuck Surgery
The decision to have a tummy tuck should only be made after careful evaluation of your expectations and goals following your consultation. Like any other procedure, there are risks involved in a tummy tuck, including bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, unfavorable scarring, numbness, skin discoloration, prolonged swelling, fluid accumulation, and the possibility of revision surgery.
What to Expect During the Recovery Process
Full tummy tuck patients will usually need ten days to two full weeks off from work. If muscle tightening has been done, then exercise, lifting, and pushing are limited for six full weeks. Tummy tuck patients usually need pain medication for several days at a minimum, and sometimes as long as two weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tummy Tucks
Does A Tummy Tuck Hurt?
Everyone’s pain tolerance is different; the amount of pain with an abdominoplasty is, therefore, variable. Some people report a moderate amount of discomfort and some say it is intense. But, because a tummy tuck is major surgery, there will be some pain. Dr. Price wants you to have a successful experience during and after surgery. At your initial consultation, remember to discuss your pain concerns with Dr. Price as well as any other medications you are taking.
At What Age Can a Tummy Tuck Be Performed?
There is no normal age or time in one’s life to have an abdominoplasty. Many are performed in a patient’s 20s and as late as their 60s. It is most often done after a woman has given birth and does not plan to have more children, or after someone has lost all the weight that he or she intends to lose. Most cosmetic procedures are not recommended for those under the age of 18. The overall health of the patient is of utmost concern. All patients should undergo a physical exam, a set of lab test and an EKG if they are over the age of 45.
Will a Tummy Tuck Help My Stretch Marks?
A tummy tuck cannot correct stretch marks, but they may be improved or removed if they are located on the areas of excess skin that will be removed – the “zone of resection.” Dr. Price will draw an estimated zone of resection so that you will have an idea of how many of your stretch marks will remain after your procedure.
Where Is The Surgery Performed?
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Gary Price performs tummy tucks with intravenous sedation, removing the need for general anesthesia and hospitalization. Dr. Price performs the surgery in his private, fully-licensed operating room.
*How Long Do the Results Last?
The results can last for many years. If you have no large weight gain or pregnancies after your tummy tuck, then the positive changes from your tummy tuck will be relatively permanent. There will be some relaxation of the tissues with age, but not to the extent prior to your surgery.
Can I Combine Tummy Tuck with Other Procedures?
It is common and possible to combine multiple plastic surgery procedures. However, it depends on the patient and the procedures. Some considerations are the length of the surgery and the patient’s overall health. In some cases, it’s possible to combine a tummy tuck, liposuction, and breast augmentation without any problems. These particular procedures are often combined and are given the nickname “Mommy Makeover.”
Patient Testimonial
“I had a tummy tuck with Dr. Price and since then I have gone back to him for a breast augmentation as well. I love him as a surgeon. He is nice, kind and a great listener . The same goes for everybody in the office as well . I highly recommend him to every lady who would like to be beautified.“
Speak With Dr. Price For A Tummy Tuck In New Haven!
If you are interested in a tummy tuck and would like to see if you are a good candidate, contact our office at (203) 453-6635 to schedule a consultation with Connecticut Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Gary Price. Or, you can fill out our contact form to book your one-on-one appointment at our New Haven office!
*Individual results may vary on a case by case basis to the end of the page.
