1. How can one minimize the risk of complications associated with a tummy tuck?

A discussion of the risks associated with tummy tuck is an integral part of your consultation with your plastic surgeon. Don' t hesitate to ask questions and to have all your concerns addressed. Provide your surgeon with a complete medical history, medication list including diet and vitamin supplements and make your expectations for your procedure clear.


2. How does abdominal liposuction differ from a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the excision of excess abdomen skin and fat along with tightening of the abdominal muscles. Although liposuction is often done with a tummy tuck, liposuction alone is generally a less extensive procedure to remove only fat in patients with good skin quality and muscle tone.


3. What are the advantages of a tummy tuck (compared to liposuction)?

Abdominoplasty can be thought of as a procedure that picks up and goes beyond what liposuction only can accomplish. Advantages include the removal of extra skin and fat, which is not possible with liposuction alone resulting in the tightening of the abdominal skin as well as the tightening of the tummy muscles giving a flatter and firmer abdomen.


4. What are the disadvantages of a tummy tuck?

Abdominoplasty is generally a more involved and lengthy procedure. Post operative recovery is longer and because tissue is removed there will be a surgical line along the lower abdomen crease.


5. When is liposuction sufficient and when is a tummy tuck necessary?

See the answers given above.


6. If liposuction is safer, what are the reasons for doing a tummy tuck?

For patients with stretched, loose, or hanging skin and fat or patients with lax and protruding tummies( weak or overly stretched muscles) liposuction only will probably not result in a significant contour improvement . A tummy tuck would address these issues much better.


7. Are tummy tucks covered by insurance?

No. Abdominoplasty is a cosmetic procedure not covered by insurance.