Albuquerque Tummy Tuck Surgery
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Neil T. Chen, MD
505-842-8889
3830 Masthead Street, Albuquerque, NM 87109
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An Interview With Dr. Chen, A Qualified Plastic Surgeon In Albuquerque

Are there risks and complications to a tummy tuck?



You should be aware that there will be long scar extending from one hip to the other and the appearance of scar can vary depending on the person. In general, however, the scar is usually quite acceptable and low on the abdominal wall. Bleeding and infection can occur with any operation but are not common. Finally more serious but infrequent complication such as blood clots of legs and pulmonary embolus can occur, too.

Who is an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck?



The ideal candidate is someone who has laxity of skin and muscle layers and is interested in improving her abdominal contour. While we can remove some extra fat at the abdomen, excessive fat will limit the improvement of the procedure.

How is a tummy tuck performed?



It usually involves a low incision at the abdomen and a small incision around the belly button. The skin is lifted up to the upper abdomen and the excess skin and fat are removed. A new small incision is made and the original belly button is brought out. The muscle layer is also tightened if indicated. The incision is then closed using plastic surgical closure technique. The surgery usually takes about 2.5 hours under general anesthesia.

Will a person have a scar after the tummy tuck?



There will be a long scar at the lower abdomen and a small scar around the belly button. It will generally lighten in color with time and become less obvious.

How much does a tummy tuck cost?



The surgical fee can vary from $4000 to $7000 depending on where you live. There is also anesthesia and operation room fees in addition.

What is a tummy tuck?



Tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is the procedure that reshape the abdomen surgically. This usually involve removal of excess skin and fat. It also frequently involves tightening the abdominal muscles to achieve a flatter abdominal contour.

What are the benefits of a tummy tuck?



For someone with skin and fat excess, abdominoplasty is preferable to liposuction of the abdomen alone, which tends to leave excess loose skin at the abdomen. Old scars and stretch marks can be removed with abdominoplasty as well.