How much does a tummy tuck cost?

The cost varies depending on the surgeon's fees and the operating room costs. However, typically the cost ranges from $5500 to $7000.

Will a person have a scar after the tummy tuck?

The scar is located relatively low and is hidden within a crease line. The length of the scar depends on how much tissue needs to be removed.

Are there risks and complications to a tummy tuck?

The risks are mainly with healing, and some patients might have delayed healing and unfavorable scarring. If scars are unfavorable a minor scar revision could correct this. Infection is uncommon.

How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?

Results should be permanent as long as the patient maintains a stable weight.

Is anesthesia used during the tummy tuck procedure?

General anesthesia is required for a full abdominoplasty where skin and fat is removed from the lower abdomen, the muscles are tightened, the skin is then closed tightly bringing out the belly button and the hips are liposuctioned. Lesser procedures such as a mini tummy tuck could be done under local anesthesia with sedation and involves removing the excess skin and fat from the belly without moving the belly button and doing minimal liposuction.

What are the benefits of a tummy tuck?

An abdominoplasty will remove the excess skin and fatty tissue from the lower abdomen and recontour the waist line. Tightening of the muscles on the inside will also give better contour and fix the abdominal buldge, that is present following childbirth and with age. Liposuction is often added to an abdominoplasty especially on the hips to further improve contour.

How long does tummy tuck surgery take?

The length of surgery depends on the size of the patient, but should take around 1.5 hours to 2.5 hours.

Who is an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck?

An ideal candidate is someone who is otherwise healthy (a non smoker) and relatively stable at their weight. Patients without a significant amount of intra-abdominal fat, who really just have the excess skin and fat localized in the lower abdomen and around the belly button area excellent candidates. Although patients who are overweight could benefit from an abdominoplasty, the cosmetic results are better if they are able to lose weight first.