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

Tummy tucks are performed on adults who are in good general health, have loose abdominal skin or stretched out abdominal muscles (i.e. from multiple pregnancies), and are close to their ideal body weight for their body type and size. We advise those who plan future pregnancies to postpone tummy tuck because the abdominal skin and muscles would be stretched out again with a pregnancy. Good candidates should have their weight relatively stable. If they are planning to lose more weight, then we recommend waiting.

Smokers have impaired healing and blood flow to skin. Those with heart disease or have extensive scarring above the navel also may have impaired skin circulation.


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

Liposuction addresses contour and areas of fatty deposition. It does not address excess or loose skin. Abdominoplasty addresses skin laxity, muscle laxity and improve contour.


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

If you have excess skin or muscle laxity, tummy tuck addresses these issues.


4. What are the disadvantages of a tummy tuck?

You are trading a low scar hidden in your underwear for an improved contour of your abdomen.


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

Otherwise known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin, and in some cases, tighten weakened abdominal muscles. A flatter abdomen and smoother profile can be achieved with this procedure. A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss and exercise. As stated earlier, liposuction addresses fatty tissue only.


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

There is no data in the literature comparing safety of liposuction versus abdominoplasty.


7. Are tummy tucks covered by insurance?

No. It is a cosmetic procedure.