How much does a tummy tuck cost?

The costs for cosmetic surgery varies widely depending on the skill and reputation of the surgeon,complexity of the specific patient and sometimes geographic location. In New England the average case is probably between $5,000-10,000. If the patient also has liposuction or a mommy makeover where breast work is done at the same time the costs obviously go up.

Will a person have a scar after the tummy tuck?

Yes, all surgery creates scars. In the case of tummy tucks, the plastic surgeon plans their location, so they are hidden as well as possible. A skilled plastic surgeon attempts to handle the tissues delicately and perform a careful, precise repair which commonly, but not in all cases, helps to optimize scar appearance.The physician also should explain the proper postop scar care, so the patient can help with to encourage scar fadding.

Is anesthesia used during the tummy tuck procedure?

Yes, in most cases a general anesthesia is chosen. In certain cases, with skill and creativity a type of local, or nerve block, anesthesia with IV sedation can be used.

How is a tummy tuck performed?

A tummy tuck usually involves removing excess, unsightly skin and fat from the abdomen via a scar hidden low under the underwear or bathing suit line and sometimes a small scar around the belly button. In most cases, internal muscle tightening stitches are also used to further slim the waistline.

Are there risks and complications to a tummy tuck?

As with any surgery, there are risks to an abdominoplasty. Bleeding, infection, seroma, bad scars would be the most frequent. There are a number of other potential risks which should be reviewed in detail during your consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon.

How long does tummy tuck surgery take?

The length of the procedure depends on the skill and speed of the surgeon and the complexity of the individual patient's anatomy. For example a tummy tuck on a young healthy mother who is 135 pounds and has loose unsightly skin after a couple of pregnancies is a lot quickly, than a 200 pound individual whose apron of skin and fat wraps half way around to the back.Typical cases are 1-3 hours.