1. What is a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a major surgical procedure that tightens the skin and underlying fascia (the layer covering the muscles) of the belly. Usually the excess skin and loose tissue is eliminated, often along with stretch marks and previous scars from other surgeries. Frequently after childbirth or weight loss, the abdominal muscles (rectus abdominus) are separated. If this is the case, sutures are used to repair the separation, creating a sort of internal corset. The incisions are usually placed below the bikini line from hip to hip, and also around the belly button. Typically, all of the skin between the top of your belly button down to your pubic area is removed. Many women find that even with rigorous diet and exercise, they cannot get rid of the extra skin and often the protrusion of the stomach after having children or losing weight. Depending on your body shape, you may also require liposuction to achieve the optimum results. Either way, the results are dramatic!


2. What is a mini tummy tuck?

This procedure is very similar to the full tummy tuck, but only the lower part of the abdomen is tightened. The bikini line scar is usually slightly shorter, and there is no scar around the belly button. Normally, in a full tummy-tuck, all of the skin from just above the belly button to the groin hairline is removed. In mini tummy-tuck, about half of that skin is removed. This is perfect for those who have a small amount of excess skin.


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

The risks can be minimized by maintaining a healthy lifestyle in terms of diet and exercise. If you have any pre-existing medical problems, you should discuss them with Dr. Heistein to see if they require additional attention before surgery.


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

Liposuction removes unwanted fat, but does not address any excess skin. If there is not too much excess skin, then liposuction may be a great way to contour your abdomen. However, if skin needs to be removed, a tummy tuck may provide a better result. In this situation, liposuction is frequently used in conjunction with a tummy tuck to further enhance your result.

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

A tummy tuck has the advantage of being able to remove not only unwanted fat, but also excess skin. Liposuction is not able to remove the skin.


6. What are the disadvantages of a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck has the disadvantage of requiring more recovery time than liposuction.


7. Are tummy tucks covered by insurance?

Tummy tucks are almost never covered by insurance except in extreme circumstances. Dr. Heistein offers several different financing options to assist you in this regard.