1. Where are the incisions made for abdominoplasty?

They are low and in the area we call the "bikini line."


2. What kind of pain medication is used for this surgery?

Usually you are given an oral narcotic such as Vicodin. Often Valium is also prescribed as a muscle relaxant since your muscles are tightened with the procedure.


3. Is it advisable to do multiple procedures at one time?

Some surgeries can be combined but this should be decided by your surgeon to be sure it is safe. This is dependent on which surgeries are combined and the total time of duration of the surgery.


4. Is it better to lose weight before or after a tummy tuck?

This depends where you are to start. If you are within 30% of your ideal body weight, most of the time you can proceed with the surgery. In all body contouring surgeries, losing weight after will give you an even better result.


5. Will my abdominoplasty be paid for by my insurance?

This is possible but only in someone who has had massive weight loss (such as after a gastric bypass).


6. How soon will I be able to exercise after my abdominoplasty procedure?

Four to six weeks.


7. When will my stitches be removed after my abdominoplasty procedure?

In my abdominoplasties, all the sutures are dissolving and none need to be removed.