1. How should I prepare for abdominoplasty surgery?

Timing is everything when it comes to planning abdominoplasty surgery. I recommend making sure that patients are at or near a weight that is comfortable for them in order to assure the best results possible. The next step is to ensure a responsible caretaker will be available to help out with post-op care and family obligations for the first 7-10 days. Some patients prefer to have body contouring surgery in the colder winter months to avoid being too hot in a compression garment during the summer months.


2. What happens during the tummy tuck procedure?

Under a general anesthetic, the loose excess folds of skin are removed and the skin is pulled down tight, like a curtain shade. The abdominal muscles are tightened with sutures to create a flat, more well-defined abdomen. The belly button is still the patient' s own belly button, but is just brought out through new, tight, flattened skin in its same location on the abdomen.


3. What is the abdominoplasty recovery period like?

Most patients are sore and need help with meals and medications for the first 7-10 days. A drain or two will be placed during surgery and is removed at the end of the first week. Typically by the end of two weeks, most women find themselves getting back into their routines, though they may find themselves tiring out faster than usual. A return to all physical activities is usual by the end of one month and patients will find a gradual increase in gym activities normal. A compression garment is worn for approximately six weeks.


4. What are the common side effects of abdominoplasty?

A feeling of tightness from the muscle sutures and numbness along the lower abdomen are usually noted by most patients. Other side effects are residual swelling and scars that are pink. The swelling improves over several months and the numbness typically goes away or dramatically improves over one year. Scars usually fade to a lighter pink or tan color over one to two years.


5. Does a male tummy tuck differ from a female tummy tuck?

The surgeries are performed the same, though the male incision tends to be more of a straight line and less of a curved line like the incision for a woman.


6. How can I maintain my figure after undergoing abdominoplasty surgery?

A healthy diet and regular physical activity to keep your weight down will maintain the results from a tummy tuck. The happiest patients are those that either maintain their weight or even lose a few extra pounds after surgery.


7. How do I find a tummy tuck surgeon in my area?

The easiest way to find a surgeon is to use an internet search engine to find a variety of plastic surgeons in a geographic region and view their website. Another resource is to check with the American Board of Plastic Surgery to find a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in your area.