Tummy Tuck Frequently Asked Questions 1. What are the different types of tummy tuck procedures? A: Tummy tuck is used as a synonym for a full Abdominoplasty, where the abdominal muscles are tightened, to reconstruct the abdominal wall. It is an important step on the abdominal contouring after pregnancy or moderate to severe weight gain in which cases the muscles separate. Another type of Abdominoplasty is the mini Abdominoplasty that does not involve tightening neither the abdominal muscle nor the relocation of the belly button. It only removes redundant skin from below the belly button.
2. Tummy Tuck – Is It Safe? A: It is safe if performed by a Board Certified Plastic surgeon in a credentialed Hospital or Surgical center.
3. Tummy Tuck vs Liposuction? A: Liposuction is a very good surgical procedure when the patient only needs contouring and has good skin tone with minimal stretch marks. If the patient has separation of the muscles, redundant skin and moderate to severe stretch marks, the Abdominoplasty will offer a better result, because it will reconstruct the abdominal wall and will get rid of the loose skin. I also like to do liposuction of the flanks in combination with the Abdominoplasty, to contour the waist better.
4. How long is the Recovery Period for Full Tummy Tuck? A: Since all abdominoplasties are not alike, recovery times are different. The amount of dissection, the tightness of the closure, the need to tighten the muscles and to what degree may all influence post-op pain, sense of tightness, and recovery time. However, most patients should be able to resume most activities by 3-6 weeks and should be able to stand erect within a few days. Patients who work from home can probably do so after the first week.
5. Does a tummy tuck leave scars? A: All incisions leave scars and this is not different with tummy tucks, but you can expect the scars to fade and become less noticeable with time.
6. Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck? A: Yes, all the sutures used are the kind that dissolves and will not prevent the patients from having an absolute normal pregnancy however is ideal that the patients are done having children, that way they don’t lose the benefits of the tummy tuck.
7. Are tummy tuck results permanent?