Tummy Tuck FAQ

Most people only undergo one tummy tuck procedure during their lifetime. If this is your first, you will undoubtedly want many questions answered to feel comfortable about what you can expect and the risks associated with your body contouring surgery.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we hear about tummy tucks, and of course, those all-important answers that you are looking for.

WHAT IS A TUMMY TUCK?

A tummy tuck is actually the slang name given to abdominoplasty surgery. This procedure is to tighten loose muscles in the abdomen (and in the case of patients whose muscles have separated during pregnancy, repaired) and loose skin is removed. The result is a smoother, flatter and much more toned shape.

DOES A TUMMY TUCK OFFER THE SAME RESULTS AS LIPOSUCTION?

A tummy tuck surgery and liposuction are two very different procedures. Both can help you to achieve a stomach that is much flatter and more attractive. However, liposuction works by removing pockets of stubborn fat and has no effect on the overall skin. Neither can it improve the abdominal muscles. If you have lax tummy muscles and excess skin, a tummy tuck will invariably produce much better tummy tuck results.

DO I NEED TO BE PUT TO SLEEP FOR A TUMMY TUCK PROCEDURE?

A tummy tuck is an invasive procedure. Therefore, it is better and safer for patients to have a general anesthetic ahead of their plastic surgery which will ensure that you have no awareness of the procedure, nor any pain. It is not possible to have the surgery under a local anesthetic or sedation.

WILL I HAVE SCARS AFTER MY TUMMY TUCK?

As an invasive procedure that requires an incision into your lower abdomen, you will have some scarring after your tummy tuck. Initially these will look very red and obvious. However, with proper care and time, your scars should eventually fade and become far less noticeable than before.

WHAT HAPPENS TO MY BELLY BUTTON DURING A TUMMY TUCK?

Our plastic surgeon will do everything possible to maintain your natural belly button during your tummy tuck. However, in some instances it may be necessary to reposition your belly button higher on the abdomen so that it looks natural and attractive.

IS A FULL TUMMY TUCK BETTER THAN A MINI TUMMY TUCK?

Both procedures entail the removal of excess skin and fat. A mini tummy tuck is generally appropriate for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity, whereas a full tummy tuck is often advised for those with a big need to remove excess skin

DO I ALWAYS NEED A FULL TUMMY TUCK?

No, you could have a hybrid tummy tuck surgery.  A hybrid tummy tuck combines the idea of a mini tummy tuck (with its small incision size beneath the underwear line) and the muscle tightening techniques used in a full tummy tuck. This helps achieve optimal results, especially for women who only have a small amount of excess skin as well as abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti).

CAN TUMMY TUCK SURGERY ELIMINATE STRETCH MARKS?

It really depends on where your stretch marks are. Often, when the skin is pulled tight it helps to substantially reduce their appearance. However, if you are also having areas of excess skin and fat removed, you may notice that some stretch marks are also eliminated by doing this.

DOES HAVING A TUMMY TUCK HELP WEIGHT LOSS?

While a tummy tuck can assist in eliminating persistent abdominal fat, it’s crucial to note that it is not a weight loss method. To be eligible for the procedure, individuals need to be at or near their ideal weight.

CAN I LOOK AT TUMMY TUCK BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS?

Yes. Please take a look at our tummy tuck before and after gallery. Click on the image below.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE ME TO RECOVER FROM A TUMMY TUCK?

All tummy tucks are unique to the patient that is having it, and this means that recovery process and times can vary. Patients who have more extensive work done, such as the re-joining of the abdominal muscles or large amounts of excess skin removed, may take longer to heal.

However, most patients should be able to resume the majority of their usual day to day activities between three and six weeks post-surgery. Our surgeon will give you more specific advice based on your individual case.

AM I ABLE TO HAVE A BABY AFTER A TUMMY TUCK?

While there is nothing to stop you from falling pregnant after a tummy tuck, it is important to bear in mind that the inevitable stretching of your abdomen and abdominal muscles to accommodate your growing baby could cause you to lose the initial benefits of your procedure.

In fact, many patients who have previously had a tummy tuck and gone on to have babies find that they need further abdominoplasty down the line. It is therefore our recommendation that you only opt for a tummy tuck if you are not planning on falling pregnant.

WHAT IS THE BEST GARMENT TO WEAR AFTER A TUMMY TUCK?

The side-fastening girdle stands out as our most favored compression garment for tummy tucks. Renowned for its high compressive quality and comfort, it is designed for everyday wear. Abdominal compression inserts are also offered to assist in preventing fluid retention, easing bruising, and optimizing post-procedure lymphatic drainage.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF TUMMY TUCK SURGERY?

Similar to any surgical procedure, there is a slight risk of bleeding and infection associated with a tummy tuck. Stringent measures are employed to minimize these risks through careful and precise surgical techniques. Additionally, there is a small possibility of blood clots forming in the legs or lungs.

To mitigate this risk, compression boots on the calves are typically worn during surgery to promote circulation, and a low dose of blood thinner may be administered. Maintaining proper hydration and engaging in regular movement (ambulation) are also crucial to reduce the risk of blood clots post-surgery.

WHAT ARE SOME LONG TERM CONSIDERATIONS AFTER A TUMMY TUCK?

Tummy tuck results remain stable over time if you can maintain a consistent weight. However, any fluctuations in weight or pregnancy may alter the outcome of the tummy tuck procedure.

AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR A TUMMY TUCK?

Best candidates for a tummy tuck procedure should always be assessed on a case by case basis. Our surgeon will not only want to be sure that you are in good physical health to undergo this cosmetic surgery, but also that you are emotionally well-balanced and that you have good reasons for wanting the procedure.

Book Your Tummy Tuck Consultation

Imagine Yourself at Galanis Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills Today!

If you have further questions and would like to find out more about tummy tucks, or if you would like to arrange an initial consultation to see if you are one of the good candidates for the procedure, please do not hesitate to contact our discreet and experienced team who will be delighted to assist you.

References

https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/procedure-learning-center/body/tummy-tuck-guide/