How is a Tummy Tuck Done?

Pregnancy or weight loss can leave you with stretched, sagging abdominal skin. No amount of exercise or healthy eating will tighten this loose skin. A tummy tuck can give you a flatter, smoother abdomen by removing that excess skin and fat. A tummy tuck works alone or as part of another procedure like a Mommy Makeover. 

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to remove skin and fat from the abdominal area. The surgery also repairs or tightens the abdominal wall muscles, resulting in a flatter and more toned appearance. A tummy tuck can remove stretch marks while eliminating excess skin. Tummy tucks work especially well for people who have experienced dramatic weight loss or had children. The surgery can be performed on men and women, although women often have more abdominal muscle stretching due to pregnancies. 

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How is a Tummy Tuck Done?

Dr. Scott Brenman will use an incision hidden beneath the bikini line to pull down and remove loose, stretched skin and extra fat. He will also tighten and repair the underlying abdominal muscles that can become loosened or separated. Liposuction may also be used to sculpt the area and remove any excess stubborn fat deposits for a more sculpted appearance. 

What is Recovery Like From a Tummy Tuck?

You will have a compression bandage to wear after surgery. It will hold the skin and muscles in place while they start to heal. You will have some soreness during the first few days, and Dr. Brenman recommends having someone assist you with basic tasks for a day or two. You will need two to three weeks before returning to work, and possibly more if your job involves lifting or heavy labor. Dr. Brenman will usually give people his approval to return to regular activities within four to six weeks. 

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What Results Will I See With a Tummy Tuck?

Your incision will look red and noticeable at first, but it will fade over the next few months. You can see results immediately after the surgery, but your full results will take six months to a year to develop. You will see tighter abdominal skin and a more toned appearance due to the repaired abdominal muscles. Your abdomen looks flatter and smoother due to the removal of stubborn fat. 

Can You Have Other Procedures With a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck forms the core of the popular Mommy Makeover procedure, a combination surgery that helps a woman restore her pre-baby body. A mommy makeover often includes a tummy tuck, breast lift, breast augmentation, or liposuction. Most other procedures can be paired with a tummy tuck, with liposuction being the most common.