Tummy Tuck
Our Nacogdoches plastic surgeon —Dr. Gregory Wittpenn—has been helping patients achieve the firmer, flatter abdomens they desire with tummy tuck surgery for many years. He develops a customized treatment plan for every patient in order to ensure the procedure optimally addresses their goals. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. In the meantime, we invite you to explore the informative sections below to learn more about the tummy tuck procedure.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck—also known as an abdominoplasty—is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and loose tissue from the abdomen while tightening the underlying abdominal muscles. For patients who have a tummy bulge or “pooch” that persists despite dieting and exercise, tummy tuck surgery may be an ideal solution.
What Are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck can provide a number of both functional and aesthetic benefits, including:
Enhanced Appearance: An abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat while tightening the underlying musculature, resulting in a flatter and firmer abdominal profile.
Improved Posture: Tightening of abdominal muscles can improve posture and alleviate certain types of back pain.
Removal of Stretch Marks: Particularly those located below the navel, as the skin in this area is often removed during the tummy tuck procedure.
Correction of Abdominal Wall Hernias: Hernias can be repaired during a tummy tuck, adding both functional and aesthetic benefits.
Increased Comfort: Excess skin and fat can lead to chafing and skin irritation, resulting in rashes, unwanted odors, and other issues; removing excess skin can improve overall comfort.
Boosted Self-Confidence: A flatter abdomen can enhance body image and self-esteem.
Better Fit of Clothes: Clothing may fit more comfortably and attractively after abdominoplasty.
Long-lasting Results: With proper diet and exercise, the results of a tummy tuck can be long-lasting.
Who is a Candidate for Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Both men and women can benefit from an abdominoplasty if they have excess skin, loose tissue, or stretched musculature in the abdominal region. The procedure is commonly sought by those who have experienced significant weight loss and women who want to improve the appearance of their abdomen after pregnancy. A tummy tuck can be performed as a standalone treatment or it can be combined with other cosmetic enhancement procedures as part of a mommy makeover.
Optimal tummy tuck candidates should be non-smokers who are in good health and at a stable body weight. Having a tummy tuck typically does not interfere with a woman’s ability to get pregnant, but pregnancy can compromise abdominoplasty results, so ideal candidates should also be done having children before seeking a tummy tuck.
What Can I Expect During the Tummy Tuck Procedure?
Tummy tuck surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, with most procedures taking between two and five hours to complete. Incisions will be placed from hip to hip along your bikini line so that loose skin and other redundant tissues can be pulled down and removed. A secondary incision is made around your belly button, which is then reconstructed after your abdominal skin is pulled down. Stretch marks on the lower abdomen can be eliminated when extra skin is removed, although tummy tuck surgery does not typically address upper abdominal stretch marks. The underlying muscle tissues can also be tightened during the procedure, and umbilical hernia can be corrected, if necessary.
For those who are having multiple procedures performed as part of a comprehensive body rejuvenation plan, the surgeries can often be completed in one session. For instance, liposuction is often incorporated into the tummy tuck treatment process to address stubborn fat and improve body definition. For those looking to restore their pre-pregnancy figure, a breast augmentation or lift can often be performed concurrently with your abdominoplasty.
Patient Results
What is Recovery After Tummy Tuck Surgery Like?
The initial recovery after a tummy tuck typically takes about two weeks, after which time most patients are able to resume normal, non-strenuous daily activities. You may experience some discomfort, bruising, and swelling after surgery, but these concerns are typically manageable with pain medication and adequate amounts of rest. Patients will also likely be instructed to wear compression garments or dressings for a few weeks to help support the surgical site and keep swelling to a minimum.
Light exercise can generally be resumed around 4-6 weeks after surgery, but it is important to consult with your surgeon beforehand. Most patients report feeling completely back to normal after about 2-3 months. Surgical scars should continue to fade for 6-12 months.
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?
Dr. Wittpenn creates a custom treatment plan for every patient, so the precise cost of a tummy tuck will vary based on a variety of factors, such as the complexity of the procedure and whether any other treatments are being performed concurrently. Once Dr. Wittpenn has had the chance to consult with you regarding your goals, we can provide you with a personalized price quote based on your unique needs. In order to make the cost of treatment as affordable as possible for our patients, we partner with CareCredit® and ALPHAEON® Credit—trusted healthcare lenders who offer low- and no-interest financing for qualified patients. To learn more, please reach out to our office today.
Book Your Consultation
If you are considering a tummy tuck or have questions about the abdominoplasty procedure, please contact us today. A member of our friendly and knowledgeable team can help you schedule a consultation with Dr. Wittpenn.