Click topic for more information:

• FAQ

Email Dr. Gonzalez

---

FAQ

About Tummy Tuck Surgery

The tummy tuck procedure is performed under a general anesthetic. The incision is placed just above the pubic hair and angled up toward the hipbones designed to be hidden by underwear or a bathing suit. Another incision is placed just around the naval, leaving it in its natural position. The skin and fat of the abdomen are raised off of the muscle area of the abdomen, and commonly the muscle layers are tightened with sutures, flattening the abdomen and narrow the waist. Redundant skin and fat is removed at this point. With removal of skin and fat, removal of the most objectionable stretch marks is usually accomplished. The remaining skin is sutured down to the lower incision, and a small incision is made to bring the naval out through this skin at its previous location. Drain tubes are placed under the abdominal skin to remove any fluid that may collect. Often, liposuction is utilized to fine tune the result of tummy tuck surgery.

Tummy Tuck Evaluation

During your tummy tuck consult we carefully listen to your concerns to gain an understanding of your desired changes and improvements.

The second step during your visit is the evaluation. During this process we evaluate the quality of your skin as well as the volume and position of fat collections around your abdomen. Your abdominal wall is examined for hernias, widening of muscle layers, extra loose skin, and stretch marks. Measurements and photograph are taken.

Finally, based upon the evaluation, we will give you our opinion about your options in an honest and straightforward way. Sometimes, liposuction alone may be an acceptable treatment to achieve your desired effect. Other options may be a mini tummy tuck, a full tummy tuck, or a combination of a tummy tuck and liposuction. You can expect to spend 45 minutes in our office during your first visit.

Early Recovery Period After Tummy Tuck Surgery

Immediately after the tummy tuck surgery you will be taken to the recovery room. Once you have recovered from anesthesia, are alert, comfortable and drinking fluids, you will be sent home. Some of our patients who have tummy tucks choose to stay overnight at the facility. During the first 24-48 hours we recommend bed rest with knees and hips flexed to take the tension off the newly tightened abdominal wall. You will empty the drain tubes every 12 hours and record the output. Short walks around the house to the bathroom or to meals are encouraged, even the day after the tummy tuck surgery, although initially you will need to walk with your chest at your waist. These activities will become much more comfortable on the subsequent days. After your tummy tuck, climbing steps within reason is acceptable. You will be encouraged not to lift over 5 pounds for the first 6-8 weeks. Oral pain medication will be prescribed for your pain relief. Often a long-acting local anesthetic agent is injected prior to the completion of the tummy tuck surgery to provide hours of pain relief. Driving will be restricted for at least the first week.

Intermediate Recovery Period After Tummy Tuck Surgery

In the intermediate recovery period between one and eight weeks after your tummy tuck you will be able to walk more upright and feel more comfortable walking and climbing stairs (which you will be encouraged to do). The drain tubes are usually removed at your first or second post operation appointment within the first three to seven days. There will be a few sutures from your tummy tuck that will require removal at 7-10 days (the rest will be absorbed into your body). Bruising, if present, usually disappears within the first one to two weeks. A majority of the swelling will disappear by this time, however, you will experience continued improvement during the following weeks. After the first two weeks, scar massage will be encouraged to soften and flatten the scar from your tummy tuck. Lifting exercises will be significantly limited for the first 6-8 weeks, however, walking for exercise and related activities such as Elliptical trainers, or bicycling could be attempted as early as four weeks.

Late Recovery Period After Tummy Tuck Surgery

Eight weeks after your tummy tuck you are released to perform any type of lifting or exercise activity that you desire. The scars will continue to mature with the pink scars fading to adjacent skin tone over the subsequent weeks and months.

Email Dr. Gonzalez

 

Email Dr. Gonzalez

Back to top

---