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FAQ

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

An abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck, is the surgical procedure designed to firm and smooth the abdomen. This cosmetic procedure removes excess fat and loose skin from the abdomen and tightens the abdominal wall. The result is a flatter, tighter abdominal profile. You might be a good candidate for an abdominoplasty if you have loose, sagging abdominal skin that is out of proportion to the rest of your body, abdominal muscles that have been weakened by pregnancy, aging, or excess fat concentrated beneath abdominal skin.

The abdominoplasty is performed by placing the incision just above the pubic area that extends to each side. How long the incision is depends on the amount of skin to be removed.

In a mini tummy tuck, only the loose skin below the navel is removed. Since less skin is removed the scar is shorter than a full abdominoplasty and is only a little longer than a typical hysterectomy scar. In addition to removing the loose skin, the muscles below the navel are tightened, thereby flattening the lower abdomen. In patients with loose skin above and below the navel, a full tummy tuck is necessary. Because there is more skin removed the scar is longer and extends further to each side. Underlying muscles extending from the upper abdomen to the pubic area are tightened by pulling them together and stitching them in place, which flattens the upper and lower abdomen. A full tummy tuck also requires an incision to be made around the navel. Although the navel position is unchanged, there will be a small scar around it.

Dr. Hackney will evaluate you during your consultation and discuss which type of abdominoplasty would best suit you.

Depending on the extent of your surgery you may choose to spend the night of surgery in the hospital or surgery center in Dallas. Most patients prefer to be asleep during the procedure. The first week following surgery you will be sore in the abdominal area and stooped over when you stand and walk because your skin will be tight. This will gradually loosen up and you will be walking normally in one to two weeks after surgery. You may be asked you to wear a compression garment for a few weeks after surgery. You will be able to return to non-strenuous work by two weeks and return to your regular exercise program four to six weeks after your surgery.

 

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