Tummy tuck surgery, or abdominoplasty, is a great surgical option for patients who want to remove excess and outstretched abdominal skin after pregnancy or weight loss. At the time of your consultation, Dr. Li will analyze your abdomen in detail and discuss whether Tummy Tuck Surgery is a good option for you.
In the standard procedure, liposuction is first performed in the torso, including the upper abdomen and flanks. Excess skin and fat are then removed from the torso, and healthy skin is brought downwards to create the new abdomen. At the same time, muscles which may been stretched apart are brought back together. The belly button is re-used. The result is a smooth and tight abdomen with a final scar which is low and hidden.
In some situations, there may also be excess skin involving the back and/or bilateral thighs, which may require removal for the best results. These surgeries are more complicated and involve a more extended recovery.
KEY POINTS
SURGERY UNDER GENERAL ANESTHETIC
GO HOME THE SAME DAY (DAY SURGERY)
RETURN TO NORMAL ACTIVITIES IN 2-3 WEEKS
RESTORE A YOUTHFUL AND FLAT ABDOMEN
ELIMINATE EXCESS ABDOMINAL SKIN AND FAT
RESTORE INTEGRITY TO YOUR ABDOMINAL MUSCLES
ENHANCE YOUR HIP-TO-WAIST RATIO
FINAL SCARS ARE LOW AND EASILY HIDDEN
WHAT TO EXPECT BEFORE SURGERY
You will be evaluated by Dr. Li at the time of your initial consultation to determine if Tummy Tuck Surgery is the best option for you
You will be required to quit smoking and oral contraceptives 4 weeks before surgery
You will need to complete testing before surgery, which may include a physical with your PCP/primary physician, blood work, and an ECG
Prescriptions for your surgery will be sent to your local pharmacy, please obtain these medications ahead of time and bring them to your surgery
A deposit is required to secure your surgery date
Full payment is required 2 weeks before surgery; payment options include cash, cashier's check, or credit through Alphaeon or CareCredit
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SURGERY
General anesthesia can sometimes cause generalized body soreness and fatigue for a couple of days
Maximum discomfort will occur in the first few days after surgery and gradually improve
You will be provided a compression garment to wear; it is recommended that you wear this for 6 weeks to help shape your body and minimize swelling
You may experience temporary bruising, swelling, numbness, or a burning sensation involving your abdomen and over areas you had liposuction; bruising and swelling takes several weeks to improve; numbness takes a couple months to normalize
Scars may be red and firm for approximately 6 months before they soften and fade