Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures. It is part of the “mommy makeover” procedure as many patients find they have extra skin after pregnancy. Abdominoplasty restores the tightness to the abdominal muscles as well as removes unwanted excess lower abdominal skin. This is achieved by realigning the rectus muscles back to the middle (rectus diastasis repair) and giving a corset effect on the belly. The overall effect is a flatter tummy, less fat on the flanks, and a cuter belly button.

Tummy tucks come in all shapes and sizes depending on the patient. Most patients wish they would have done it much sooner as they notice the benefits right after surgery. The recovery is longer than some other procedures since this surgery involves restoring the muscles of the belly to their normal position as well as pulling the skin much more snugly. 

The procedure

Abdominoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia in the operating room. There is always some incision in the lower abdomen that usually hides below underwear or swimsuits. A mini tummy tuck may have a smaller incision and may not require muscle work, but this procedure is reserved for those with good muscles and minimal excess skin. In a full tummy tuck, the skin of the belly is elevated, redraped and the extra removed. Dr. Elston typically recommends liposuction as well to address love handles or other areas of stubborn fat, giving a more contoured and sculpted result. When liposuction isn’t performed there is an improvement of the skin and ab muscles, but often the overall abdomen looks “blocky” or square instead of having gradual curves and contours. Drains are placed and sometimes need to stay for a week or two.

Scheduling

Currently, we only offer tummy tucks to existing surgical patients.  We will not be offering free virtual consults to patients seeking abdominoplasty as their initial procedure with our office.