Tummy Tuck
At Carolina Plastic Surgery, our team is here to support your journey to a more confident you. For those struggling with stubborn fat and loose skin in the midsection, our board-certified plastic surgeons often find tummy tuck surgery is the ideal solution for helping men and women realize their body contouring goals. Also known as abdominoplasty, this transformative procedure repairs muscle separation and targets excess skin and fat in the abdomen to create a smoother, firmer midsection.
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What Is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is a surgery that addresses excess skin, separation of abdominal muscles, and localized fat deposits in the midsection. This procedure is particularly beneficial for individuals who have undergone significant weight loss or for women post-pregnancy. By tightening the abdominal muscles and removing excess tissue, a tummy tuck can restore a more toned and contoured appearance to your midsection, which may be difficult to achieve through diet and exercise alone.
What Does the Tummy Tuck Procedure Involve?
During a tummy tuck procedure, our surgeons begin by making a horizontal incision just above the pubic area. The length of this incision will vary depending on the amount of excess skin to be removed. Through this incision, the underlying abdominal muscles are typically tightened and any excess fat may be removed via liposuction. The skin is then pulled downward, and any excess tissue is removed, creating a smoother, more contoured appearance. Finally, the belly button is inset into its appropriate position.
Tummy tuck surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about two to three hours to complete, depending on the complexity. For women wanting to restore their pre-baby body, a tummy tuck may be performed as part of the more comprehensive mommy makeover. This treatment plan combines two or more procedures to help reverse the effects of pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Patient Results
What Can I Expect in My Tummy Tuck Recovery?
After your tummy tuck, you will need some time to rest and recover. Most patients can return to light activities within one to two weeks, but it is important to avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for at least six weeks. You will experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort during the first few weeks of recovery, but these symptoms can be managed with medication and should gradually subside. Wearing a compression garment is typically recommended to support the healing process and help minimize swelling. Final results will take 6-12 months to be fully realized.
Recovery is an important part of the tummy tuck process, and our team will provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions and monitor your progress closely. Our goal is to ensure a smooth recovery so you can fully enjoy your results.
Will I Have a Scar After Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Yes, as with any surgical procedure, a tummy tuck will leave a scar. However, our surgeons take great care to minimize the appearance of scarring. The incision is strategically placed so that it can be easily concealed under most types of clothing, including swimwear. Over time, with proper care and the use of recommended scar treatments, the scar often fades significantly. Our team will discuss scar management options with you to ensure the best possible results.
Schedule Your Tummy Tuck Consultation
If you are considering tummy tuck surgery, our skilled team is dedicated to providing you with the highest level of care, helping you feel comfortable and confident every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.