Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, removes excess fat and skin from the lower abdomen and repairs separated/stretched abdominal muscles. It contours the abdomen for a slimmer, firmer appearance. Tummy tuck can help to reverse changes caused by various factors:

Pregnancy
Aging
Weight fluctuation
Genetics
Prior surgery

Tummy tuck results are permanent but can be affected by fluctuations in weight or health condition. Individuals who are planning a pregnancy or to lose large amount of weight may want to delay a tummy tuck surgery.

Are you a candidate for tummy tuck?

Patients seeking a tummy tuck usually have one or more of the following conditions:

Excess skin and fat in the abdomen
Loose or weak abdominal muscles
Not planning on becoming pregnant or lose a large amount of weight in the near future

Your tummy tuck consultation.

The first step in tummy tuck surgery is to visit our clinic for a consultation. You will spend quality with Dr. Tran, a board-certified plastic surgeon, who will address all your questions regarding the surgery, and the post-surgery recovery.

During consultation we will examine and discuss:

Why you want tummy tuck surgery, including your preferences, expectations, and desired outcome
Medical history, drug allergies, and medications
Physical examination and unique anatomy

In addition, you will be shown many before and after photos of our past patients who have undergone abdominoplasty so you will have a better understanding of the results you may expect to attain.

Preparing For Your Tummy Tuck Procedure

Prior to the tummy tuck surgery, our team at Dr. Alan T. Tran Plastic Surgery will provide you with a set of instructions to follow before and after surgery:

Get lab testing and/or a medical evaluation
Stop smoking for a minimum of 6 weeks before the surgery and 6 weeks after the surgical procedure
Avoid any kind of anti-inflammatory drugs 2 weeks prior to the procedure; please see list of other medications to avoid
Arrange for personal transportation to reach home after the procedure as you cannot be sent home unaccompanied in an Uber type service or taxi

TECHNIQUES

There are different surgical techniques that the surgeon can perform depending on each patient’s individual needs and preferences.

Full Tummy Tuck

A horizontal incision is made at or near the natural crease in the lower abdomen. A second incision around the belly button may be necessary to remove excess skin in the upper abdomen and reposition the belly button. After the excess fat and tissue from the upper and lower regions of the abdomen are removed, the abdominal muscles are tightened, the belly button is repositioned/reshaped and the incisions are closed with sutures.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A short incision is made above the pubic bone and excess fat and skin are removed. After the lower abdominal muscles are tightened, the incision is closed with sutures. The belly button is not cut or reshaped.

Fleur-de-Lis Tummy Tuck

A horizontal incision is made in the pubic hairline and a vertical incision is made that extends up the torso. Candidates for this type of procedure have usually already lost a significant amount of weight or have had bariatric surgery.

What to expect after your Tummy Tuck surgery?

Wear binder and foam compression for approximately 2-3 weeks
Shower 48 hours after surgery
Application of scar reduction topicals or dressings 1-2 weeks after surgery
Return to light duty work in approximately 7-10 days
Gradually resume exercises in 2-3 weeks
Scheduling follow-up appointment