What to expect
- Average Time:
- Three to four hours
- Anesthesia:
- General
- Am I a good candidate?
- Sagging, protruding stomach, in good health, non-smoker, stable weight
- Recovery:
- Recovery instructions will be given to you post-surgery.
- Risks:
- Noticeable scarring, bleeding, infection, blood clots, poor healing, and anesthesia risks
- Inpatient/Outpatient:
- Outpatient
- Cost:
- The cost of the procedure will be discussed at your consultation with Dr. Peterson.
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, can make your dieting efforts and your hard work in the gym pay off by removing fat and skin. It also repairs abdominal muscles that have separated or stretched, giving the stomach a smoother, firmer appearance.
A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss. While the surgery is permanent, fluctuations in weight can mitigate positive change made during the procedure. If you are planning to lose a significant amount of weight or thinking about having a child, it might be a good idea to hold off on the procedure.
Surgery Details
A tummy tuck requires a horizontal incision in the area between the pubic hairline and the navel. The length of the incision is determined by the amount of correction that is necessary. Once Dr. Peterson has made the incision, she will repair weakened or separated abdominal muscles and remove excess fat, tissue, and skin. After all necessary tissue has been removed, the skin is stretched and incisions are closed, resulting in a firm and flat abdominal area.
