Tummy Tuck, or Abdominoplasty, performed by Baltimore Cosmetic Surgeons
Patients who want to change the appearance of their abdominal area may choose a tummy tuck, also commonly called an abdominoplasty. At Cosmetic Medicine and Surgery at Mercy our doctors are skilled cosmetic and plastic surgeons who specialize in enhancing the breasts, face and body, including contouring the abdominal area. Our team will work with you individually to discuss your goals and to explore the best cosmetic treatment options for you.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is the removal of excess fat, skin and stretch marks from the abdomen to create a tightening of the stomach muscles for a smoother and firmer profile of the abdomen.
Who can benefit from a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck procedure or abdominoplasty cosmetic procedure is appropriate for patients who are in good health, who have realistic expectations and have one or more of the following:
- Extra or sagging abdominal skin
- A protruding abdomen that is out of proportion to the rest of the body
- Weakened abdominal muscles
- Concentrated excessive fatty tissue in the abdomen
Several factors that influence a tummy tuck include age, weight, history of weight loss, previous or planned abdominal and GYN procedures, muscle shape, fat distribution and laxity of skin.
It should be noted that women planning a future family or losing a considerable amount of weight may not be good candidates for a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck should not be used as a weight loss alternative.
How is the Tummy Tuck procedure performed?
Using a horizontal incision, a tummy tuck involves the removal of excess fat and skin between the belly button and pubic hair. The surgeon will tighten the stomach muscles and remove extra skin and tissue. Occasionally, the surgeon may suction remaining fat with liposuction. The remaining skin is re-positioned and sutured at the pubic area, followed by the belly button being returned to its original location.
How can I prepare for a Tummy Tuck?
Patients who will be having a tummy tuck should:
- Stop smoking at least two weeks prior to surgery and two weeks after surgery. Smoking increases the risk of complications and delays healing.
- Eat healthy, balanced meals. Good nutrition plays an important role in the healing process.
- Stop taking certain medications that increase the risk of bleeding such as Aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and some vitamins/homeopathic regimens prior to and after the surgery.
- At home, preparation includes: plenty of ice packs, a supply of loose comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and take off, petroleum jelly for incision sites, easy access to a telephone, a handheld shower head and a bathroom shower chair.
What is the recovery time after having a Tummy Tuck?
The recovery time from a tummy tuck procedure will depend on how quickly your body heals. The typical recovery time from a tummy tuck procedure is about three to six months. During recovery the patient can expect swelling to reduce, bruising to diminish, and scarring to begin to fade.
Is Liposuction used with a Tummy Tuck?
Liposuction, as known as lipoplasty, may be used in conjunction with a tummy tuck. Liposuction slims and reshapes targeted areas of the body by removing excess fat through suctioning out the fat from beneath the skin’s surface. Our cosmetic surgeons will review each case individually to determine if the patient can benefit from liposuction.
Scheduling an appointment for a Tummy Tuck
We are dedicated to helping patients find the best cosmetic procedure options available to help restore and renew their self-image. If you are interested in a cosmetic procedure, our doctors will work with you to help you feel beautiful at any age and any stage of life. Please call 410-332-9700.