| costs | the procedure | results and benefits | example photos |
Costs for this procedure vary, depending on the doctor, the location, and the difficulty of the specific case. Please call our offices at 878.804.5476 for an exact quote. Our prices are very competetive and you can be sure that you're getting the very best surgeon with Dr. Cheski.
An abdominoplasty (also known as a tummy tuck) can help. Excess skin and tightening the underlying musculature gives the stomach a flatter, firmer, tighter appearance as well as a thinner waist.
The information given here is general. Because each patient is different, questions that you may have regarding your body may not be fully explained here. A consultation visit with your doctor is highly recommended to give you the best information about your specific case.
How is it done?
There are several popular approaches. The most common is an incision across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area but beneath the "bikini line". An incision is also made around the belly button to free the surrounding skin. The skin is separated from the abdominal wall and lifted up above the rib cage. Next, the surgeon pulls the loose tissue/muscle from the left and the right sides together towards the center and suture both sides together. This tightens the muscles, provides a stronger abdominal wall and makes the waist smaller.
The skin is lowered. Excess skin is removed. A new opening is made for the belly button at the proper position (the original location is much lower). The incisions are closed with sutures (sutures and staples may be used). A dressing is placed over the incision area. After the first couple of days, the dressing may be replaced with an abdominal supporter. A light support garment may be worn for several months.
How long does surgery take?
Surgery takes about 2-5 hours depending on the extent of the repair.
Does it hurt?
Some soreness and discomfort are expected but can be controlled with medication. Bed rest for 2-3 days is recommended. While in bed, legs should be bent at the hips in order to reduce the strain on the abdominal area.
Do I need to be put to sleep for the surgery?
Abdominoplasty is usually done under general anesthesia.
Do I have to stay in the hospital?
An overnight stay after the surgery is usual, mainly for your comfort and safety. Although, some patients, whose area of repair is minimal, are able to return to home once recovered from anesthesia. This is usually discussed and decided by the surgeon during the pre-operative visit.
How long until I can go back to work?
The expected recovery period is 2 to 4 weeks, after which one may return to work.
How long before I can resume normal activities?
After 2-3 days, walking and resuming daily activities may be expected with avoidance of overactivity and strain such as lifting. Activity should be limited for 4-6 weeks. Normal activity may be resumed with the surgeon's permission.
What benefit could I expect from the surgery?
By removing the sagging, excess skin and accumulated fatty tissue, a flatter, firmer abdomen is achieved. The waist also appears smaller.
Is there much scarring?
Although every effort is made to minimize the scarring, the scars will be permanent. As time passes, the scar will fade. Within 3 - 6 months the scars will get flatter, lighter in color and improve considerably.
Risks/complications?
There are the standard risks associated with anesthesia (allergy to the medicine, increased risk if you are not healthy, etc.), which you will need to discuss with your doctor and/or anesthesiologist. Scars are expected but become lighter and flatter with time. The risk of infection is ever-present, any time the skin barrier is broken, but with the care that is taken by the surgeon, the staff and you, the risk should be minimal.
This information is only intended as an introduction to this procedure and should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed. A consultation with our qualified surgical counselor is recommended to determines your specific needs.