Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is one of the most popular procedures performed in our practice. This procedure removes loose skin, stretch marks, and tightens the abdominal muscles, resulting in a tighter and flatter abdomen.
Most patients requiring this surgery have had either multiple pregnancies or massive weight loss resulting in stretch marks, weak abdominal muscles, and loose skin. The attached tummy tuck before and after photos help illustrate the significant results this surgery can produce.
Tummy Tuck Before and After Photos
Three types of tummy tuck surgery procedure can be performed and the procedure is individualized to provide the optimal result.
A mini tummy tuck is ideal for patients who only have loose skin below the umbilicus (belly button). If the patient has good skin tone with excess fat above the umbilicus, liposuction of the upper abdomen can be performed at the same time. This procedure can be performed in our office without the use of general anesthesia.
A standard tummy tuck is the most common procedure performed and is indicated for patients who have loose skin and stretch marks below and above the umbilicus with or without weak abdominal muscles. This procedure is performed in an accredited outpatient surgery center under general anesthesia.
If the loose skin extends to the sides (love handles), an extended tummy tuck is indicated. The procedure is identical to a standard tummy tuck, except the incision is longer in order to address the loose skin laterally.
Tummy Tuck Surgery Before and After Pictures
Although not as painful as C-section procedure, the recovery for a tummy tuck is similar in terms of timing. We recommend no strenuous activity for 6-8 weeks after surgery. If a patient has a “desk job”, we require at least one week off from work, although two weeks would be ideal, mainly for comfort.
In some cases, if excess fat exists in the lower back and flank, liposuction can be added to improve the contour at the hip, waist area.
Tummy Tuck Surgery Procedure Before and After Pictures
We require patients to have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or less for the best result and smoothest recovery. BMI charts are readily available on-line and the patient can calculate his/her BMI by entering their ACCURATE height and ACCURATE weight.
Most patients inquire if this is a weight loss procedure. To some degree it is, although the usual weight of the skin and fat removed is between 2-4 pounds in most cases, as seen in these attached tummy tuck before and after pictures.