Abdominoplasty – or tummy tuck – is a surgical procedure that involves removal of excess skin and fat from the abdomen, as well as tightening of the abdominal muscles (rectus plication). The ideal candidate for abdominoplasty is already at a healthy goal weight, but has loose skin or persistent bulging from muscle separation.
Did you know?
A tummy tuck will not make you lose weight. Tummy tuck surgery addresses extra skin and fat, as well as muscle separation, but does not result in significant weight loss. It is best to be within 10 pounds of your goal weight before having a tummy tuck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for a tummy tuck procedure?
You may be a candidate for a tummy tuck if you are a non-smoker with excess abdominal skin – perhaps due to significant weight loss or pregnancy – and you are currently at a stable weight.
What should I expect during my abdominoplasty?
You’ll prepare for your abdominoplasty by not eating or drinking anything starting at midnight the night before surgery. When you arrive in the pre-operative area, Dr. Kulkarni will place a series of planning marks on your abdomen. You will then receive anesthesia to keep you comfortable and asleep during surgery. A curvilinear incision will be made along your pubic hairline, after which the excess fat will be removed. The abdominal muscles will be sutured and repaired before the incision is finally closed and sutured shut. You will likely have 1-2 drains that will stay in place for 1-2 weeks after surgery.
Will I need to follow any post-procedural instructions?
You will go home in an abdominal binder that will stay in place to reduce swelling. You will be given instructions on how to care for the drain and which positions will be most comfortable at home. Your dressings will be removed a couple of days after surgery, and your drain will be removed 1-2 weeks after surgery. Once your drain is out, you will transition from an abdominal binder to a Spanx-type garment, which you will wear for about 6 weeks after surgery to control swelling. You’ll be instructed to avoid certain physical activity in the weeks following your procedure. Final results from a tummy tuck are visible around 6 weeks after surgery.
