What is a Tummy Tuck?

Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is performed to procedure remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. This surgery is ideal for patients following pregnancy with weakened abdominal muscles and excess skin and subcutaneous fat that is not responsive to diet or exercise. Additionally, the procedure is helpful to remove excess skin and subcutaneous tissue following weight loss.

During your consultation with Dr. Boyd, you will discuss your aesthetic and functional goals and review your medical history. Following a physical exam to determine the amount of skin excess, muscle separation and how much subcutaneous fat is present, you and Dr. Boyd will determine the best operation to meet your needs. For instance do you need a Mini, Full or Extended Abdominoplasty? Would you benefit from having Liposuction at the same time? These are just a couple of the questions that will be addressed during your visit.

Surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a certified outpatient surgery center or hospital setting. The surgery takes approximately 2-3 hours and can be combined with other aesthetic procedures of the body or breast.

Following the procedure you may have drains in place that will drain excess fluid and prevent a fluid collection following your operation. The drains will be removed when they are draining less than 20cc of fluid for two consecutive days.

You should plan to take at least 2 weeks off of work following the procedure. You will be placed in a You will need to wear a compression garment continuously for 4-6 weeks following the surgery.

Recovery:
- Initial recovery involves about 2 weeks of downtime, with restrictions on physical activity for 4-6 weeks.
- Wearing a compression garment to minimize swelling and support healing.
- Regular follow-up visits to monitor your recovery.

Risks and Considerations:
- Common side effects include swelling, bruising, and temporary discomfort.
- Potential risks include infection, poor wound healing, seroma (fluid buildup), and asymmetry.
- Scars will fade over time but are permanent; their appearance can vary by individual.

Results:
- Results are often long-lasting, particularly if you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
- The procedure can dramatically improve body shape, confidence, and comfort with your abdominal appearance.

Choosing a Surgeon:
- Select a board-certified plastic surgeon specialized in body contouring procedures.
- Review their portfolio of tummy tuck results, understand their approach, and discuss your expectations.

Contact Us:
If you're considering a tummy tuck, contact us for a consultation. We'll discuss how we can help you achieve your desired abdominal shape, address any concerns, and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.