Tummy Tuck

Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck are in good health, stable weight, and reasonably good shape. They typically have excess abdominal fat, weakened muscles, or loose skin and desire a flatter abdominal profile. Patients who undergo the procedure are often mothers seeking to restore their body contours to pre-pregnancy shape or individuals who have had significant weight loss but find that remaining abdominal fat or sagging skin is resistant to diet and exercise.

A tummy tuck is not an alternative to weight loss or exercise. Continued fluctuations in weight can significantly diminish the results. Individuals considering pregnancy or intending to lose weight may be advised to postpone the procedure.

Most abdominoplasty patients are thrilled with their flatter abdomen and firmer, slimmer silhouette. Specific results can vary. Those most satisfied with their results adapt their lifestyle to maintain their results.

Following surgery, you can expect swelling, pain, and discomfort that can be managed with rest and medication. Compression garments are typically recommended for up to one-month post-surgery. Drains to remove excess fluid may be used for a short time during recovery. Many patients are mobile within one to two weeks, though a return to total activity will generally take several weeks, and strenuous activity should be avoided. Dr. Rieger will tailor post-surgical instructions and advice to your situation to help ensure the smoothest possible recovery with excellent results.

Dr. Rieger will discuss the risks and potential complications with you in depth before surgery. Significant complications are unlikely but can occur. Some possible complications include bleeding, fluid collection, infection, delayed healing, tissue loss, increased scarring, numbness, or asymmetrical contours. It is essential to adhere strictly to the pre and post-op instructions to reduce your risk of developing unwanted complications.

If you are a smoker, significantly overweight, have certain medical conditions, or are taking medications that interfere with circulation or healing, this procedure may not be right for you at this time. Dr. Rieger will thoroughly review your health, lifestyle, and risk to determine your candidacy and options.

The extent of scarring will vary with the amount of skin removed and the surgical technique used. Typically, scarring follows the bikini line, extending from hip to hip above the pubic region, and is easily concealed with clothing. Scarring is permanent, but in most cases, it tends to fade in months. During the initial weeks of recovery, following all post-surgical advice is essential, such as maintaining good health and nutrition, using caution with exposure of scars to sunlight, and avoiding activity that will strain the incision.

Some individuals are prone to red and raised scarring (keloid) or dark in color (hypertrophic).

Individual recovery times and needs vary. Most patients return to work within two weeks, but strenuous activity should be avoided for longer.

It is recommended that childbearing be completed before undergoing abdominoplasty. Pregnancy can have an unpredictable impact on your results or may undo the benefits. Abdominal skin may stretch and have increased laxity.

A mini-tummy tuck addresses a smaller area of the lower abdomen in cases where the patient has firmer abdominal muscles and less excess skin. The procedure is less invasive than a full abdominoplasty (tummy tuck). An incision is not required around the navel.

A full abdominoplasty is more suited to patients with significant abdominal muscle laxity, excess fat, or sagging skin. It is often performed on patients who have lost weight or experienced muscle separation, weakness from pregnancy, or other factors. Liposuction may be combined to improve the contour of the waistline, often called the love handles.

Not at all. Abdominoplasty can be a valuable option for both men and women.