Q-Who is the best candidate for a tummy tuck? A-The best candidate for a tummy tuck is a physically healthy man or woman who is realistic in their expectations and looking to minimize the appearance of a protruding abdomen. Tummy tucks can be particularly effective for women whose have had multiple pregnancies.
Q-What is a mini tummy tuck? A-A mini tummy tuck, also known as partial abdominoplasty, is a variation of the traditional tummy tuck which involves a shorter incisions and typically does not require that a second incision be made around the belly button.
Q-Where is abdominoplasty performed? A-Tummy tuck procedures may be performed in a surgeon’s office-based a facility, an outpatients surgical center or a hospital.
Q-What type of anesthesia is used during a tummy tuck? A-Tummy tucks are typically performed with either general anesthesia or a combination of local anesthesia and sedation.
Q-What happens during a tummy tuck procedure? A-After anesthesia, an incision is made which typically runs between the hipbones just above the pubic area and a second incisions is usually made around the navel. The skin is then separated from the abdominal wall and lifted up to reveal the vertical abdominal muscles. These muscles are tightened, the skin flap is pulled down and the excess is removed, and a new hole is cut for the navel and stitched into place. The incisions are then closed. For a mini tummy tuck, the incisions is typically a shorter one and the second incision around the navel is often not required.
Q-How long does the tummy tuck procedure last? A-Tummy tucks typically take between two and five hours to complete between two and five hours
Q-Where are the incisions made for a tummy tuck? A-A traditional tummy tuck involves one long incision running from hipbone to hipbone just above the pubic area. A second incisions is typically made around the navel to free it from the surrounding tissue. A partial abdominoplasty usually involves a shorter incision and may not require the second incision around the navel. The incisions for a tummy tuck will result in a noticeable scar, though it will fade and flatten with time.
Q-Are there scars after a tummy tuck? A-Tummy tucks do results in scars. The scar from a traditional tummy runs from hipbone to hipbone just above the pubic area along with a second one around the navel. This is a large scar, though it will fade and flatten with time. Mini tummy tucks typically involve shorter incisions and may not require the second incision around the navel, thus resulting in less scarring.
Q-Are tummy tucks painful? A-Some pain and discomfort typically occurs for the first few days after surgery, though pain medication can help to control this.
Q-What is the recovery like after a tummy tuck? A-Patient can expect to experience some pain or discomfort which can be controlled with pain medication. In addition, bruising, swelling, and numbness may also occur.
Q-How much time will I need to take off from work after a tummy tuck? A-Patients are typically able to return to work within two to four weeks after a tummy tuck.
Q-How soon after a tummy tuck can I exercise? A-After a tummy tuck, exercise and other strenuous activities should be avoided for four to six weeks.
Q-How soon are the stitches removed after a tummy tuck? A-Stitches are typically removed within five to seven days after a tummy tuck.
Q-What are the risks or complications associated with tummy tucks? A-Some of the potential complications that can occur with a tummy tuck may include adverse anesthesia reaction, bleeding, blood clots, excessive scarring, infection, poor healing, and the need for additional surgery.
Q-Does insurance ever cover the cost of a tummy tuck? A-Tummy tucks performed solely for cosmetic reasons are typically not covered by insurance, though some amount of coverage may be available in cases involving a hernia or spreading of the anterior muscles
Q-Is it possible to get financing for a tummy tuck? A- Financing is available for plastic surgery procedures.
Q-How permanent are tummy tuck results? A-The results of a tummy tuck can be very long lasting, particularly with proper diet and exercise.
Q-Will weight gain after a tummy tuck affect the results? A-Any significant weight gain after a tummy tuck can negatively affect the results achieved through surgery.
Q-Will the results of a tummy tuck be negatively affected by future pregnancy? A-Future pregnancies can negatively impact the results of a tummy tuck. It’s generally recommended that tummy tucks be postponed if patients are anticipating a future pregnancy.
Contact Dr. Mingrone to learn more about tummy tuck surgery or to schedule a consultation.
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