Tummy Tuck

Tummy Tuck with H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery

Belly fat – we all hate it! Not only does it make us feel unattractive, but it can be some of the most stubborn fat on your body. For many of us, it simply refuses to budge even after hours in the gym and months of careful monitoring in the kitchen. Talk about frustrating.

Luckily, there are cosmetic surgery procedures like tummy tucks to get rid of that fat. An abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is the best procedure when you have excess skin and fat. It’s particularly popular with women who want their pre-pregnancy bodies back.

Get back the body you had before motherhood. Wear the clothes that make you feel truly feminine. Feel good about yourself in the mirror outside your shower. Take the next step to return to the figure of your youth.

Our award-winning surgeons at H/K/B teach abdominoplasty to plastic surgeons from around the world. So, you can be assured they are well-versed in the most advanced – yet medically sound – techniques to ensure the best tummy tuck results and your safety and satisfaction. To learn more about tummy tuck surgery at H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery, complete our online form today to schedule a visit.

What Can A Tummy Tuck Do For Me?

A tummy tuck can restore a lean, more youthful contour to your tummy and waistline. You can sit down without that uncomfortable “belly roll,” and your clothes will fit better. Your clothing selection will expand to midriffs and bikinis. You will feel good about your belly again.

If you have excess skin and fat in the abdominal area you can’t seem to lose, an H/K/B plastic surgeon can help. If you’re looking for a tummy tuck, we are renowned for our state-of-the-art facilities, and clinically proven techniques.

What Is A Drainless Tummy Tuck?

Drains are typically inserted post-operatively to prevent fluid accumulation that occurs between tissue layers after tummy tuck surgery. Although they have been necessary for quite some time, drains are awkward, messy, and cumbersome for patients to carry around for weeks after their procedure. Now, patients can experience a drain-free recovery thanks to the use of progressive tension sutures.

The cutting edge progressive tension suture technique uses dissolving stitches to close the gap between the muscle and the fascia, decreasing the chance of seroma and other post-operative fluid collection concerns. Studies have shown that patients who had progressive tension sutures had a reduced risk of postoperative seroma after having an abdominoplasty. As innovators in plastic surgery, we are proud to give our patients a recovery free from anxiety about the aftercare of drains.

At H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery, we use a technique that removes the space between the abdominal wall and overlaying fat and skin whenever possible. No space means no place for fluid to collect, and therefore, no need for drains. While not all patients are ideal candidates for this technique, recovery is easier for those who can have the surgery safely and effectively without the drains.

Few practices offer a drainless tummy tuck, so if you are interested in this surgery, see us for an examination and consultation to learn if you can benefit from this advancement while removing stubborn fat from the abdomen.

Your Tummy Tuck Consultation with
H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery

Abdominoplasty is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. When you come to one of our H/K/B locations, you will be treated to our professional staff and state-of-the-art facilities. You will be given a thorough physical examination and meet personally with your H/K/B plastic surgeon.

Your surgeon will discuss your decision for abdominoplasty, your desired outcome, and a reasonable result with your unique body type. They will explain the nuances of a tummy tuck, what to expect leading up to surgery, during surgery, and your recovery afterward. They will also explain the risks and the rewards, and will answer any questions and address any concerns, including whether you might be a candidate for a drain-free procedure with Progressive Tension Suturing. You will not be rushed and will have sufficient time to be fully informed.

H/K/B: Health, Knowledge, Beauty

Your Trusted Partner For Transformation

The H/K/B Way is a collaborative effort between all of our physicians and staff. Together, we are committed to providing our patients with state-of-the-art procedures, best-in-class surgical technology, and the most advanced methods for ensuring not just optimal results, but also optimal recovery periods.

What Can I Expect During A Tummy Tuck?

You should avoid blood thinners like aspirin, ibuprofen, and Tylenol for two weeks before and two weeks after your tummy tuck procedure. Patients over the age of 50 will require an EKG.

During your surgery, excess fat and skin are removed from above the belly button down to the pubic area. The incision typically extends from one hipbone to the other, but it is placed low. Liposuction is performed through the entire abdomen, hips, and pubic area to suction out the excess fatty tissue.

The muscles are repositioned to achieve a flat, tight abdomen with dramatic improvement to the waistline and posture. This process also allows any abdominal muscles that have stretched apart to be brought back together. Stretch marks can sometimes be removed or reduced as well during this procedure, and we can diminish them further through our ICON Laser, which is the only FDA-approved laser procedure for stretch mark removal.

Abdominoplasty is an outpatient surgery performed at our state-of-the-art facility, or for more invasive procedures, you can stay in our fully accredited overnight facilities under the care of our professional nursing staff – all of whom are certified in advanced cardiac life support. This is not a requirement for a facility’s accreditation and certification, but it ensures the highest level of supervision, evaluation, and care should there ever be an emergency. It means you can relax in the knowledge that you are in good hands.

Note for those with only abdominal fat and no excess skin, abdominal liposuction alone may be sufficient. During your consultation with our doctors, we will advise as to which procedure will bring you the results you’re after.

What Is A Mesh Abdominoplasty?

In rare cases, mesh is inserted during a tummy tuck to reinforce the stomach muscles. This is only indicated on occasion for those with a severe injury or defect in an abdominal muscle, those with significant laxity of the abdominal muscular wall, those who have experienced repeated abdominal muscle separation, or those who need a large hernia repair during their procedure.

Beauty Enhanced
Confidence Restored

Picking The Best Plastic Surgeon For Your Tummy Tuck

An accomplished plastic surgeon is vital for your desired outcome from a tummy tuck procedure. Your surgeon must have the right credentials and qualifications. Board certification, education, and satisfied patients are essential in picking the right candidate.

The support staff is also essential. They should be friendly, compassionate, professional, and dedicated. It is important that you feel comfortable with the entire team.

Research and meeting with the surgeon personally should be done with the utmost consideration. Check out the facility where the surgery will be performed as well. This is not a decision to be rushed or made haphazardly. Take your time to gather the necessary information.

Candidates For Tummy Tucks

Surgery should be sought for your personal self-confidence and not for the reasons of another.

You should consider a tummy tuck if:

  • You have no health issues and are physically healthy
  • You have realistic expectation
  • You don’t smoke or are willing to quit
  • You feel uncomfortable with excess skin and stubborn fat in the abdominal area
  • You are frustrated with finding clothes to wear due to stubborn fat and excess skin in the abdominal area.

What Happens During Tummy Tuck Recovery?

Recovery time from an abdominoplasty varies from patient to patient. While some feel well enough to return to work within a week, others require three or more weeks. With your case and the extent of your surgery, we can give you an estimate of your recovery time. Expect to be swollen and sore for at least a few days, but your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to make you comfortable during recovery.

Standing up straight will be a problem at first, but you should start walking as soon as possible to avoid blood clotting. Progressive Tension Suturing patients experience a better quality of life during recovery compared to patients with drains. A clinical study proved that patients who used Progressive Tension Suturing returned to a normal work schedule approximately three days sooner than those with drains. Although you might feel eager to resume heavy activity following your tummy tuck with Progressive Tension Suturing, please remember you just had a major surgery, and your body will need time to heal. Be sure to carefully follow your surgeon’s recovery instructions.

We will monitor your progress after your surgery, and give you detailed post-operative instructions to make your recovery as easy as possible. The results are long-lasting. It is possible to develop new fat, of course, but you can help maintain your slimmer contour with the preventative measures of healthy eating and regular exercise.

Tummy Tuck Cost & Financing

The cost of tummy tuck surgery is important to our patients at H/K/B. There is no set price for our customized approach as the cost is as unique as you. Your surgeon will devise a specific approach according to your desired result and unique anatomy. Cost and finance options will be discussed at your initial consultation.

Schedule Your Consultation

We are dedicated to guiding each individual through their unique journey by providing exceptional care in order to achieve exceptional results. Complete our form to receive more information and to schedule your consultation with one of our expert surgeons at H/K/B Cosmetic Surgery. 

Tummy Tuck FAQS

Review your medical history, including previous surgeries and current medications, to discuss with your surgeon. Prepare a list of questions about the procedure, risks, and recovery to ask during the consultation. Adopt healthy lifestyle habits, such as quitting smoking and maintaining a balanced diet, to ensure optimal preoperative condition.

On the day of your tummy tuck procedure, you will arrive early at the surgical center to check in and complete any necessary paperwork. You will meet with your surgeon and anesthesiologist to review the procedure and anesthesia plan. After changing into a surgical gown, an IV line will be inserted, and you will receive general anesthesia. The surgery typically lasts 2 to 5 hours, during which the surgeon will remove excess skin and fat and tighten your abdominal muscles. Post-surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where your vital signs will be monitored as you wake up, and you will receive instructions for initial at-home care.

Yes, you will likely have drains inserted to remove excess fluid after the surgery. These drains typically stay in place for about one to two weeks, depending on the amount of fluid drainage. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for the drains and will remove them once the fluid output decreases to an acceptable level.

Muscle repair is a common component of a tummy tuck, especially in cases where there is significant muscle separation or weakness, often due to pregnancy or weight fluctuations. However, not all tummy tucks require muscle repair; the necessity depends on the individual’s anatomy and surgical goals. Your surgeon will assess your abdominal muscles during the consultation and determine if muscle repair is needed to achieve the best results.

A tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure but rather a body contouring surgery aimed at removing excess skin and tightening the abdominal muscles. While you may lose a small amount of weight from the removal of skin and fat, the primary goal is to improve the shape and appearance of the abdomen. For significant weight loss, it is recommended to achieve a stable weight through diet and exercise before undergoing a tummy tuck.

Most sutures used in a tummy tuck are internal and dissolve on their own, so they do not need to be removed. However, if any external sutures are used, your surgeon will provide instructions and a timeline for their removal, typically within one to two weeks after surgery. Your follow-up appointments will ensure proper healing and address any concerns related to sutures.

  1. Smooth and Flat Abdomen: The abdominal area should appear smooth, firm, and flat without visible bulges or irregularities.
  2. Natural-Looking Belly Button: The belly button should be positioned naturally and blend seamlessly with the surrounding skin, without looking overly stretched or artificial.
  3. Minimal Scarring: The incision lines should be well-placed and thin, ideally hidden below the bikini line, with scars that fade well over time and do not significantly detract from the overall aesthetic.

Post-treatment abdominal swelling is a common and expected part of the recovery process after a tummy tuck. This swelling can cause the abdomen to appear larger than anticipated immediately after surgery and may last for several weeks to months. To manage swelling, your surgeon will recommend wearing a compression garment, following a proper post-operative care routine, and avoiding strenuous activities until cleared. Swelling typically decreases gradually, revealing the final contour over time.

Yes, you can get pregnant after a tummy tuck; the procedure does not affect your ability to conceive. However, it is generally recommended to complete your family planning before undergoing a tummy tuck, as pregnancy can stretch the abdominal muscles and skin, potentially compromising the results of the surgery. If you do become pregnant after a tummy tuck, you may require a revision surgery to restore the initial results.

Recovery from a tummy tuck typically takes several weeks to a few months. Most patients can return to light activities and work within two to four weeks, but it usually takes about six to eight weeks before more strenuous activities and exercise can be resumed. Full recovery, including the resolution of swelling and the final appearance of the abdominal area, can take up to six months to a year. Your surgeon will provide a detailed recovery plan and follow-up schedule to ensure proper healing.

After a tummy tuck, you should generally avoid exercise for about six to eight weeks. Light activities and walking can usually be resumed after about two weeks, but it’s essential to avoid any strenuous activities or exercises that strain the abdominal muscles during the initial recovery period. Always follow your surgeon’s specific recommendations and gradually ease back into your exercise routine to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.

After a tummy tuck, it is generally recommended to avoid lifting heavy objects, including your baby or toddler, for at least six weeks to allow your abdominal muscles and incision sites to heal properly. Your surgeon may provide specific guidance based on your individual recovery progress, so it is important to follow their instructions. During this period, arranging for help with childcare and avoiding any activities that strain your abdomen will be crucial to ensure a smooth recovery.

Feeling tightness in your abdomen after a tummy tuck is normal and expected due to the surgical procedure and muscle repair. While it’s important to move gently and avoid strenuous activities, light movement and walking are encouraged to promote circulation and prevent complications like blood clots. Follow your surgeon’s specific post-operative guidelines, which usually include restrictions on certain movements and activities. If you experience severe pain or have concerns about your movements, contact your surgeon for personalized advice.

A tummy tuck can be painful, particularly in the first few days following the procedure. Patients typically experience significant discomfort, swelling, and tightness in the abdominal area. Pain is usually managed with prescribed pain medications and gradually decreases over the first few weeks. Most patients find that pain significantly improves after the initial recovery period, though some soreness and tightness may persist for a few months. Following your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions can help manage pain and promote healing.

Yes, during a tummy tuck, your original belly button is usually preserved, but it is repositioned to fit the new contour of your abdomen. The surgeon creates an opening for the belly button in the newly tightened skin and secures it in a natural-looking position. This process helps ensure that the belly button appears as natural as possible post-surgery.

Before your tummy tuck consultation, it is recommended to prepare a list of questions to ask the surgeon. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the abdominal area. Be prepared to discuss your medical history, including previous surgeries, allergies, and medications.

On the day of your tummy tuck, your surgeon will mark your abdomen before going back to surgery. The nurse or surgeon will take photographs of you prior to surgery. You will meet your anesthesia provider who will ensure your comfort during the procedure. The surgeon will make an incision in the lower abdomen and remove excess fat and skin, and may also repair the abdominal muscles. The incision is then closed, and you will be monitored closely during the recovery phase. Typically, a compression binder or garment is placed.

 It is common to have drains in place after a tummy tuck to prevent the buildup of fluids which can cause complications. Drains may stay several weeks after the procedure, depending on the amount of fluid they are producing. Drainless tummy tucks can be performed in select patients. Speak with your plastic surgeon to determine if you are a candidate for a drainless tummy tuck.

Tummy tuck surgery typically involves tightening the abdominal muscles for optimal results. However, every patient’s anatomy is unique, and the approach may differ for each individual case. Your surgeon will advise you if repairing the muscle is necessary for you.

 A tummy tuck can help improve the appearance of your abdominal area and provide a flatter, more toned look. However, the visibility of your abdominal muscles will depend on your unique body composition, and not all patients will achieve the same result.

A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss surgery; it is meant to enhance the appearance of the abdominal area by removing excess skin and fat. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, is essential for achieving weight loss goals.

A majority of the sutures will dissolve on their own, however, small suture loops may need to be removed during a follow-up appointment. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions for aftercare to ensure proper healing.

 A great tummy tuck result should provide a flatter, more toned appearance of the abdominal area, with minimal scarring and a natural-looking belly button.

Postoperative abdominal swelling and bruising are common for the first several weeks after surgery. You can expect the swelling to gradually decrease over time, and your surgeon will provide specific aftercare instructions to minimize discomfort and promote proper healing.

While it is possible to become pregnant after a tummy tuck, many surgeons recommend waiting until after you have completed your family to undergo the procedure.

Recovery time varies for each patient but generally takes an average of 2-4 weeks. Following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions is crucial for promoting a smooth and efficient recovery.

Complications associated with tummy tuck surgery include fluid collections (seromas), infection, bleeding, blood clots, and minor complications such as wound healing concerns.

Depending on your unique needs and goals, it may be possible to undergo full-body sculpting including a tummy tuck procedure. It is important to discuss this option with your surgeon during the initial consultation.

Patients should avoid strenuous exercise for several weeks after a tummy tuck to allow for proper healing. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines on when it is safe to gradually resume exercise and physical activities. Full activity and exercise may resume approximately six to eight weeks after surgery.

Following a tummy tuck, you should avoid lifting any heavy objects, including children, for several weeks.  Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines on when it is safe to resume normal daily activities.

Following a tummy tuck, it is normal to experience tightness and discomfort in the abdominal area. However, moving around mildly should not cause any harm to the treated area, and your surgeon will provide specific guidelines on which movements to avoid.

Pregnancies after tummy tuck surgeries are generally well-tolerated, but subsequent pregnancies can impact the results of the surgery. It is recommended to discuss any future plans for pregnancy with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure.

 While patients may experience pain and discomfort during the initial recovery phase, pain management techniques are available to help minimize discomfort. Long-acting numbing medication (e.g. Exparel) may be used to improve your pain for the first 72 hours. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines for post-operative pain management.

In most tummy tuck procedures, the original belly button is preserved and repositioned for optimal cosmetic results.

Recreating the belly button involves making a small incision around the belly button to release it from the surrounding tissues. The excess skin and fat from the abdomen is removed and a small hole is created in the abdominal skin. The belly button remains attached to the underlying muscles and is then delivered through this new “button hole”.

The planning process for a tummy tuck procedure can take several days or weeks, depending on the complexity of the case. Your surgeon will guide you through every step of the process and provide specific timelines based on your unique needs.

The duration of the tummy tuck procedure depends on the extent of the surgery, but it typically takes several hours. Recovery time varies from patient to patient and is dependent on many factors, but generally takes an average of 2-4 weeks. Most patients take 1-4 weeks off work.

When choosing a tummy tuck surgeon, it is important to consider their qualifications, credentials, and experience in performing the procedure. Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals, ask questions, and determine whether the surgeon is the right fit for you.

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