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America’s interest in plastic surgery is undoubtedly on the rise. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons in 2018, 130,081 tummy tuck surgeries were performed. This is compared to 2000, where only 62,713 abdominoplasty surgeries were performed. This means that the tummy tuck is quickly becoming the procedure of choice for many patients. If you’re contemplating getting a tummy tuck, consider the following points to make your experience the best one possible.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed by a plastic surgeon and their team of experienced health care providers. People often undergo tummy tuck surgery to tighten muscles affected by weight loss and childbirth, as well as to remove fat and skin that is tough to target through diet and exercise alone. This helps reshape and tighten the abdominal area for a rejuvenated and contoured figure.

What kinds of tummy tucks are available?

There are three different types of tummy tucks that surgeons perform: Full, mini, or extended.

Full tummy tuck:

The full (or classic) tummy tuck procedures involve the areas above and below the belly button. A full tummy tuck is the best method to create a natural shape and firm abdomen. To achieve this, your plastic surgeon will create one or two incisions; one U-shaped or horizontal incision is performed right above the pubic area while another incision may be placed around the belly button.

Mini tummy tuck:

A mini tummy tuck involves removing excess skin only under the belly button. It is intended for people who have a smaller area of excess skin and fat. A single, smaller incision is made above the pubic area.

Extended tummy tuck:

In addition to the abdomen, an extended tummy tuck also targets areas around the flanks and hips. This procedure is typically recommended for people who have had multiple pregnancies or have lost significant amounts of weight and now have excess skin. Two incisions are made for this procedure; one longer one above the pubic area that extends out to the hips, as well as one near the belly button.

Preparing for a tummy tuck

Your surgical plan will be unique to you. However, there are some standard preparations for getting a tummy tuck. After your consultation with Dr. Deane, you’ll be given pre-op instructions on how to get ready for a successful procedure and recovery. You may need to temporarily adjust or stop medications you are taking. If you are a smoker, you will need to stop. Finally, you should prepare your home for a recovery period and fill any prescription medications you’ll need for recovery.

What happens during recovery?

Typically, you can expect to feel sore for a week after surgery. The first week should be spent resting. You will need someone to help you with activities of daily living since you will be instructed not to move or strain too much. You will have bandages on your incisions and will wear a compression garment for a specific amount of time during the day to help reduce swelling. You may have drains that allow blood and other fluid to leave the incision site. Your surgeon will discuss pain management options, caring for drains and incision sites, and when it is appropriate to reach out with any concerns.

Schedule a consultation

If you are considering a tummy tuck procedure, then it’s important to find a board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Leland Deane. Dr. Deane will discuss your best options for body contouring and tummy tuck procedures during a consultation at our state-of-the-art office. To schedule a consultation, we invite you to call or office or fill out our online form. Dr. Deane sees patients in Garden City, Babylon, and New York, NY.