Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

An abdominoplasty is commonly known as a “tummy tuck”.

It is a surgical procedure that helps improve the appearance of your abdomen by removing excess fat and skin from your stomach and by tightening the tissues above your muscles. This helps to achieve a flatter and more toned look.

A tummy tuck is considered a major surgery, so it is important that you completely understand your options. You should consult a plastic surgeon who will be able to guide you during the process.

There are several types of tummy tucks.

A mini tummy tuck is suitable for a small number of patients. It does not require repositioning of the umbilicus (belly button) and may or may not involved tightening of the muscles. A smaller scar is used and excess skin below the umbilicus is removed.

The standard or full tummy tuck will also remove excess skin. The scar usually extends from one hip to another. The umbilicus is repositioned and the muscle is tightened.

An extended tummy tuck differs from the standard/full tummy tuck as there is more excision of the skin, especially on the sides towards the lower back. It is most suitable for patients who have had massive weight loss and desire body contouring. The remainder of the procedure is similar the standard/full tummy tuck.

Lipoabdominoplasty is a combination of a full or mini tummy tuck along with extensive liposuction of the tummy and sides. The remainder of the Lipoabdominoplasty procedure is similar to the standard tummy tuck procedure.

A Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck is also similar to the full tummy tuck procedure with an additional vertical scar on the front of the abdomen. It is for those patients who also need a large amount of extra skin removed from the upper and lower abdomen, such as after massive weight loss.

Dr. Henderson will examine you and help determine which procedure will provide you the results you seek. She will then provide you expert treatment and care during the process.

Abdominoplasty or Tummy tuck surgery has a recovery period of between 1-6 weeks, depending on which tummy tuck you receive.

Dr. Raven Henderson performs most tummy tuck surgeries on an outpatient basis without a hospital stay.

There will be dressings and binders. Drains are placed for a few days. The stitches are absorbable. You can also remove the dressings and take a shower on the 5^th day after surgery.