Tummy tuck surgery is also known as abdominoplasty. This procedure removes excess fat and skin, restores weakened abdominal muscles and creates a smoother and firmer abdominal appearance. A tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure in which excess skin is removed and underlying tissues are tightened. The goal of a tummy tuck is to give a smooth, toned and flat abdominal region

Tummy Tuck Explained. Dr. Ennis answers Common Patient Questions.

To learn about abdominoplasty, please read the guide below or contact Ennis Plastic Surgery at 561-405-9020 to book a breast augmentation consultation or ask us a question. We are here to help you get the look you desire.

Why Tummy Tuck

A flat and toned midsection is a physical feature desired by people around the world. Unfortunately, this can be very difficult to achieve, despite extensive diet, exercise and good health. Although a healthy lifestyle including diet and exercise plays a great role in the appearance of the midsection, genetics, life experiences, aging and weight fluctuations can have a negative effect.

Video: Dr. Ennis details tummy tuck recovery

About the Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Surgical Procedure

The tummy tuck begins with an incision along the bikini line. This incision serves to access and excise soft tissues, while being located in a region so that the incision can be easily hidden under clothing, undergarments, or a bathing suit. The incision runs horizontally and the length will be determined by the amount of skin that needs to be removed*. Some individuals require a second incision around the navel to removed* excess skin in the upper abdominal region.

Once the abdominal skin is lifted, sutures are placed to strengthen and tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. The surgeon creates an internal corset to provide strength and definition to the abdominal wall. Excess, hanging skin is removed completely, eliminating the sagging tissues that were over the midsection. Then, the skin is pulled down to meet the bikini line incision and sutures create a tightened and toned look.

It is often necessary to reposition the belly button, so that the abdominal proportions are maintained. A new opening for the belly button is created and the belly button is sutured into position. If the shape of the belly button has been altered (something that often happens after pregnancy), the surgeon will correct for a pleasing appearance.

What to Expect During and After Tummy Tuck Surgery

Generally, a tummy tuck procedure takes 3-4 hours to complete. The patient is placed under general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety throughout the procedure. Bandages and gauze dressings will be applied over the incisions to protect healing. In addition, oftentimes patients are wrapped in elastic bandages or compression garments to decrease swelling and provide support for the abdominal musculature as they heal. The surgeon may place small drainage tubes to remove any excess blood and fluid from the area.

The tummy tuck requires a few weeks of recovery, with ongoing follow-up appointments to monitor healing along the way. Due to the extent of surgery involved in a tummy tuck, pain should be expected for the first several days. The surgical team will provide instruction for medication management and surgical healing.

The tummy tuck begins with a thorough consultation with the plastic surgeon, in which patients have the opportunity to discuss questions, concerns and expected outcomes. One should note that individuals who are planning future pregnancies or expecting substantial weight loss, would be wise to postpone the procedure for a future date. It is advised that a tummy tuck procedure be performed after all pregnancies are completed and after weight loss has already been achieved. Additionally, a tummy tuck will not remove individual stretch marks. However, if the area of skin to be removed is covered in stretch marks, then these stretch marks are removed* along with that area of skin.

Many individuals choose to undergo a tummy tuck in combination with another procedure, such as liposuction or as part of a Mommy Makeover procedure. These options can be discussed with the surgeon during the consultation.

Whatever your reason for undergoing a tummy tuck, the clinical staff of Ennis Plastic Surgery will skillfully and compassionately guide you along the way. Our surgeon has perfected techniques that promote excellent outcomes. All patients receive personal attention and personalized treatment plans for an exceptional experience every step of the way.