Tummy Tuck
Before and After Photos
Are you interested in a tummy tuck?
Abdominoplasty, often called a "tummy tuck," is a surgical procedure used to enhance abdominal contour
for a number of reasons:
- To reduce a roll of fat and skin in the lower and middle abdomen.
- To correct a diastases or separation of the abdominal muscles after pregnancy.
By excising a wide wedge of skin and fat, tightening of abdominal muscles, and relocating the
umbilicus, a prominent abdomen can be flattened.
Planning your surgery
The way you feel about yourself is important. You spend a lot of time and effort keeping in shape;
sometimes we can help to give the contour and shape that is right for you. At your consultation we
will listen to your medical history, examine you, take photographs, and try to give you a look at
what a reduction in abdominal tissues would do for you. We will evaluate your health and explain
which surgical techniques are most appropriate for you, based on the condition of your muscles and
the location of skin excess and fat. The location of the incision can be adjusted to be concealed
beneath a variety of garments.
If the skin and fat excess is in the lower abdominal area and the muscles are in good shape,
a modified abdominoplasty may be suggested. Associated procedures include a change in breast shape and
liposuction. Many of the women who are good candidates for abdominoplasty are troubled by heavy or
drooping breasts, or troublesome areas of persistent fat, and a combined approach is utilized. At the
end of the initial consultation you should have the information you need to make an informed decision
about the possibility of plastic surgery.
Preparing for your surgery
We will give you instructions to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking,
smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications.
While making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery
and to help you out for a few days, if needed.
Note
Abdominoplasty is relatively straightforward. But as with any operation, there are risks associated with
surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure. At the time of your consultation these
possibilities will be reviewed in detail.
The surgery
Abdominoplasty is a procedure done at our fully accredited operating rooms at the Plastic Surgery Center,
at the Asheville Surgery Center on Sweeten Creek Road, or at the Mission Memorial Hospital. It is usually
an outpatient procedure, often done under general anesthesia. Anesthesia is provided by the
anesthesiologists and CRNA's of Asheville Anesthesia at all of our locations. Occasionally, patients will
stay overnight at the Asheville Surgical Center or the Hospital.
Recovery
The operation takes an hour or two and then requires some quiet time away from your usual schedule as you
recuperate. If a standard abdominoplasty is performed, flex positioning is required and it will be several
days before you will be standing straight. If a modified abdominoplasty is used, the flexed angle is less.
Most women are more comfortable with ice and some elevation, as in a recliner, for the first two or three
days. Even in the flexed position many people are up and about driving and doing light activities in a
seated position four to six days after the operation. You may return to aerobic exercise in about three
weeks. You will be seen in the office in follow up at regular intervals.
We look forward to assisting you in achieving the shape and contour that you desire.
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