What to Expect Before, During, and After Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

A tummy tuck, medically referred to as an abdominoplasty, is a procedure that helps to smooth and flatten the abdomen by removing excess skin and fatty deposits and repairing any damaged abdominal muscles.

Before a Tummy Tuck Procedure

As with most cosmetic surgery procedures, your first step in getting an abdominoplasty is to consult with a qualified cosmetic surgeon. He or she will evaluate your body to determine if a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is the right choice of surgery for you, and whether you will require other body contouring procedures such as liposuction to achieve your desired results.

In the weeks prior to your tummy tuck procedure, you will be advised by your doctor to stop taking any products that can thin your blood such as aspirin, ibuprofen and alcohol. You will also be advised to quit smoking as nicotine consumption can cause complications to surgery.

During a Tummy Tuck Procedure

An abdominoplasty can be performed using a local or a general anesthesia. The type of anesthesia that is used will be discussed with you at length during your consultation. Once you are given the anesthesia and it has taken affect, your cosmetic surgeon will begin the treatment.

The length of the procedure will vary depending on the extent of the surgery. A complete tummy tuck can take from four to six hours to complete, while a mini tummy tuck may only take two to three. In some cases where there is extreme fat build up, liposuction may also be performed during your surgery to help further smooth and contour the abdomen.

After Tummy Tuck Surgery

Once the surgery is complete, the cosmetic surgeon will close the incisions either by stitches or sutures. You will be provided with detailed instructions on how to care for your incision site which must be followed to prevent complications form occurring.

You may be expected to remain in the hospital for a day or two after your surgery to ensure there are no problems. Generally however, you will be able to return home within a few hours after treatment. You will likely be directed to stay in bed for a few days, and only perform light tasks for the first few weeks. Full recovery from a tummy tuck may take a few months.