Why would I need/want this service?
If you have been unable to achieve a flat and firm tummy from fitness and weight control efforts, wish to lose sagging skin that has developed due to age or childbirth, and want a long-lasting solution to increase your self-confidence, a tummy tuck may be right for you. Candidates should be physically healthy, maintain a stable weight, and should not smoke.
Why should I consider surgery?
If you are looking to regain a flat and firm tummy, lose sagging skin due to age or childbirth, and want a long-lasting solution to increase your self-confidence, a tummy tuck may be right for you. There are other treatments on the market, but other procedures like liposuction only reduce fat, and do not remove excess skin or repair the abdominal wall.
What to expect if I get this done?
The final results of tummy tuck surgery will be visible within a couple weeks of the procedure, as you will initially experience swelling and be unable to stand fully upright as internal healing occurs. Once fully healed, you will have a flatter, firmer abdominal contour that is well proportioned to the rest of your body. The scar from the procedure may take up to a year to fade to the extent possible; it also may incorporate existing scars if you have had a previous Caesarian section.
What should I expect before my procedure?
A consultation with one of our surgeons will be the best way to determine if you are a candidate for a tummy tuck and what steps you will need to take prior to surgery. You will get to review before and after pictures of other patients with similar body types to get an idea of what your result may look like. The surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia and typically takes up to three hours.
What should I expect after my surgery?
Your abdominal area will be covered in dressings or bandages and may also be wrapped in an elastic bandage or compression garment to minimize swelling. A slim tube may be placed under the skin to provide temporary drainage of any excess blood or fluid. You will receive instructions to follow at home and prescriptions for medication, and schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon. You should expect to keep your support garments on per your surgeon’s instruction, and limit activity. You may experience acute pain for up to five days and will have residual swelling for a few weeks. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully.
What if I’m not ready for surgery?
If you feel a surgical intervention isn’t for you at this time, we offer a range of injectables, fillers, laser treatments and skin care treatments that are easy and non-invasive. For less invasive procedures, we also offer CoolSculpting. See out non-surgical services.
Can this be combined with other procedures?
Yes! Commonly called a “mommy makeover,” tailored packages that are combined with a tummy tuck include body contouring on the arms, legs, and buttocks, which can include fat grafts. Additionally, others may choose liposuction for certain areas or breast augmentation to a face or neck lift. These can be done at the same time. Please consult with one our surgeons to determine the best approach for you.
Additionally, these procedures can be done at the same time as medically indicated procedures, like gynecological procedures, so that you only need to have one procedure with less recovery time than if performed separately. We can work with your UTMB surgeon to ensure a streamlined process and you receive the best care possible.
Is an overnight stay offered?
Unique to UTMB, an overnight stay in our modern, state-of-the-art hospitals is an option that many other surgeons do not offer. An overnight stay can be added for an additional fee and can alleviate the need for transportation and hotel arrangements immediately after your procedure. Additionally, you will have trained nursing and medical staff watching over you the first night and will watch to ensure that drains are functioning, help change dressings and any pain or discomfort is professionally managed.