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What You Need to Know About a Tummy Tuck

You should not consider a tummy tuck until you understand a few important details about the procedure! Despite being a well-known surgery, an abdominoplasty is not as straightforward as some people think. Below, we’re going to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about a tummy tuck so that you have a full understanding of how they really work.

How long does a tummy tuck last?

Results from a tummy tuck are considered permanent. This is because any changes made during surgery, such as removing fat or trimming and tightening skin, do not reverse. The fat and skin will not come back. However, patients should understand that their bodies will still change over time. A tummy tuck cannot make you immune to the aging process, so you should still expect some gradual changes over the years as the body ages. Similarly, weight gain due to poor diet and exercise habits can change the appearance and interfere with your tummy tuck results. Patients who make it a priority to eat healthy, exercise regularly and maintain their overall health can expect their tummy tuck results to last a lifetime.

What are the dangers of a tummy tuck?

Tummy tucks carry many of the same risks that are present in any major surgery. These risks include:

  • Poor wound healing and scarring
  • Tissue damage
  • Changes in sensation
  • Infection
  • Adverse effects from anesthesia

At the Body Sculpting Center, Dr. Philpott takes great care to discuss the details of surgery with patients and identify any potential risk factors. Furthermore, his surgical skill and experience helps to minimize these risks as much as possible. Our team has performed many successful tummy tuck surgeries without any adverse effects.

What exactly is done during a tummy tuck?

During a tummy tuck, incisions are made to provide access to the skin, fat and muscles in and around the abdominal region. Typically, these incisions are made just below the waistline, where any scarring will be hidden by swimwear/underwear. Occasionally, an incision may also be made in the belly button. Through these incisions, fat and excess skin will be removed. The abdominal muscles will also be tightened to produce a firmer stomach and improve muscle definition. Once these steps are completed, the skin will be tightened and sutured together at the incision to finalize the procedure.

How much is removed in a tummy tuck?

There is not a specific amount removed during a tummy tuck surgery, as the amount will vary depending on the patient and their treatment goals. Generally, most patients experience several pounds of weight loss after a tummy tuck due to the removal of skin and fat. However, we encourage patients to consider the visual improvements rather than the numerical weight loss. This is because a tummy tuck removes both skin and fat, and the noticeable improvements to the shape of the body may not be accurately reflected by a number on the scale. Regardless, we always strive to help patients accomplish their tummy tuck goals, and develop a personalized treatment plan for each patient in order to do so.

If you’re considering a tummy tuck or would like to learn more about the procedure, contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Philpott of The Body Sculpting Center.



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