Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty

The most common type of abdominoplasty, a full tummy tuck, focuses on the entire abdominal area. Two incisions are necessary; one is made around the belly button, and the other is made along the lower abdomen. The locations of the incisions mean that scarring may not be as easily concealed, but the full tummy tuck can provide more dramatic results. It’s appropriate for many patients, including postpartum women, those who have achieved significant weight loss, and those whose stomach areas have been affected by genetics and aging.

Dr. Cohn will make both incisions in order to remove skin from both the lower and upper abdomen, continuously smoothing and draping the skin against the contours of the stomach. Muscle tightening can occur as necessary.

An extended tummy tuck is a much more intensive procedure that addresses skin sagging not only in the abdominal area but also around the hips. The incision is longer than the full tummy tuck and extends around the hips and potentially onto the patient’s lower back. A second incision around the navel is used to address excess skin in the upper abdomen and to create the appearance of a new belly button.

Dr. Cohn will have greater ability to tighten the skin evenly across the stomach and hips with a large incision. It is necessary if there is a lot of skin that needs to be removed.

Pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. Light activities may be resumed after those first days, but you should still take care not to over-exert yourself. More strenuous activities should be avoided until Dr. Cohn clears you.

Paying attention to your postoperative care instructions is important. Your recovery will be shorter and easier if you carefully follow the instructions given to you after your surgery. You will find that your swelling and bruising will subside more quickly, your incision will heal better, and you lower your risk of infection. Dr. Cohn will also provide instructions regarding pain management and follow-up care.

The size of the scar is directly related to the size of the incision, so your potential scarring is related to the type of tummy tuck procedure you have. A mini tummy tuck is done through a single incision at the bikini line, so your scarring will be minimal and easily concealed should it not fade completely. A traditional tummy tuck includes two incisions, one around the navel and the other in the pelvic area. An extended tummy tuck has an incision that wraps around to the hips as well as an incision around the navel that results in the appearance of a new belly button.

There will be some postoperative discomfort and pain, but this can be managed with medication. In the weeks following your procedure, you may still feel some discomfort, but this will gradually subside. Extreme or concerning pain should be brought to the attention of our office.