Tummy Tuck

Tummy tucks – known in the medical world as abdominoplasty surgery – are a form of plastic surgery to improve the appearance of the abdominal area. During this procedure, excess fat and skin is removed, and the abdominal muscles are tightened, to make the stomach area appear flatter and more toned.

Is a tummy tuck right for me?

A tummy tuck may be right for you if you're dissatisfied with the appearance of your stomach area due to excess skin or fat. This procedure is particularly popular among West Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens area residents who have been pregnant or recently lost a significant amount of weight, which has left them with hanging skin and excess fat in the stomach area. Ideal candidates are in good overall health, and their weight has been stable over the past year. Those planning future weight loss or pregnancy should consider postponing their surgery, as these events can have a significant impact on the appearance of the abdomen.

How much does abdominoplasty cost?

Abdominoplasty costs average $5,500 to $8,000 in the West Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens area. These costs vary significantly from patient to patient due to wide ranges in the extent of surgical work being performed.

How involved is the tummy tuck procedure?

A tummy tuck is considered to be major abdominal surgery, and is performed with general anesthesia. The procedure usually takes between two and five hours. It requires an incision from hip to hip, enabling the surgeon to access all of the abdominal tissues. This incision is typically made low enough that it can be concealed with pants or underwear. During the surgery, excess fat and skin are removed. The abdominal muscles – which often loosen during pregnancy – can be tightened. Existing tissues are re-contoured to provide a natural-looking result, and the belly button may be repositioned to sit higher on the abdomen. Finally, the incision is closed with sutures.

How long is the recovery after abdominoplasty?

The recovery process after a tummy tuck can take up to a month. In the first week following surgery, the surgical site is covered with gauze and a compression garment. Bed rest is advised for two to three days; after this point, West Palm Beach and Palm Beach Gardens area patients are usually able to gradually begin returning to their normal activity level. Side effects experienced by abdominoplasty patients include bruising, swelling, soreness and discomfort, and a tight or itchy sensation, especially around the incision. Most patients are back to work in three to four weeks, though it can take up to three months for patients to experience complete recovery and for the full results of the surgery to become apparent.

What should I do next?

A tummy tuck may be right for you if you're looking for a way to dramatically improve the appearance of your stomach area. Call Dr. Kapp today at (561) 833-4022 or fill out our online form for your consultation.