A trim and toned stomach creates a visual impression of health and vitality. But as the years pass, keeping a flat and toned belly isn’t always easy. That’s where a tummy tuck can really help, restoring a more youthful, fit, and trim abdominal profile that makes you feel more confident in your own skin.
Abdominoplasty is an area of specialty at Carl N. Williams, Jr. M.D. Hand and Plastic Surgery, and our team has helped many men and women achieve a shapely and gorgeous abdomen. If this is something you’ve been thinking about for a while, let us help you explore how this procedure works and what the likely outcome might be.
Abdominoplasty is the medical term for a tummy tuck. It’s a surgical procedure that improves the appearance and contouring of the abdomen, and is a popular cosmetic treatment for both women and men.
The purpose of abdominoplasty is to remove excess fat and skin from the abdomen. If your abdominal muscles have separated, a tummy tuck can repair that damage and tighten your muscles.
There are a number of different ways to approach abdominoplasty. A less invasive option known as a mini tummy tuck is a good fit for people who only need minor alterations in their abdominal region. It’s also possible to address excess skin and fat where “love handles” develop.
People who’ve lost a significant amount of weight often benefit from a surgical technique that uses both vertical and horizontal incisions to access the underlying tissues and remove a larger volume of skin and fat.
Dr. Williams has extensive experience in abdominoplasty and the relevant surgical techniques. He can assess your body both before and during the procedure to determine the best possible approach.
Abdominoplasty is a major surgery, using general anesthesia. You aren’t conscious during the procedure, and you won’t remember the steps taken during your abdominoplasty, so we briefly explain them here.
Once you’re unconscious, Dr. Williams uses a scalpel to create an incision in your abdomen, either hip to hip or in the area between your belly button and the top of your pubic line. He then carefully lifts your abdominal skin to access the underlying muscle and fat.
Your belly button remains attached throughout the procedure. Dr. Williams uses a special suturing technique to tighten the muscles in your abdomen. He cuts away excess skin, and he might use liposuction to remove excess fat in the area.
Once he’s happy with your new abdominal contouring, Dr. Williams repositions your belly button, suturing it into place. He closes the abdominal incision with drainage tubes in place as needed to allow excess fluid to drain in the early healing stage.
As mentioned, abdominoplasty is a major surgical procedure. Because a tummy tuck alters so many tissues, it should come as no surprise that your body needs time to adjust and heal.
Be prepared to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous physical activity for up to a couple of months after your procedure. You can resume some activities within a couple of weeks, but avoid overtaxing your body as it heals to ensure the best possible results. Our team provides instructions in detail following your surgery.
Some initial soreness and swelling are normal in the days and weeks following abdominoplasty. Dr. Williams discusses pain management techniques with you prior to your procedure.
While you’ll see improvements in your abdominal profile as soon as the initial swelling fades, it can take up to a year for the full results to develop. Be patient as your body goes through the process.
You can support your results through embracing a healthy diet and performing abdominal exercises, but be sure to get clearance from Dr. Williams before resuming or beginning a fitness plan.
If you’ve been considering a tummy tuck for some time, it’s normal to have questions and concerns about the process. We encourage you to set up a time to come in and sit down with Dr. Williams to discuss how abdominoplasty could work for you.
You’re always welcome to give us a call to book your visit. We look forward to meeting with you at Carl N. Williams, Jr. M.D. Hand and Plastic Surgery to discuss how abdominoplasty aligns with your needs and goals.
