What is an abdominoplasty or “tummy tuck?” 

In an abdominoplasty, commonly known as a “tummy tuck,” loose skin and excess fatty tissue are both removed from the abdominal area and the remaining skin is sewn back tighter.  In addition, the abdominal wall containing the abdominal muscles is tightened to make the stomach area look flat and tight.

What is the difference between a “mini”, a “full” and an “extended” tummy tuck? 

A mini involves removing skin and tightening the lower abdomen only (below the navel). A full is the most common type of tummy tuck and tightens upper and lower abdominal skin and the entire abdominal wall.  The navel is normally revised. An extended abdominoplasty, or lower body lift, involves removing skin from the abdomen as well as from the back of the waist (the incision goes all the way around the lower torso).  The lower body lift is commonly used to assist patients after major weight loss and also to provide a lift to the bottom and upper thighs.

Who is an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck?

Ideal candidates for tummy tucks are those individuals who cannot achieve the abdominal contour they desire despite diet and exercise.  Normally abdominoplasty is offered to those who are finished having children, are in good medical health, and have a reasonable body weight.  Since abdominoplasty is a contouring and not a weight loss surgery, those who are obese are not ideal candidates.

“Normally abdominoplasty is offered to those who are finished having children, are in good medical health, and have a reasonable body weight.”

How long is the recovery time for a tummy tuck?

Recovery time for a tummy tuck can be as little as one week for a mini-abdominoplasty but can be as long as two to four weeks for the full or extended abdominoplasty.

Do the results of a tummy tuck last?

The contour change in the abdomen after surgery is permanent. 

Dr. Denton Watumull has been named one of the best plastic surgeons in Dallas by D Magazine four times and has appeared in Texas Monthly five times as one of the Super Docs in Texas. For more information about Dr. Watumull and his practice, Regional Plastic Surgery Center & Spa, please visit www.create-beauty.com.