Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Performed by Dr. Elliott in Atlanta GA
Board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Franklyn Elliott performs tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening abdominal muscles that may have separated due to post-weight loss or during pregnancy. Other common reasons that patients desire abdominoplasty are hereditary appearances, prior surgeries, and aging.
For maximum patient comfort, various forms of sedation or anesthetic may be administered prior to surgery. A horizontal incision, which varies in size based on the patient, will be made below the navel where weakened abdominal muscles are mended and sutured while excess fat, tissue and skin are eliminated.
Tummy tuck is most often requested from patients who have had children due to its highly revered results. It is often incorporated into mommy makeover surgery, which can include breast augmentation, breast lift, and liposuction for total body rejuvenation. For patients who have had a C-section, Dr. Elliott can use the existing scar to access the abdominal tissue and eliminate the need for additional scarring. For patients without a scar, Dr. Elliott creates an incision below the belt line where it is easily concealed.
Depending on the amount of skin that will need to be removed, not all patients will require a full tummy tuck and can rely on a mini tummy tuck to provide optimal results, based on your unique needs. The mini tummy tuck uses a shorter incision to benefit patients with isolated cosmetic concerns. Mini tummy tucks may not require muscle repair and may not require liposuction depending of the locality and amount of excess, undesired abdominal fat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a good candidate for tummy tuck?
Patients should always have realistic expectations and a positive outlook prior to undergoing surgery. Tummy tucks are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, tummy tucks cannot correct stretch marks caused by weight gain or pregnancy, but if they occur on areas to be excised from the tummy tuck, they may be reduced in appearance. For optimal results and minimized risks, candidates should be non-smoking, in good health, and within range of their pre-surgery weight loss and maintenance goals.
What should I anticipate during my tummy tuck consultation?
During your consultation for tummy tuck, Dr. Elliott will discuss your goals and the procedure as a whole. He will then evaluate pre-existing health conditions, possible risks and your overall health before discussing the common outcomes of tummy tuck surgery and ensuring you have realistic and attainable expectations. Additionally, Dr. Elliott will address any questions or concerns you may have to make sure you are fully educated on the procedure process and what to expect before, during, and after your procedure.
What can I expect during my tummy tuck recovery?
Generally, tummy tuck recovery requires between two and four weeks to heal and allow patients return to almost all activities. However, swelling can take a few months to completely go away. After your recovery, you can expect to see a much flatter, more contoured abdominal region. During your post-operative follow-up with Dr. Elliott, you will discuss when it is safe to resume normal activity as well as review other recovery questions based on your individual needs and lifestyle.
