Your Guide to Tummy Tuck Surgery

Tummy tucks are one of the most sought-after and transformative procedures for patients at Temmen Plastic Surgery. After a pregnancy or major weight loss, many women don’t recognize the body they used to have. Loose skin, stretch marks, also known as “tiger stripes”, and lower belly pooch are all common areas of concern.

A tummy tuck is the most common procedure women seek to correct these issues. Applying advanced surgical techniques, tummy tucks deliver life-changing results to patients, reducing sagging skin and fat while crafting an elegant, natural shape. This blog will cover what exactly a tummy tuck is, the procedure, common questions, and the recovery timeline.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a standard procedure where excess skin is removed from the abdomen to tighten the lower stomach. This procedure done alone gives the appearance of a flat stomach from the front, but does not give a patient ample curves from the side. No fat is removed, leaving patients tight and flat- but with no shape.

To help my patients achieve their desired results, I use a lipoabdominoplasty technique. By combining a standard tummy tuck with liposuction, I can shape the physique and create a feminine hourglass shape. It is important to note that a tummy tuck is not a fat loss procedure, but a body contouring one. By utilizing liposuction, I remove fat from unwanted areas such as the back, and contour areas of the body like the trunk. In addition to a narrow waist and full hips, patients can obtain a toned back, abdomen, and fuller trunk if desired.

What happens during a tummy tuck procedure?

Before completing a tummy tuck procedure, we will discuss your aesthetic goals in your consultation, providing realistic expectations for the surgery. In the preoperative appointment, I will take measurements, and create an exact surgical plan tailored to your anatomy and goals. On the day of surgery, I will draw surgical markings before you undergo anesthesia at our surgical center in Tampa, FL.

During surgery, I will first liposuction the lower abdomen or “belly pooch”, as well as the lower back and waist. Patients may also undergo lipoetching, a technique that I utilize to remove the layer of fat on top of the abdomen muscles. Lipoetching carves out and defines the abs, giving the appearance of a toned stomach. These techniques remove unwanted fat from such areas and helps to create a natural, toned hourglass shape.

Following liposuction, I will remove the excess skin in the lower abdomen, preforming a typical “tummy tuck”. This is where the abdominal muscles are further tightened, and a flat stomach is achieved. Additionally, I shape a new bellybutton that compliments the abdomen.

What about the tummy tuck scar?

While many women are concerned with the resulting scar from a tummy tuck procedure, I place the scar in an area that is completely hidden when wearing a two-piece bathing suit or underwear. No patient wants to worry about a large visible scar, and as a female board-certified plastic surgeon I am constantly thinking about scar placement-keeping it low and discreet. The scar is barely longer than a c-section one, and patients can confidently show off their new figure without any worries!

Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?

It is generally advised that patients wait to have a tummy tuck procedure until they are done having kids. Pregnancy stretches the abdominal skin and separates the muscles, thus damaging the surgical results of a “tight” stomach.

How long is the recovery after a tummy tuck?

The first few days following surgery patients will need a caregiver to assist them and drains placed during surgery will be removed no later than day 5. Patients are typically able to return to work and non-strenuous activity after 10-14 days. After 6 weeks, patients can resume normal exercise and activities.

If you are interested in a tummy tuck procedure, please do not hesitate to contact our office and schedule a consultation with Dr. Traci Temmen. Our goal at Temmen Plastic Surgery is not only to create your most confident self, but make you a part of our family.