The “Tummy Tuck” (Abdominoplasty)
The tummy tuck is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin, tighten abdominal muscles and eliminate or improve the appearance of scars on the abdomen (commonly called the tummy, hence the popular name “tummy tuck”).
Has pregnancy caused your abdominal skin and muscles to become flabby? Do you feel as if your tummy is hanging down to your toes? Has excessive weight loss followed by weight gain followed by weight loss left a layer of loose extra skin and stretched out, thin muscles? Then take the next step and call Dr. DeChiara at (914) 428-8881 today to learn how abdominoplasty can give you a flatter, more defined stomach.
Weak stomach muscles and extra fatty tissue could be contributing to your bad posture and causing potential back problems. Abdominoplasty is designed to help correct these situations.
People who have had major weight loss and post bariatric surgery can benefit greatly from a tummy tuck procedure. Folds and pockets of excess skin can be removed, and remaining tissue and muscle can be contoured by Dr. DeChiara who specializes in procedures for patients in this unique circumstance. It is important to understand right away that a tummy tuck is NOT a weight loss procedure or a substitute for a healthy diet or sensible exercise. Although the procedure removes some fat, it is not an obesity cure. You should be at normal or near-normal weight before undergoing this procedure. Liposuction of the abdomen and other areas are commonly performed with a tummy tuck. The tummy tuck may also be combined with hernia repair.
When you awaken after your abdominoplasty, you most likely will experience some abdominal discomfort when the anesthesia wears off. Your surgeon will give you medication to relieve any discomfort. If you prefer, Dr. DeChiara can place a miniature pain pump at the time of surgery. This allows pain medication to go directly to the area, relieving discomfort and reducing the need for oral pain medication.
If you have had a complete tummy tuck, we will have you stay overnight at Northern Westchester Hospital where you will stay in bed until the next morning. You can expect some pain in the incision, however, this is alleviated with medication and gradually subsides as you begin to walk and move about.
You will receive specific instructions to follow during your recovery including rest and sleeping positions, bathing and showering techniques, and exercises you can perform at home.
Swelling of the abdomen is normal following your tummy tuck. Dr. DeChiara’s abdominoplasty technique utilizes absorbable sutures so you do not need to worry about having any sutures removed. You will find that swelling subsides starting the second week after your tummy tuck, but some lower abdominal fullness persists.
You may expect to see about 50% of your total contour improvement at three weeks and about 75% at one month. It usually takes an additional two weeks for the last of the swelling to recede. Occasionally, individuals may see continued improvement up to six months after a tummy tuck, but changes beyond three months are usually subtle. You will be happiest with your tummy tuck if you understand that it will take several months for the complete results of our ideal new look to be fully visible.
