Image
ATALLA PLASTIC SURGERY

Abdominoplasty
[tummy tuck]

BOWLING GREEN, KY

Abdominoplasty
aka Tummy Tuck

A flat and well-toned abdomen is something many of us strive for through exercise and weight control. Sometimes these methods cannot achieve our goals.

Even individuals of otherwise normal body weight and proportion can develop an abdomen that protrudes or is loose and sagging.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

Abdominoplasty, also known as the tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure used to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tighten and strengthen the abdominal muscles. It’s often the perfect procedure for those struggling with sagging skin and weakened muscles due to pregnancy or significant weight loss.

Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

Some of the benefits you can look forward to with a tummy tuck include:

  • Flatter stomach
  • Boost in confidence
  • May reduce back pain and improve posture
  • Strengthened core muscles
  • Improve your body image
  • Long-lasting results

Before and After Photos

Look at the amazing results Dr. Atalla and Dr. Durnen can achieve! With their years of experience and high level of skill, they can help you see results like these.

Good Candidates for Tummy Tuck

Ideal candidates for tummy tucks are men and women who are at a stable weight but bothered by excess skin and fat and weak abdominal muscles. Individuals should also be in generally good health, have realistic expectations, be nonsmokers, and be committed to a healthy lifestyle.

Tummy Tuck Options

At Atalla Plastic Surgery, we offer mini tummy tucks and traditional tummy tucks.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck is less invasive than the traditional or extended tummy tuck and targets the area below the belly button, removing excess skin and strengthening the muscles in the lower abdomen.

Traditional Tummy Tuck

A traditional tummy tuck is the most common type of tummy tuck and addresses excess skin and weakened and/or separated abdominal muscles in the upper and lower abdomen. ,

Tummy Tuck Alternatives

Liposuction

If you’re struggling with excess fat that won’t go away no matter how much you diet and exercise, liposuction is likely a better procedure. While a tummy tuck can remove some fat, it’s not meant to remove substantial amounts of fat. With liposuction, your doctor will make an incision in the abdominal area, loosen up the fat, and then suction it out with a vacuum.

Body Contouring

Looking for a nonsurgical option? Body contouring is a great alternative to liposuction and a tummy tuck. At Atalla Plastic Surgery, we offer a few different body contouring options, including Renuvion, Morpheus8 Body, and Emsculpt Neo.

Preparing for Tummy Tuck

To prepare for your tummy tuck, you’ll first need to have a consultation with Dr. Atalla or Dr. Durnen. Once they review your medical history and perform an exam, they’ll let you know what to do prior to your surgery.

 

You’ll need to avoid smoking, alcohol, and blood thinners for at least a month before your tummy tuck. You’ll also want to stick to a healthy diet and arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery.

Tummy Tuck Procedure

On the day of surgery, we’ll start by administering general anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. From there, Dr. Atalla or Dr. Durnen will make incisions in the abdominal area. The type of incisions used and how long they are will depend on the type of tummy tuck you’re having done. They will then remove excess skin and fat, reshape the remaining tissue, and tighten and strengthen the abdominal muscles. The incisions will then be closed, and you’ll be ready to start the recovery process.

Results of Tummy Tuck

After your tummy tuck, you will have swelling and bruising that will hide some of the results, but you should be able to see some improvements immediately after surgery. Improvements will continue as you heal and your swelling goes down.

 

Depending on the type of tummy tuck you have done, results will take anywhere from six months to a year.

 

To ensure optimal results, you’ll want to take 1-2 weeks off work and avoid strenuous activities for 5-6 weeks.

Risks of Tummy Tuck

As with any surgery, a tummy tuck comes with the chance for risks and complications, including:

 

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Swelling
  • Fluid accumulation
  • Changes in skin sensation
  • Scarring

Tummy Tuck Combination Procedures

Breast Lift

A breast lift with a tummy tuck can give a whole body transformation. If you’re struggling with excess skin around your abdomen and sagging breasts, combining these two procedures ensures you only have to go through one recovery period, and the results afterward will be outstanding.

Mommy Makeover

Many patients include a tummy tuck in their mommy makeover. What’s a mommy makeover? It’s a combination of procedures used to help patients get back their pre-baby body. It can include breast augmentation, tummy tuck, liposuction, breast lift, and more.

 

Cost of Tummy Tuck

The cost of a tummy tuck can depend on a variety of factors, including the extent of the procedure and the results you’re looking for.

What to Expect From Tummy Tuck Consultation

At your tummy tuck consultation, Dr. Atalla or Dr. Durnen will go over your medical history, perform an exam, and discuss your goals. This is the perfect time to bring up questions or concerns. They’ll also go through each step of the surgical procedure, so you know what to expect.

 

Ready to achieve a flatter, toned stomach? Our team at Atalla Plastic Surgery is here to help you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation today by calling our Bowling Green office or using our online contact form.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION
VIEW ABDOMINOPLASTY BEFORE + AFTERS

Are tummy tucks dangerous?

Like any surgical procedure, a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) carries certain risks and potential complications. Possible risks with a tummy tuck, as well as your health history, will be reviewed with you at your consultation, and again with the anesthesiologist prior to your procedure.

Does a tummy tuck tighten muscles?

Yes, a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) involves tightening the abdominal muscles as part of the procedure. This is one of the key components of the surgery, especially for individuals who have experienced stretching or separation of the abdominal muscles due to factors such as pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations.

How long after a tummy tuck can you drink?

Drinking regular liquid such as water, carbonated beverages can be done immediately after surgery. It is essential to stay hydrated during the recovery process by drinking plenty of water. Proper hydration supports healing and can help minimize swelling and discomfort.

How long is pain after tummy tuck?

The duration and intensity of pain after a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) can vary from person to person, depending on factors such as individual pain tolerance, the extent of the surgery, and how well the body responds to the procedure.

Do you have to be skinny to get a tummy tuck?

You don't necessarily have to be skinny to be eligible for a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), but there are certain criteria that surgeons may consider when determining if someone is a suitable candidate for the procedure.

How long do tummy tucks last?

The longevity of the results from a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) can vary depending on individual characteristics and lifestyle factors. While a tummy tuck can provide long-lasting improvements in abdominal contour, it's important to understand that the aging process and other factors can affect the results over time.

How long do you wear a binder after surgery?

An abdominal binder is recommended to be worn for several weeks after surgery. The purpose of wearing a binder after tummy tuck surgery is to support the healing process, reduce swelling, and optimize the aesthetic outcomes of the procedure. It is important to follow your recommendations and wearing the binder as instructed in order to help ensure a smooth and successful recovery from tummy tuck surgery.

Can I walk after tummy tuck?

Yes, walking is typically encouraged after a tummy tuck surgery, although the extent and intensity of activity may vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific instructions provided by your surgeon.

Do men get tummy tuck?

Yes, men can and do undergo tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty). While cosmetic procedures have traditionally been more popular among women, the number of men seeking cosmetic surgery, including tummy tucks, has been increasing in recent years.

Do tummy tucks work?

Yes, tummy tucks, also known as abdominoplasty, can be highly effective in achieving specific cosmetic goals related to the appearance of the abdomen. A tummy tuck will remove excess skin/fat, tightens abdominal muscles, improved abdominal contour, and enhanced self-confidence.

What do you eat after tummy tuck?

There are no eating restrictions after a tummy tuck procedure; you can return to a normal diet. It is encouraged to focus on eating a balanced and nutritious diet that supports healing, promotes overall health, and helps you feel your best during the recovery process after tummy tuck surgery.

When can I wear regular clothes after tummy tuck?

Typically lose fitting clothing is recommended for the first few weeks. It's important to avoid wearing tight or restrictive clothing, such as tight jeans, belts, or waistbands, for several weeks after tummy tuck surgery. These types of clothing can put pressure on the surgical incisions and the abdominal area, potentially causing discomfort, swelling, or complications. Typically, around four weeks a patient can gradually return to regular clothing, depending on the patient’s preference and comfort.

Can a tummy tuck cause stomach issues?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, primarily involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightening the abdominal muscles. While it is not common for a tummy tuck to directly cause stomach issues, there are some potential concerns related to the procedure that could indirectly affect digestive health:

Can you get pregnant after tummy tuck?

Getting pregnant after a tummy tuck is possible. It's essential to discuss your future pregnancy plans with your plastic surgeon and obstetrician to ensure that you receive appropriate guidance.

Can you lose weight after tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is not intended as a weight loss procedure. Its primary goal is to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and tighten the abdominal muscles to achieve a smoother, firmer abdominal contour. However, some individuals may experience a slight reduction in weight after a tummy tuck due to the removal of excess tissue.

How do I prepare for a tummy tuck?

To begin to prepare for a tummy tuck, we recommend a BMI of 20 or below, non-smoking (vaping), and finished with having children. The next step would be to undergo a consultation with a plastic surgeon and their nursing team to discuss the procedure, recovery/downtime, and pricing. At the time of your consultation, our team will answer any questions on how to prepare for the procedure will be discussed fully at your consultation.

What is the best girdle to wear after a tummy tuck?

An abdominal binder will be given to you following your tummy tuck surgery. Compression garments after that are determined by the individual’s preference. Compression garments play an essential role in the recovery process by providing support to the surgical site, reducing swelling, and promoting proper healing. Our team is here to help make recommendations on types of compression garments that may be best.

When can I start working out after tummy tuck?

The timing for resuming exercise after a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) varies depending on individual factors, the extent of the surgery, and the recommendations of your surgeon. Exercise is an important part of the recovery process, but it's essential to gradually reintroduce physical activity to avoid complications and promote optimal healing. Most individuals can gradually begin light aerobic exercise/walking within the first 3-6 weeks, this will be determined at the discretion of your surgeon. It is important to avoid high-impact activities until all restrictions have been lifted.

See All