Tummy Tuck Overview
Our skilled board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Timothy Mountcastle in Northern Virginia, can eliminate the excess fat and skin while tightening the internal muscles of the abdomen with a tummy tuck.
This can enhance the appearance of the lower abdomen by treating the stubborn “pooch” that is often resistant to diet and exercise. Abdominoplasty allows individuals to have firmer, flatter stomachs, giving them the confidence to wear swimsuits and tighter-fitting clothing. It is popular among women following pregnancy, as well as both men and women after a major weight loss. Candidates considering this surgical procedure should be in good physical health and at or near their goal weight. Patients may also be candidates for a less extensive technique known as a partial abdominoplasty or mini tummy tuck. This procedure is done on patients who may not have as much extra skin and fat in the abdomen. You can learn more about your candidacy, including the cost of the procedure, during a consultation at our practice.
Tummy Tuck Before and After*
See More ResultsTummy Tuck Options
Full Tummy Tuck
A traditional (full) tummy tuck is suitable for both men and women who have a moderate amount of excess skin in their midsection. It is commonly performed on women post-pregnancy. During this surgery, the incision extends from hipbone to hipbone, which grants the surgeon access to a greater portion of the internal structures. Liposuction is used to remove fat and the abdominal muscles are pulled and tightly secured. The belly button is usually repositioned for natural placement.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Individuals Who Are In Relatively Good Shape But Desire A Flatter Tummy May Be Good Candidates For A Mini Tummy Tuck (Known As A “brazilian Tummy Tuck”). These Patients Have Loose Abdominal Fascia, But The Muscles Aren’t Stretched To The Point Where A Full Tummy Tuck Is Necessary. During Surgery, A Smaller Incision Is Made Along The Lower Abdomen, Liposuction Is Used To Remove Excess Fat, And The Remaining Skin Is Pulled Tight. The Belly Button Is Not Affected By This Surgery.
Extended Tummy Tuck
The Extended Tummy Tuck Is Reserved For Patients Who Require Major Skin Tightening And Body Contouring Following A Major Weight Loss. The Extended Tummy Tuck Requires A Longer Incision That Extends Beyond The Hips, As Well As Another One Around The Navel. Liposuction Is Used And The Excess Skin Is Trimmed Away And Tightened. The Belly Button Is Repositioned During This Surgery.
Panniculectomy
Dr. Mountcastle Also Performs A Special Abdominoplasty Procedure For Patients Who Have Lost A Considerable Amount Of Weight, Or Have What Is Referred To As A Hanging “Apron” On The Lower Abdomen. This Typically Consists Of An Excessive Amount Of Skin That Cannot Be Treated With Natural Forms Of Weight Loss. Skin Removal Surgery Of This Nature Is Known As A Panniculectomy. The Hanging Loose Skin, Or “Apron” Is Known As A Pannus. This Is Comprised Of Excess Skin, Adipose Tissue, And Pockets Of Fat. It Tends To Hang Down Over The Genital Area, And Rest On The Thighs In Most Patients. This Condition Can Cause Discomfort And Medical Issues For Individuals, Thus In Many Cases This Surgery Becomes Necessary In Order To Improve One’s Quality Of Life. It’s Important To Also Note That This Particular Surgery Is Often Covered By Medical Insurance. This Depends On The Nature Of The Weight Loss, And The Insurance Guidelines Set Forth By The Patient’s Insurance Plan.
During/After Procedure
A tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility and typically takes around 2 hours to complete. It is considered an outpatient procedure. After surgery, patients will wear a compression garment and will need to rest for the first 48 hours. They should make a concerted effort to move around in order to help promote blood circulation, but should only attempt to initially stand at a 45-degree angle to protect the incision. Pain medication will be provided to help with post-operative pain. Clearance to resume exercise is usually given around 4-6 weeks.
Extended Tummy Tuck
The price for abdominoplasty will vary depending on the technique used, the patient’s condition and aesthetic goals, as well as other factors relating to the surgical case. However, on average, most patients can expect to pay between $7,000-$12,500 for their tummy tuck procedure.
Tummy Tuck FAQs
Do I need a tummy tuck or liposuction?
Patients who have loose skin in the lower abdomen may be better candidates for a skin tightening procedure such as a tummy tuck. If a patient is battling unwanted belly fat, but otherwise has good skin tone, liposuction (which removes fat only) may be all that is needed.
Can a tummy tuck be combined with any other procedure?
Tummy Tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, can be combined with another cosmetic procedure, such as breast augmentation, a breast lift, or liposuction that targets another area of the body. This is sometimes referred to as a “Mommy Makeover” and is considered a common practice, especially where pregnancy, weight gain, and breastfeeding are concerned.
How much scarring will there be after a tummy tuck?
Unfortunately, scarring is a part of this procedure. However, every effort is made to minimize scarring, and the incisions are generally placed in locations easily concealed by undergarments. For women who have had a previous C-Section, the original C-section scar will be replaced with the tummy tuck incision. Most patients feel the physical results of this surgery far outweigh any scarring left behind.
When should I get a tummy tuck?
For optimal results, it is recommended that patients wait to have abdominoplasty until after all pregnancies have been completed. This is to ensure the stretching and weight gain that occurs with pregnancy does not compromise the results of the surgery.
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