ABDOMINOPLASTY (Tummy Tuck)

You may consider a tummy tuck…

• If you have excess or sagging abdominal skin usually due to weight loss or pregnancy.
  
• If you have excess fatty tissue that is concentrated in your abdomen
  
• If your abdominal muscles are separated and weakened usually due to pregnancy
  

A tummy tuck will remove subcutaneous fat and excess skin, tighten muscles and create a flatter and fitter looking midsection.

Your Surgery

Your surgery is performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis however many patients choose to spend their first night in the surgical facility. Operation time is usually from 2-5 hours depending on how extensive the surgery is. Following surgery you will wear a light compression garment. Discomfort is easily controlled with oral medication. You may experience swelling, soreness, numbness of abdominal skin, bruising and tiredness for several weeks. Most patients are able to return to most normal activities within 2 to 4 weeks.

An additional procedure that may enhance your results includes Liposuction. It should be noted however that for your safety Dr. Bennett does not generally perform these two procedures on the abdomen at the same time.

Your Consultation

We invite you to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Bennett or one of our nurse coordinators. During the consultation all aspects of your proposed surgery will be discussed including preparation, relative risks, recovery, range of fees, and financing options. We gladly schedule from one to two hours for your consultation. We encourage you to ask questions and express your needs and concerns in a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere.

After Surgery
Immediately following surgery, the incisions are dressed with bandages to keep the skin in place. A tube may be inserted to drain any excess fluid that has collected. Patients may experience some swelling and discomfort, although your doctor can prescribe medication to alleviate these symptoms. Stitches are usually removed five to ten days following surgery, although deeper sutures may take up to three weeks. The specifics of each procedure, as well as duration of hospitalization and type of anesthesia (general or local), will vary among individuals.

Health Concerns
As with any cosmetic surgical procedure, complications are rare, but include infection and blood clotting. In the event of a postoperative infection, your doctor can prescribe antibiotics. Blood clotting is best avoided by moderate exercise, which strengthens muscles and maintains blood circulation. Scarring may be pronounced in the first six months, but gradually flattens and becomes virtually undetectable within a year. To avoid excessive scarring and poor healing, smokers are advised to stop at least three months prior to and for about two months following the procedure. Patients typically return to work within two to four weeks. To maximize the success of surgery and minimize the risk of complications, always follow your doctor's instructions for surgical preparation and postoperative care.

Body Contouring (Liposuction)
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Arm Lift
Thigh/Buttock Lift

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