A full tummy tuck removes excess tissue around the abdomen and restores weakened or separated muscles (called a rectus diastasis) to create a flat stomach profile. It is performed by making a horizontal incision above the pubic hairline so it can be hidden by bathing suits and underwear. The incision allows for abdominal muscle repair and liposuction of excess fat and skin removal. Sometimes more extensive removal of excess skin is done through an incision around the navel. The procedure is different than liposuction and delivers a different result. Tummy tucks tend to give a flatter result. Liposuction may be performed during the tuck, sometimes around the waist and back, for further contouring.
Risks Scarring, wound separation, asymmetrical results, loose skin, death of some subcutaneous fat cells (fat necrosis) and blood clots. Risks are low overall.
Recovery Of all cosmetic surgical procedures, abdominoplasty requires the longest recovery. However, the Pain-buster has made a huge improvement in the recovery by decreasing pain, says Dr. Chris Saunders. Some sort of compression garment or girdle is needed around the tummy for muscular support after surgery. A drain my be necessary post-op to remove excess blood or fluid.
Cost $3,000 to $8,000
