Our Service
Tummy Tuck
By DR. Steven warnock
What is a Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a semi-permanent cosmetic surgery that extracts surplus fat and tissue, tightens skin and tones muscles in the abdominal area. It is a highly requested procedure that effectively targets what regular diet and exercise do not always achieve.Â
It is especially helpful for men who retain excess weight in their mid-sections and in women who have undergone multiple pregnancies. Following abdominoplasty, patients can expect a flatter, more contoured and visually satisfying stomach. The results will be fully visible after the initial swelling and bruising subside.
Dr. Warnock’s private practice offers partial tummy tuck for patients without a considerably pronounced abdomen. Alternatively, we recommend a full tummy tuck procedure for those who wish to see more defined results. Both procedures tone and trim your waistline to make you look your best.Â
Keep in mind that major lifestyle changes, such as pregnancy and weight fluctuations, can still affect tummy tuck procedures in the long run.
Full Tummy Tuck
A full abdominoplasty begins with an incision above the pubic area that extends between the hipbones. The surgeon then makes a second incision to separate the navel from the underlying tissue. Next, the skin is separated and pulled up to the level of the ribs. The surgeon pulls the abdominal muscles together and stitches them into position. The navel is then relocated and stitched into place. The surgeon replaces the skin (excess skin is trimmed) and sutures the original incisions. A complete tummy tuck takes between two and five hours and is usually outpatient based.
Mini Tummy Tuck
If fat deposits are limited to the region below the navel, you may only need a partial abdominoplasty (mini-tummy tuck). In this procedure, a smaller incision is made, leaving the navel in place. The surgeon stretches the flap of skin down, removes excess fat and tissue, and stitches the flap back into place. The partial procedure lasts one to two hours and is usually performed on an outpatient basis.
Who Qualifies for a Tummy Tuck Procedure?
A tummy tuck procedure helps men and women have a more toned physical appearance. Nevertheless, it is not a solution for obesity.
Having said that, we recommend the procedure to people who are generally healthy, do not smoke, and have no medical conditions that might complicate the surgery.
Additionally, we advise women who are planning to get pregnant to wait until after childbirth before they go for a tummy tuck.
Allow Us to Make You Feel Good About Yourself
You no longer have to feel self-conscious about a bulging tummy or loose abdominal skin. With our tummy tuck procedure in Salt Lake City, you can achieve the toned stomach that you’ve been dreaming of. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Steve Warnock today.
Tummy Tuck FAQ
You will be quite sore following surgery and will require pain medication for a period of time.You will be required to wear a binder for about 6 weeks following surgery. You will need to keep your incisions dry for a full 24 hours after surgery. You will be allowed to shower after your first follow-up visit.
The procedure generally takes about two and a half hours. After surgery, you will be in recovery for about an hour, for a total of about three and a half to four hours in our office on the day of the procedure.
You will need to be seen the day following surgery, which will be scheduled in advance. You will also be required to follow up one week, 10-14 days, one month and three months following surgery. Your drains will be removed on your 10-14 day follow-up. On rare occasions, more frequent follow-up visits will be needed. There is no charge for additional follow up visits.
You will be notified the day before surgery of your surgical time. You will need somebody to be with you to drive you home and stay with you for 24 hours following surgery. You will be required to not eat or drink after midnight the day before the surgery. It is best to wear comfortable clothing to our office the day of surgery. The procedure generally takes approximately two and a half hours and you will be in recovery for about one hour after surgery. You will be given prescriptions at your pre-operative appointment that should be filled and available to you following surgery.
Everyone heals differently, but typically you will require two weeks offwork following a tummy tuck procedure. You should not drive for one to two weeks following your surgery. You will be required to not lift anything heavy or do housework for four to six weeks following surgery.After four weeks you will be allowed to do light exercise such as stationary bike, treadmill, walking, and similar activities. Most people are back to normal activity after six weeks.
Depending on the extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it, the incision could extend from hip to hip. It will often be shorter, however.
The best candidates for abdominoplasty are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose skin that will not respond to diet and exercise. Patients who intend to lose a significant amount of weight should postpone the surgery, as should a woman who is planning future pregnancies. Some patients may benefit from an abdominoplasty done in conjunction with limited liposuction of the hips to create a better body contour, though in other cases liposuction alone will create the best result. Liposuction of the thighs cannot be done at the same time, as this combination can increase risk for complications.
The price quoted for surgery will include a doctor’s fee, anesthesia, surgical suite and follow-up care as well as any surgical garments that may be needed. Post-operative prescriptions are not included and generally run $175 without health insurance.
An abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen, plus to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. There is also a less complex procedure called a partial abdominoplasty or mini tummy tuck that can be performed if your fat deposits are limited to the area below the navel.
To learn more or schedule tummy tuck surgery, contact our offices today.