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Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)


If you have been unsuccessful in your attempts to lose the excess fat and skin around your midsection, abdominoplasty may be right for you. Abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck, is a body contouring procedure that removes skin and fat from the middle to lower abdomen and tightens the abdominal muscles for a sleeker, more defined appearance. An abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) at The Aesthetic Surgery Centre is considered a major surgery, so it is important that you discuss all of your questions and concerns with Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani during your private consultation. A tummy tuck procedure can also address excess fat that you may be having trouble getting rid of through dieting and exercise, ultimately giving you a flatter, more toned-look in the abdomen.

Please contact our experienced plastic surgeon at The Aesthetic Surgery Centre for more information, or to schedule a consultation.

"I feel so much better about myself and I am enjoying my new flat tummy. I can now wear low rise jeans... it's awesome!! Dr. Jon, the surgical crew and administrative staff are top notch."

-Winter Park, FL
*Individual Results May Vary

Key Tummy Tuck Terms to Know

If you’re considering any cosmetic procedure, the importance of patient education is not to be understated. On top of learning the benefits, limitations, anticipated results, and risks of a tummy tuck, familiarizing yourself with the following key terms can also help you become well-informed regarding the facts of tummy tuck surgery:

  • Pannus: The pannus is an “envelope” of loose, hanging skin and fatty tissue on the abdomen. This apron of excess tissue can descend below the genitals and cause issues such as skin chafing, irritation, and poor hygiene. There are several procedures that can remove the pannus depending on your reasons for surgery, including a tummy tuck and a panniculectomy.
  • Skin laxity: “Laxity” refers to the quality of the skin and indicates a loose or crepey texture. Skin laxity is commonly observed on the abdomen, particularly for patients who have undergone pregnancy, breastfeeding, and significant weight loss.
  • Stretch marks: Stretch marks are indented streaks on the skin typically resulting from pregnancy and rapid weight changes. While medically harmless, stretch marks on the abdomen are a common aesthetic concern that abdominoplasty may be able to improve depending on their location.
  • Subcutaneous fat: Known as the fat found directly underneath the skin, subcutaneous fat is typically found in localized pockets around the face and body. It’s often resistant to dieting and exercise and can be corrected with body sculpting procedures like liposuction and tummy tuck surgery.

A tummy tuck is a complex and relatively invasive procedure designed to repair excess skin and weakened internal musculature. That said, having a strong and accurate understanding of the tummy tuck procedure is essential to your overall satisfaction after abdominoplasty. Your consultation with Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani will be an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about surgery, the recovery process, or any other concerns you may have.

What Can a Tummy Tuck Accomplish?

A tummy tuck is the only procedure designed to comprehensively treat the abdominal muscles, skin, and fat, thereby reshaping the entire abdomen. This cosmetic surgery addresses aesthetic concerns that can never be resolved with dieting and exercise alone, such as separated or weakened musculature and stretched, redundant skin. As a result, abdominoplasty can often allow patients to enjoy:

  • A slimmer, smoother appearance in the abdomen
  • An improved silhouette and abdominal contour
  • A leaner waistline—particularly if liposuction is incorporated into one’s treatment plan

If you would like to see the types of results that are possible with abdominoplasty, our before-and-after photos of previous tummy tuck patients can be an excellent place to start. The outcomes showcased can help you gain an initial understanding of what you may potentially achieve with abdominoplasty before your consultation with Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani.

WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR TUMMY TUCK SURGERY?

The best candidates for abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) are patients who are in relatively good shape, but who cannot get rid of the loose skin and extra fat around their midsection. Abdominoplasty can especially be helpful for women who have had multiple pregnancies. Some basic prerequisites for surgery include being in good health overall and being a nonsmoker, or someone who can stop smoking for several weeks before and after the operation. More specifically, patients considering tummy tuck surgery should have excess skin on their abdomen, usually due to pregnancy and childbirth or weight loss, although genetic influences can also play a role. Loose muscles and fatty tissue in the area can also be addressed with abdominoplasty. During your initial consultation, Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani will evaluate your concerns and discuss your goals to come up with a customized treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

TUMMY TUCK VS. LIPOSUCTION

Many patients question whether abdominoplasty or liposuction is the most ideal treatment to address their aesthetic concerns. While both surgeries are similarly considered body contouring procedures that can improve the appearance of the abdomen, there are a few key differences between a tummy tuck and liposuction. In general, tummy tuck surgery is designed to address skin laxity and separated abdominal musculature, two characteristics that often create the look of a protruding abdomen when combined. For patients whose concerns include loose, excess skin and stretched abdominal muscles, a tummy tuck can typically serve as the most effective solution to tighten, firm, and smooth the area.

Liposuction, on the other hand, primarily treats stubborn fat bulges that are resistant to dieting and exercise. While the procedure can result in a more defined abdominal appearance by removing excess fat pockets, this surgery is not designed to improve skin laxity or separated musculature. As a result, liposuction can benefit patients with minimal skin laxity who simply wish to resculpt the abdominal area through targeted fat removal. It is also not uncommon to combine both procedures for the most powerful aesthetic improvement. Ultimately, Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani can help you determine the most beneficial course of action to achieve your desired look when he examines your concerns in a consultation.

HOW IS THE TUMMY TUCK PROCEDURE PERFORMED?

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) begins with an incision made from hip to hip, creating a flap of skin. Next, the skin is separated from the abdominal wall to reveal the abdominal muscles, which are then tightened and stitched into their new position. The skin flap is stretched down and excess skin is removed. Finally, the incision is closed and dressings are applied. A compression garment provided by the Centre must be worn for the initial recovery. Abdominoplasty at our Florida practice typically takes between two and four hours to complete and is performed under general anesthesia by a Board-Certified Anesthesiologist.

MINI ABDOMINOPLASTY

In the event your concerns are located entirely below the belly button, a procedure known as “mini abdominoplasty” may be an option for you. With this technique, a shorter incision is made and only excess skin is trimmed. The location of the belly button remains the same, and the abdominal muscles will not be tightened with this approach. As a result, this method is only appropriate for certain individuals. Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani will let you know if this is an effective option for your needs and goals.

WHAT IS RECOVERY FROM A TUMMY TUCK LIKE?

After abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), you will experience some bruising, swelling, and minor discomfort, but these side effects will subside as you heal. The first night after tummy tuck surgery, you are taken care of by our private duty Registered Nurse in our facility. Although your scar will never completely disappear after abdominoplasty, it is easily hidden under clothing and bathing suits.

Recovery requires some patience, but most individuals can return to light duty after two weeks. Swelling and bruising should gradually fade, and the majority of the inflammation should dissipate after a few months. While complete healing can take up to a year or so, you may not notice any residual effects after two or three months. If you have an occasion planned that you want to be ready for, please schedule your operation at least two months in advance.

WHAT WILL MY SCARS LOOK LIKE?

The length of the scar will vary depending on your unique treatment plan, but generally the incision will be located low on the waist and run from hip to hip. This mark will be placed as low as possible, and it should not be visible in most types of clothing, including underwear and swimsuits. Scars take time to heal. The incision will appear pinkish or red for several months but should gradually fade and flatten over time. Your final result is very important to us, and we will monitor your progress to ensure you’re on the right track at every step.

HOW LONG DOES A TUMMY TUCK LAST?

A tummy tuck is designed to produce long-term results, with most patients enjoying the outcome of their procedure for approximately 15 to 20 years or longer. These results should remain stable over time as long as individuals maintain a stable weight and adhere to a healthy lifestyle. Pregnancy after a tummy tuck can cause the abdominal muscles to separate once more, undoing some of the improvement achieved with abdominoplasty. Therefore, pursuing the procedure when there are no plans for future pregnancy can help tummy tuck patients preserve their new body contour.

HOW MUCH DOES A TUMMY TUCK COST?

The price of a tummy tuck depends on the details of each patient’s unique surgical plan, with factors affecting the overall cost including:

  • Whether other treatments were performed in conjunction with tummy tuck
  • The surgical technique used
  • The extent of concerns addressed
  • The overall complexity of the procedure

Expenses associated with a tummy tuck also vary considerably by geographic region, as well as by the expertise of a plastic surgeon. After Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani assesses your needs in a consultation, our office will be able to provide you with a personalized quote of your tummy tuck. For patients who prefer to pay for their treatment over time, our practice works with CareCredit®— a plastic surgery financing company that can make the cost of abdominoplasty more affordable. Qualified applicants can select from an array of flexible payment plans, many of which include low monthly installments as well as low- to no-interest rates, to choose the most ideal option for their budgetary needs. A member of our team would be happy to walk you through the easy application process. If you have any other questions about the cost of a tummy tuck, please don’t hesitate to contact our practice today.

TUMMY TUCK AND PREGNANCY

When recommending the best time to undergo a tummy tuck, Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani typically advises patients to pursue the procedure after they have finished completing their family. While individuals may choose to undergo surgery beforehand, the physical effects of childbearing, such as skin laxity and stretched abdominal musculature, can often reverse the results of the procedure. For this reason, pursuing abdominoplasty once there are no longer any future plans for pregnancy can maximize the final outcome.

TUMMY TUCK AND MOMMY MAKEOVER

Some of the most common concerns women have after having children is that their body just “isn’t the same.” They typically have loose, sagging skin on the abdomen, a lower stomach that “pooches” out due to muscle laxity, and some residual pockets of fatty tissue. Other people may develop these issues as a result of the natural aging process or due to genetic influence. *Abdominoplasty addresses these concerns, helping to smooth and tone the midsection for a firmer, flatter, more youthful-looking result.

Tummy tuck surgery is often combined with breast lift surgery—or other procedures designed to address body areas physically altered by pregnancy or nursing—in a procedure called a Mommy Makeover. Depending on one’s unique concerns, some women prefer to combine abdominoplasty with breast augmentation or breast reduction. Other options may include liposuction to recontour areas affected by stubborn fat, or non-surgical facial fillers to smooth wrinkles and signs of age. We can modify your treatment plan to improve a wide range of concerns, simply let us know what your cosmetic goals include and we will help you find the optimal solution.

CAN I GET A NON-SURGICAL TUMMY TUCK?

Since a tummy tuck is primarily designed to tighten loose skin and bring together stretched muscles in the abdomen, there is currently no non-surgical solution that can achieve the same results as abdominoplasty. However, while the concerns addressed in a tummy tuck are generally impossible to improve without surgery, Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani does offer a non-invasive treatment to contour the abdomen and virtually any other body area. CoolSculpting® is a cutting-edge method of targeted fat removal that uses Cryolipolysis™, a technology designed to freeze fat cells without harming the skin or surrounding tissue, to smooth fat bulges. CoolSculpting® can help patients remove excess fat around the torso and sculpt the abdominal region without the need for incisions, anesthesia, or downtime. While unable to replicate the outcome of a tummy tuck, CoolSculpting® can achieve some degree of body contouring for individuals struggling with excess abdominal fat.

Are There Alternatives to a Tummy Tuck?

While a tummy tuck can improve the abdominal region, there are many patients who also struggle with excess skin on other regions of the lower body, such as the buttocks and thighs. This is especially common in individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight, whether through bariatric surgery or dieting and exercise. Body contouring after weight loss is considered the go-to treatment to remove excess skin in the lower body and restore a smoother, firmer, and tighter look. The procedure is designed to correct skin folds and excess fat, restoring a sleeker contour in the treated areas.

Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani customizes this procedure according to your unique needs and will develop a surgical plan to improve skin laxity in the abdomen, thighs, and/or buttocks depending on your area(s) of concern. Post-weight loss body contouring can be a more comprehensive way to address loose skin after major weight loss, allowing patients to address multiple regions in one treatment plan.

Choosing a Top Tummy Tuck Surgeon

A tummy tuck is a major procedure that can be immensely rewarding for patients who want to improve skin laxity in their abdomen. However, selecting a highly qualified plastic surgeon who can achieve the results you desire is critical to the success of your surgery. We understand the research process can be difficult, so our team has compiled a checklist of important qualities to look for in a plastic surgeon. In general, your tummy tuck surgeon should have:

  • A reputation for excellent results in aesthetic surgery: You can gain a sense of whether your plastic surgeon is well-established by learning about their reputation, honors, and awards. Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani has been recognized on both a local and national level, earning features in publications such as Allure®, Self®, and the Consumer’s Research Council of America for being one of the “Premier Plastic Surgeons of Central and West Coast Florida” and “America’s Top Plastic Surgeons,” respectively.
  • Extensive experience performing abdominoplasty: It’s typically true that the quality of plastic surgery results is higher the more frequently the procedure is performed. Be sure to ask how often a prospective plastic surgeon performs tummy tuck surgery, and compare their before-and-after photos with the results you envision to see if the outcomes displayed are consistent with your expectations.
  • The ability to provide exceptional care tailored to your needs: Custom, individualized care is crucial to making your aesthetic desires a reality. Exploring a doctor’s online reviews can give you an idea of other patients’ experiences and whether they were satisfied with their results, as well as the level of care received.
  • An accredited surgical facility: Your tummy tuck should be performed in an accredited surgery facility equipped with the highest standards of safety, sterilization, and privacy. At The Aesthetic Surgery Centre, patients appreciate the ability to undergo their cosmetic procedures in our private on-site, AAAASF-accredited surgical facility rather than a public hospital.
  • Membership to professional organizations: Finally, it’s important for your prospective surgeon to prioritize continuing education and keep abreast of new technologies and treatments. Participation in local and national professional organizations can communicate a plastic surgeon’s dedication to learning the latest, most up-to-date techniques in cosmetic surgery.

During your abdominoplasty consultation, you will have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have about Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani’s training, credentials, and experience, as well as the tummy tuck procedure in general. Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani aims to ensure each individual walks out of their consultation with a strong understanding of the benefits, risks, limitations, and potential outcome of tummy tuck surgery.

Complements to a Tummy Tuck

There are many breast and body contouring procedures that can help accentuate your tummy tuck results, depending on your desires and expectations for the final outcome. If you’ve had children or have ever experienced massive weight loss, you may consider combining your abdominoplasty with the following treatment options:

  • Breast Lift: A breast lift, or “mastopexy,” can address skin laxity caused by aging, pregnancy, and weight loss, often complementing the results achieved with tummy tuck surgery. This procedure can reshape the breasts and generally enhance the contours of the chest, giving you a more youthful look.
  • Liposuction: More often than not, excess fat also accompanies loose skin on the abdomen, potentially making liposuction an excellent adjunct to a tummy tuck. The fat reduction procedure can restore a flatter, smoother look in the belly when there is moderate to significant abdominal fat, and typically leaves minimal scarring after surgery.
  • Mommy Makeover: A tummy tuck commonly serves as one component of a larger Mommy Makeover, which combines several aesthetic procedures based on a patient’s needs and cosmetic goals. If you have more than one concern you’d like to improve with surgery, a Mommy Makeover may be ideal.
      • Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani can speak with you about what you hope to accomplish with abdominoplasty to determine the best complementary procedures to make your goals a reality. In some cases, your treatment plan may be completed over time rather than all at once to obtain the best possible results.

      ADDITIONAL TUMMY TUCK FAQS

      DOES A TUMMY TUCK GET RID OF STRETCH MARKS?

      A tummy tuck may be able to eliminate some stretch marks, depending on their location and the amount of excess skin to be removed. If your stretch marks appear between the navel and the pubic area, there is a good chance that they can be removed or reduced in appearance. Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani will be able to determine whether this is possible after your consultation.

      HOW CAN I REDUCE SWELLING AFTER A TUMMY TUCK?

      Swelling is usually most prominent for four to six weeks after surgery, but it may take months before all inflammation completely settles. While swelling gradually subsides, you can accelerate the healing process by wearing compression garments according to Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani’s instructions. This can promote proper blood flow and help shape your new contours. Getting plenty of rest and avoiding salty foods can also help reduce swelling during your recovery period.

      DOES INSURANCE COVER TUMMY TUCK SURGERY?

      Insurance does not usually provide coverage for cosmetic procedures such as abdominoplasty. Diastasis repair—which refers to the tightening of loose or separated abdominal muscles—is considered a concern that is aesthetic in nature, often eliminating the possibility of coverage. However, our financing options can be utilized to make out-of-pocket costs as manageable as possible.

      WHAT IS SEROMA AFTER A TUMMY TUCK?

      A seroma refers to fluid buildup under the skin, which commonly occurs after surgery when tissue is removed or disrupted. Seromas generally resemble a cyst or swollen lump and resolve on their own as the fluid is reabsorbed by the body. However, if your seroma is large, very painful, or emitting a dark and bloody discharge, it may require treatment from a doctor. Please be sure to reach out to Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani if you have any concerns about developing a seroma after tummy tuck surgery.

      Is a “tummy tuck belt” effective?

      Although the Tummy Tuck Belt® and similar products are marketed as non-surgical alternatives to reshape the abdomen, there is no scientific research or reputable evidence to support the claim that simply wearing an abdominal binder can replicate the results of a tummy tuck. This “belt,” which resembles a compression garment, is purported to work with a “fat burning” cream and a 10-minute exercise regimen to naturally slim and tighten the abdomen. Needless to say, these techniques are not capable of repairing stretched skin and musculature, and the Tummy Tuck Belt® should not be considered an effective way to recreate the powerful results of a surgical tummy tuck.

      Should I worry about weight gain after a tummy tuck?

      After tummy tuck surgery, maintaining a stable weight is the best way to ensure your results last as long as possible. While patients should not obsess or worry about their weight after the procedure, major weight gain does have the potential to alter body contouring results. That said, Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani usually advises patients to reduce weight fluctuation through regular dieting and exercise. For most individuals who have undergone abdominoplasty, living a healthy and active lifestyle after the procedure is enough to help preserve the outcome of a tummy tuck for the long-term future.

      Can a tummy tuck get rid of a C-section scar?

      Depending on where your C-section incision was made, a tummy tuck may be able to remove the scar at the same time as your procedure. The likelihood of removal is usually greater if the scar is located above the bikini line on the abdomen. If desired, Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani can examine your C-section scar during your consultation to determine whether scar removal is possible. It’s important to note that while abdominoplasty will also leave a scar, the incision is usually placed very low on the pubis so visible scarring is often concealed by underwear or swimsuits.

      Does a male tummy tuck differ from a female tummy tuck?

      While the general surgical techniques are the same for both male and female tummy tuck patients, Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani personalizes the procedure based on each person’s natural anatomy and unique characteristics. This means that a more curvaceous and slender look is typically emphasized for women, while masculine contours and improved abdominal definition will be highlighted for men. Ultimately, a tummy tuck for men will be performed with the ideal masculine proportions in mind to help ensure a natural-looking result.

      Is there a risk of tummy tuck complications?

      Every surgical procedure includes a risk of complications, and abdominoplasty is no exception. However, adverse events during a tummy tuck are extremely rare as long as patients are under the care of an experienced plastic surgeon. With an aesthetic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery—which only awards accreditation to plastic surgeons who have undergone extensive post-graduate training and maintain a strong record of outstanding patient outcomes—those who are considering a tummy tuck can feel comfortable and confident that their health and safety are in the best possible hands.

      Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery typically results in a slimmer waistline and a firmer abdomen. If you want to learn more about abdominoplasty or other procedures, please contact the Aesthetic Surgery Centre today. Our friendly staff will be happy to answer any of your questions and help you schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Jon Paul Trevisani.

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