Tummy Tuck

What is a tummy tuck? 

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that reduces excess skin and fat in the tummy area and tightens the abdominal wall muscles.  Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) can help to create a tight, flat abdominal muscle wall, while addressing any excess loose skin and fat.  Liposuction is often combined with an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) to remove unwanted fat.

Who is a good candidate for a tummy tuck?

Any patient with excess skin or fat in the abdominal area is a good candidate for an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck.)    Many patients have had one or multiple pregnancies or significant weight loss; after these events, the skin and fat in the abdomen can become very loose and unsightly.  Exercise cannot improve the hanging skin.  The muscles of the abdomen may be stretch and your belly begins to create a noticeable abdominal bulge.  Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a popular operation for both men and women.

What happens during the tummy tuck?

A small incision is made in the pubic region, below the bikini line.  This incision is made only as long as necessary to perform the procedure.  It is placed as discreetly as possible and the residual scarring will be easily hidden under swimwear or underwear.  During the procedure, Dr. Wolfeld tightens the underlying abdominal muscles, in order to narrow the waistline and firm the abdomen.  Excess fat is romved and the skin is pulled taut around the stomach.  The incision is then closed with sutures.  The entire procedure generally takes between two and four hours and is performed under general anesthesia.  Most patients have their tummy tuck performed as an outpatient procedure; they are able to return home with a chaperone after the procedure.

How much downtime is there after a tummy tuck?

There will be some abdominal swelling for a few days following the abdominoplasty.  Discomfort is easily managed with medication.  Patients are advised to take walks soon after the surgery in order to prevent blood clots, though strenuous exercise should not begin until six weeks after the abdominoplasty.  Most patients return to work after two to three weeks.

What is a Mini Tummy Tuck?

A mini tummy tuck (mini abdominoplasty) is a faster and less invasive procedure than a traditional tummy tuck.  Those patients with just a small amount of excess skin or those with minor sagging of the skin are good candidates for a mini abdominoplasty.  Patients are generally able to return to normal daily activites within a few days of their mini tummy tuck.

Who performs the Tummy Tucks and Mini Tummy Tucks?

All tummy tucks (abdominoplasties) and mini tummy tucks (mini abdominoplasties) are performed by Dr. Wolfeld, an accomplished plastic surgeon in NYC and New Jersey.

To schedule a tummy tuck consultation with Dr. Wolfeld, please call 212-283-3000