Tummy Tuck Surgery
Pregnancy, substantial weight loss, and even natural aging can lead to stubborn pockets of fat and loose skin. Tummy tuck surgery, medically known as abdominoplasty, is a transformative procedure designed to reshape and contour the abdomen. Whether you’re seeking to restore your pre-pregnancy figure, address loose skin following significant weight loss, or simply achieve a flatter, more toned midsection, tummy tuck surgery offers a path to a slimmer, more confident you.
Avenue Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery offers a custom approach to abdominoplasty in Athens, Georgia, that can meet your individual needs and help you achieve the body contouring goals of your dreams.
You can rely on Dr. Chelsea Venditto and feel secure in receiving the highest level of care and detail with a safety-oriented approach.
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What Is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that targets the abdominal area, addressing concerns such as excess skin, stretched abdominal muscles, and stubborn fat deposits, and can help individuals achieve a smoother, firmer, and more youthful abdominal contour.
What Are My Tummy Tuck Options?
There are three main types of tummy tucks, each tailored to specific needs and goals:
Full Tummy Tuck (Traditional Abdominoplasty)
Full Tummy Tuck procedure involves an incision that extends from hip to hip, allowing for the extensive correction of loose abdominal muscles and removal of excess fat and skin.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Mini Tummy Tuck procedure focuses on the lower abdomen and involves a shorter incision. A mini tummy tuck is ideal for individuals with smaller amounts of excess skin and fat below the navel.
Extended Tummy Tuck
Extended Tummy Tuck, a comprehensive procedure extends the incision further to address excess skin and fat on the flanks and lower back, making it suitable for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or extensive abdominal muscle separation.
Since it is common for the mons, the lowest part of the abdomen area, to have laxity, Dr. Venditto will asses this location to facilitate the best results for the tummy tuck. If needed, the mons area is addressed at the same time during abdominoplasty.
An even more comprehensive option than an extended tummy tuck is the Circumferential (Body Lift). This procedure is reserved for patients with significant excess skin and fat around the entire midsection. A body lift involves an incision that encircles the body, allowing for comprehensive body contouring.
Dr. Venditto works closely with her patients to understand their goals and preferences to determine the best tummy tuck option and will make meeting your individual needs her priority.
Dr. Venditto will determine your candidacy during your in-depth consultation.
Am I a Candidate for Tummy Tuck Surgery in Athens, GA?
Ideal candidates for tummy tucks are individuals who:
- Have realistic expectations about the outcome of their procedure.
- Are in good overall health and do not have any medical conditions that may impair healing.
- Are at or near their target weight, as tummy tucks are not a weight loss solution.
- Have no history of blood clots in the legs or lungs or known clotting disorders
- Are non-smokers or willing to quit smoking before and after surgery.
- Have stable emotional well-being and a positive outlook on body enhancement.
How Is Abdominoplasty Performed?
Before Your Tummy Tuck
You will discuss your concerns, goals, and preferences during your consultation with Dr. Venditto.
She then performs an evaluation, including your medical history, current health status, and any medications you are taking to ensure that you can undergo abdominoplasty safely and that the procedure can produce your desired results.
During Your Tummy Tuck
Tummy tuck surgery typically involves the following steps:
- Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort and safety during the procedure.
- Incision: The surgeon makes an incision based on the chosen tummy tuck type, which may be low on the abdomen, extending from hip to hip, or encircling the waist.
- Core Muscle Repair: If necessary, the surgeon tightens and repairs the abdominal muscles, addressing any muscle separation (diastasis recti).
- Skin and Fat Removal: Excess skin and fat are removed, creating a smoother and firmer abdominal contour.
- Navel Repositioning: In some cases, the navel may need to be repositioned to ensure a natural appearance.
- Closure: The incisions are carefully closed with sutures, and dressings or surgical tape are applied.
How Long Is Recovery From Tummy Tuck Surgery?
After your tummy tuck, depending on the extent of your surgery, expect the following:
- Compression Garments: You will find that a compression garment has been placed over your abdomen to reduce swelling and support proper healing.
- Hospital Stay: Most tummy tuck patients can go home the same day. In some cases, an overnight hospital stay may be recommended. You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for the initial 24 hours.
- Postoperative Pain: Some discomfort and swelling are normal and can be managed with prescribed medications.
- Physical Activity: Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks. However, patients are encouraged to take short, gentle walks to promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attending your scheduled follow-up appointments with Dr. Venditto is crucial to monitor your healing progress, remove sutures, and address any concerns you may have. If you experience anything unusual, call our office immediately so we can advise you on the next steps.
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost in Athens, GA?
The cost of your tummy tuck will depend on various factors, including surgeon’s fees, anesthesia costs, facility fees, and the type of tummy tuck procedure needed to meet your goals. You will receive an inclusive cost quote following your consultation.
When Will I See My Tummy Tuck Results?
You will be able to see your initial Results within a couple of weeks as most of the swelling subsides, but it will take two or more months to visualize your final outcome.
View Before & After Photos
Board-Certified Tummy Tuck Surgeon in Athens, GA
Dr. Chelsea Venditto is a highly-trained, meticulous plastic surgeon who provides tummy tucks in Athens, Georgia. Contact us today to schedule your abdominoplasty consultation!
Tummy Tuck FAQs
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What are the benefits of tummy tuck surgery?
Abdominoplasty offers some of the best results plastic surgery has to offer, including:
- A flatter and more toned abdomen
- Improved muscle definition
- Reduced excess skin and fat
- Enhanced body confidence and self-esteem
It’s important to note that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, is essential to preserve the results of a tummy tuck in the long term.
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Will there be visible scarring after a tummy tuck?
Yes, you can expect a scar that extends from one hip bone to the other (smaller with mini tummy tucks), but because the incision is placed just above the groin area, it is easily hidden by underwear or swimsuit bottoms and will fade over time.
The extent of scarring depends on the type of tummy tuck and post-surgical care, including special creams and protection from sun exposure.
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What can I expect in terms of postoperative discomfort?
Some discomfort is expected after surgery but is well-controlled with prescription medicines.
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Can I have children after a tummy tuck?
While having children after a tummy tuck is possible, completing your family before this type of surgery is recommended for the best long-term results.
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Will a tummy tuck help me lose weight?
Tummy tucks are intended to reshape and contour the abdomen and are not designed to be a weight loss solution. Patients should be at or near their ideal weight before undergoing this surgery.
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Are tummy tuck results permanent?
The results of a tummy tuck should be long-lasting but require a commitment to a healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise.
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What are the risks associated with a tummy tuck?
Tummy tucks, like all surgeries, involve potential risks. These include bleeding, scarring, infection, and changes in sensation. Dr. Venditto will discuss all possible risks during your consultation.
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How soon can I return to work and resume my normal activities after a tummy tuck?
Downtime can vary significantly but generally ranges from two to four weeks before most patients should return to work and at least six weeks to resume more strenuous activities. Dr. Venditto will provide specific guidelines based on the status of your healing.
Can I combine a tummy tuck with other procedures?
Yes, tummy tuck surgery can be combined with other procedures like a breast lift (mastopexy), breast augmentation surgery, and other body contouring treatments for more dramatic results or a “Mommy Makeover.”
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