Questions about Abdominoplasty

Plastic Surgery in Charleston, SC

What is Abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty (commonly called a tummy tuck) is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, fat, and other tissues to help you achieve a smooth abdominal contour. If you have a loose or protruding abdomen that exercise and weight loss have been unable to correct, an abdominoplasty may be able to help.

Am I a candidate for Abdominoplasty?

If you are regularly bothered by the appearance of your tummy, are in good general health, are a non-smoker, and have realistic expectations for the procedure, you might be a good candidate for an abdominoplasty. You can also look at Are You a Candidate for Cosmetic Surgery. But the best way to know whether you are a good candidate for abdominoplasty is to schedule a consultation with Charleston, South Carolina plastic surgeon Brian G. Widenhouse, M.D.

What is meant by "good general health"?

You are considered to be in good general health if you are:

• At or near your ideal body weight
• Get regular exercise appropriate to your physical condition (consult with your primary doctor about appropriate exercise for you)
• Eat a balanced diet that includes a good amount of fresh fruits and vegetables
• Have not had a recent surgery or traumatic injury
• Do not have a history of blood clots or adverse reactions to anesthesia
• Do not have an ongoing infection
• Are not taking medications that might lead to adverse reactions during surgery

To ensure you are a good candidate for abdominoplasty, mention any of the above items to Dr. Widenhouse during your consultation.

What are realistic expectations for an Abdominoplasty?

An abdominoplasty can give significant improvement in the shape of your tummy and reduce the appearance of wrinkled abdominal skin. It is not a substitute for exercise or dieting. The results of abdominoplasty are essentially permanent but may be affected by future weight gain and loss. Some stretch marks may even be removed during an abdominoplasty.

See our main tummy tuck page for a detailed description of the procedure.

How long is recovery from an Abdominoplasty?

You will experience postoperative discomfort for about a week after your abdominoplasty. This is typically managed with medication. You should count on missing about 1-2 weeks of work and refrain from strenuous activities for about four weeks or more.

What is recovery from an Abdominoplasty like?

Although discomfort is easily managed with medication, you will not be able to stand or walk very much at first. You might want to arrange for help during the first couple days after your surgery. You will be wrapped in elastic bandages or wear a compression garment after the procedure. You will have a drainage tube installed. Gradually you will begin to feel better, and as you feel ready, it is good to resume light exercise and activities.

When will I see results from my Abdominoplasty?

At first, swelling will obscure your results, but once the swelling goes down, the results of your abdominoplasty will be visible. You will have a scar from the procedure, but it will be very low on your abdomen, easily concealed by most clothing including most underwear, swimsuits, and low-cut jeans. Women with c-section scars can have them incorporated into the abdominoplasty scar.

Why choose Abdominoplasty over Liposuction?

Liposuction is a procedure for removing fat. It does not address excess skin or slack abdominal muscles. If you have excess fat in the upper abdomen and flank area, a combination of liposuction and abdominoplasty can be very effective at restoring your appearance. If you have good skin and muscle tone, liposuction alone may give you the results you desire.

Why should I see Dr. Widenhouse for my Abdominoplasty?

Dr. Widenhouse is a board-certified plastic surgeon and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), which means he has met the highest standards of plastic surgery training, skill, and ethics. He has also been selected to be among Best Doctors by his peers. He performs his procedures in a fully-accredited ambulatory surgical center to ensure your safety, comfort, and privacy. In addition, he has extensive experience with body contouring procedures, breast augmentation, and facial rejuvenation.

To learn more about abdominoplasty, please call or email Port City Plastic Surgery in Charleston, South Carolina today.