Tummy Tuck / Abdominoplasty

Plastic Surgery in Charleston, SC

A tummy tuck (also known as an abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure that can help you achieve a flat, toned abdomen. If you have been trying to get a pleasing body contour with diet and exercise but still have a protruding or sagging belly with excess fat or skin and slack muscles, a tummy tuck may be the right procedure for you.

To discuss your body contouring options and whether a tummy tuck is right for you, please call or email Port City Plastic Surgery in Charleston, South Carolina today.

Why Choose Dr. Widenhouse for Your Tummy Tuck

Charleston, South Carolina plastic surgeon Dr. Brian G. Widenhouse is a board-certified member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). This means he has met or exceeded the highest standards for plastic surgery training, practice, and ethics. He dedicates himself to giving each of his patients the full, personalized attention he or she deserves. He provides for your safety, privacy, and comfort by operating in a fully-accredited ambulatory surgical center with a board-certified anesthesiologist.

A Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck

You should only consider a tummy tuck if you are bothered by the appearance or feeling that your tummy is too large. You may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you are at a stable weight and are physically healthy. It is best if you have already tried nonsurgical options like diet and exercise to tighten your abdomen. In addition, you should:

• Have realistic expectations
• Be a non-smoker, or be prepared to quit smoking for a significant period prior to surgery and during recovery
• Be prepared to reveal all medications, drugs, vitamins, herbal supplements you are currently using

In addition, Dr. Widenhouse will evaluate you to see if you might be able to get the results you desire with other body contouring procedures like liposuction or SmartLipo™.

The Tummy Tuck Procedure

There are two main types of tummy tucks: a full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck. Both begin with an incision at or above the pubic hairline. In both procedures excess skin, fat, and other tissue are removed and abdominal muscles are tightened and held with permanent sutures.

A mini or partial tummy tuck only provides tightening below the navel. The belly button may be pulled slightly downwards. The incision is smaller and the recovery quicker than for a full tummy tuck.

For tightening through the entire abdominal region with a full tummy tuck, a second incision around the navel is required. Tightening of skin and muscles can be done in the entire abdomen.

Tummy Tuck Recovery and Results

After your tummy tuck, results may initially be concealed by swelling. You will wear a compression garment or be wrapped in an elastic bandage to help your recovery. You will have a drainage tube at first. Dr. Widenhouse will give you specific instructions for your recovery, including prescriptions for medications to control postoperative discomfort.

Results will be visible when swelling goes down. You will see your slimmer contour, which should be permanent, although it can change as a result of future weight gain and loss. Stretch marks in the lower abdomen may be gone. You will have a scar in the low abdomen. The scar should be low enough that it will be concealed by most clothing, underwear, and bikini bottoms.

To learn more about a tummy tuck and whether it is a good procedure for you, please visit our Questions about Abdominoplasty page or schedule a consultation with Dr. Widenhouse at Port City Plastic Surgery in Charleston, South Carolina today.