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Abdominoplasty can be used to improve the following:


  • Sagging abdominal skin
  • Excess stomach fat
  • Weakened abdominal muscles
  • Protruding stomach

What is a Tummy Tuck?

Both men and women strive to achieve a flat and/or well-toned abdomen through exercise and a healthy diet. However, sometimes these methods alone are not enough to achieve your goals. Aging, heredity, prior surgery, pregnancy, and weight fluctuations can all take a toll on how our abdomen looks. A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, removed excess skin and fat from the abdomen, as well as corrects weakened or separated abdominal muscles.

However, it is important to understand that a tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure and is not a substitute for an appropriate exercise program.

Who is a Candidate?

Individuals who are bothered by excess, lax skin on their abdomen or the appearance of a protruding belly due to weakened or separated abdominal muscles can benefit from a tummy tuck. Ideal candidates will be healthy and at a stable weight and have a positive outlook on their procedure.

However, it is important to understand that a tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure and is not a substitute for an appropriate exercise program. If you are interested in learning if this procedure is right for you, contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Willis.

Reviews

More Reviews

I am over the moon with my results from Dr. Willis after a breast lift and an abdominoplasty. Dr. Willis and his team are so easy to work with. He listened to what I wanted and gave me beautiful results- better than I could have even hoped for. If you’re thinking about getting a procedure done with Dr. Willis my advice would be DO IT!

Dr. Willis and Leah have been so great to me in my cosmetic surgery experience. They always answer my questions, they are so kind. I couldn’t see myself going to anyone else.

Dr. Willis and his staff couldn’t be more helpful and supportive. This has been the most pleasant experience and I am so pleased with the results and it’s only been a week. The staff at the surgery center as well was wonderful and put all my fears to rest. I highly recommend anyone who is thinking of a procedure Dr. Willis and his staff provide you with all the information you need. Wish I had done it sooner.

I have had the best experience with Dr. Willis and Leah. I have had filler, Dysport, and I've been under the knife with Dr. Willis and I've been so happy with all of my results. I actually feel like a part of their family, I can call whenever I need anything and they both make me feel like they care about me and my results.

The Tummy Tuck Procedure

A tummy tuck addresses the full length of the abdominal wall to achieve a flatter, firmer abdomen. To achieve this, a horizontal incision will be created along the natural curves of the body between the hipbones. The length of the incision will depend on the amount of skin that needs to be removed. The abdominal skin will be lifted and underlying weakened muscles will be repaired. Another incision may be created around the belly button to remove excess skin on the upper abdomen as well. Excess skin will then be removed, and the skin sutured closed.

Recovery

Following your tummy tuck procedure, you can expect to feel sore and experience swelling and bruising. You may be wrapped in a compression garment to reduce swelling and support your new body contours as you heal. In some cases, temporary drains will be placed to collect any excess fluid during recovery. Dr. Willis will give you instructions on how to care for your surgical site, specific concerns to be aware of, how to take oral medications, and when to schedule a follow-up appointment at our office. Depending on the nature of your job, you may be able to return to work after 2-4 weeks.

Contact Us Today

Individuals in the Charlottesville, VA area who are interested in a mommy makeover to restore their body contours can contact Charlottesville Plastic Surgery today. Our team will be happy to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Willis to determine the best procedures to help make your aesthetic goals a reality.

Meet Dr. Willis

With an eye for finding the unique beauty in each individual, Dr. Willis incorporates the most modern techniques with a conservative touch, and strives to build lasting relationships with every patient.

 

Meet the Team

Are tummy tucks dangerous?

Tummy tucks, if performed by a board certified plastic surgeon and at a accredited surgical facility, are very safe.

Can a tummy tuck cause stomach issues?

A Tummy tuck should not cause any stomach issues. The surgery never violates the intra-abdominal cavity.

Can I walk after tummy tuck?

You are encouraged to walk after your tummy tuck surgery. You may need to walk in a slightly hunched, or flexed position, for a week, but this should not prevent you from ambulating.

Can you get a tummy tuck if youre obese?

Tummy tucks should be reserved for patients with a BMI less than 35. Optimal results are in patients with BMI less than 30.

Do you get a scar from a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck scar is hidden below the underwear line on the anterior abdomen.

Do you have to be skinny to get a tummy tuck?

For best results, your BMI should be below 30

Does a tummy tuck tighten muscles?

A tummy tuck returns the abdominal muscles back to midline - thereby increasing your core strength.

How are tummy tucks done?

Tummy tucks involve tightening the core abdominal muscles and excising a wedge of excess skin and fat typically from the belly button to the mons.

Can you get pregnant after tummy tuck?

You can get pregnant after a tummy tuck. If your surgeon performed fascial plication you may want to inform your OBGYN of this procedure.

Can you lose weight after tummy tuck?

You can lose weight after a tummy tuck. The tummy tuck alone will remove considerable skin and fat, but this excess removed does not weigh as much as you would think.

Do men get tummy tuck?

Men often get tummy tucks for the same reason as women. They suffer from stubborn lower abdomen fat and skin excess.

Do tummy tucks work?

Surgery is the most definitive way to get rid of stubborn abdominal skin and fat. It is a permanent treatment for skin excess.

How can I lose my stomach fat?

Liposuction and or a tummy tuck is the most definitive way to permanently lost stomach fat.

How dangerous is a tummy tuck?

Tummy tucks, if performed by a board certified plastic surgeon and at a accredited surgical facility, are very safe.

How do I prepare for a tummy tuck?

To prepare for your tummy tuck, you should stop smoking at least 4 weeks prior to your surgery. It is important to be at, or close to your goal weight and to have a stable weight for 4 to 6 months.

How long will a tummy tuck last?

A tummy tuck is a permanent solution to excessive stomach skin and fat.

How many sizes do you lose with a tummy tuck?

The sizes lost will be determined by your current size and the degree of fat and skin removed. This will vary by patient.

What are the side effects of a tummy tuck?

You may experience some transient numbness of the skin just above the incision while you heal.

What do you eat after tummy tuck?

You can resume a normal diet after a tummy tuck.

What does a tummy tuck usually cost?

Tummy tucks, including surgeons, facility and anesthesia fees, usually start around $8,000+

What is the best girdle to wear after a tummy tuck?

You will be provided a compression binder after your tummy tuck. There are multiple brands that sell compression garments that can provide adequate compression as well.

Will a tummy tuck make my stomach flat?

A tummy tuck should make your stomach much flatter, but depends on your existing body habitus and shape. Discuss with your plastic surgeon your expectations and realistic end goals.

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