What is a Tummy Tuck?

If you have loose skin or a bulge of fat around your abdomen, it can affect your confidence and hold you back from doing things you enjoy. A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is an effective way to restore a flat, smooth stomach, even if you have been pregnant or lost a large amount of weight. This procedure addresses skin, fat, and muscles for a complete abdominal rejuvenation.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

This procedure, usually referred to as a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty, addresses concerns about the abdominal area. Depending on your needs, your surgeon will tighten excess skin, remove stubborn fat, and repair separated abdominal muscles. The result is a flatter, tighter stomach that boosts your confidence. 

Abdominoplasty is usually recommended for those who have loose or sagging skin in the abdominal area. The procedure may include liposuction if you have excess fat or would benefit from sculpting of your abdomen and flanks. This procedure is also performed as a component of a mommy makeover to correct the effects of pregnancy. 

How is a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Performed?

A tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia. The incision is made across the lower abdomen, and the length varies depending on the amount of loose skin you have and other factors. Some individuals may benefit from liposuction alone or a modified tummy tuck with a smaller incision. 

During the procedure, your surgeon lifts and tightens the skin and removes the excess, then uses liposuction to remove stubborn fat. If the abdominal muscles have separated, a common result of pregnancy, they are repaired during abdominoplasty. Each tummy tuck is customized to your unique needs. 

What is Recovery Like After a Tummy Tuck?

The time you will need to recover after a tummy tuck depends on the details of your procedure. You can expect bruising, swelling, and soreness after surgery, especially during the first week. Most people with low-activity jobs can return after one to three weeks. You can start adding more strenuous activities back into your routine after four to six weeks, depending on your surgeon’s recommendations. 

What Results Will I See After a Tummy Tuck?

You will often be able to see changes immediately after abdominoplasty. However, your results will look different since the area is swollen. Most of the swelling resolves within the first few weeks, although it can take six months or more to disappear completely. 

We recommend a healthy lifestyle to maintain your tummy tuck results. The appearance of your abdomen can change if you lose or gain a large amount of weight. A tummy tuck is usually not recommended for individuals planning to become pregnant in the future since it would undo your results. 

Take the Next Step

Interested in learning more about our tummy tuck for yourself? Schedule a consultation at El Paso Cosmetic Surgery in El Paso, TX today by calling or texting (915) 351-1116.