What is a Tummy Tuck?
A Tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is the process of removing loose skin or excess fat concentrated in the abdomen. The procedure consists of removing excess skin and fat from the lower and middle areas of your abdomen, and tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall.

Do I need a Tummy Tuck?
Many people, both men and women, want a tight, flat stomach, but a diet just does not provide the desired results. Long-term changes affect the bodies of people who have been pregnant, or lost or gained large amounts of weight. These changes are impossible to get rid of alone, which is why Dr. Youssef recommends that you set up a free consultation to discuss which type of abdominoplasty you should consider.

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What kind of Tummy Tuck do I need?
There are several types of abdominoplasty, some of which include lipoabdominoplasty, mini abdominoplasty (partial), extended abdominoplasty and circumferential abdominoplasty.

A full tummy tuck takes anywhere between two to five hours, and includes excess skin and fat removal, and muscle tightening. Two incisions are made, the first from hipbone to hipbone, the second to free the belly button. Your fat is then separated from the abdominal wall exposing your abdominal muscles. The muscles are then tightened and stitched into place, followed by the removal of any excess skin, fat and fluids. <

A partial tummy tuck takes about an hour or two, and does not require the moving of the naval. People who’s tummy’s hang over their waist slightly are ideal candidates for the mini (partial) tummy tuck. After your surgery, whether you have a full or partial abdominoplasty, you will need stitches and dressing, and are required to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and discomfort.

The best procedure for you is dependent on the degree of excess fat, amount of stretched skin, and loose, separated abdominal muscles.

Am I an ideal candidate for a Tummy Tuck procedure?
Those who have lost a lot of weight may have excess abdominal skin they would like removed, where as those who have gained lots of weight may have excess abdominal fat. In addition to aging, the aforementioned cases will also weaken and separate abdominal muscles, making them an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck or other forms of abdominoplasty.

After getting abdominoplasty you should take about two to four weeks off from work depending on the degree of your surgery. You will not be able to stand up straight right away because your waist will be bent. Your belly may be bruised or swollen, but any pain or discomfort should subside within a week. If you do experience uncomfortable pain you can take paid medication to help reduce the conditions. You should not do anything to strain your abdomen such as pushing, running, lifting, sex, jogging, or housework for the first two weeks. However, you are encouraged to start walking as soon as possible.

What are the side effects from getting a Tummy Tuck?
While it is rare for patients who undergo abdominoplasty to experience any complications due to the straightforwardness of the procedure, there are some cases where side-effects do occur. These side-effects can include blood to collect under the skin (Hematoma), collection of fluids under the skin (Seroma), an infection, blood clots, asymmetry and problems with the healing of the incision sites. Dr. Youssef recommends that to decrease the likeliness of these side effects you wear your compression garments and change dressing often.