Sergio M. Zamora MD, FACS offers tummy tuck procedures for men and women who live in Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach and the surrounding communities in Florida.
What Is A Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a major surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from your middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of your abdominal wall. The surgery is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal, as excessive skin and fat, as well as abdominal wall weaknesses, are all addressed with this procedure. The procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen, however, it does produce a scar which, depending on the extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it, can extend from hip to hip, although most patients find this is well worth it for the benefits of having a tighter, firmer abdomen.
Mini Tummy Tuck
If your cosmetic concern is more related to a “pooch” below the belly button, Dr. Zamora may recommend a mini tummy tuck, which addresses excess skin and fat in the lower abdominal region, and is less invasive than a full tummy tuck.
Benefits of a Tummy Tuck
Do you have an excessive amount of fat in your abdomen or around your waistline? Tummy tucks are more beneficial than liposuction to those with extreme degrees of lower abdominal skin laxity, extensive stretch marks, or severely stretched abdominal muscles as a result of pregnancy. Like any body contouring procedure, a tummy tuck should not be used as a substitute for weight loss, and a tummy tuck should only be sought if diet and exercise have been unsuccessful. Many women feel that a tummy tuck will help them achieve the stomach they desire, which in turn increases their sense of self-esteem and their body image.
Who Is The Ideal Candidate For A Tummy Tuck?
The best candidates for a tummy tuck are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that will not respond to diet or exercise. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved with a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck is not for everyone, and patients who intend to lose a lot of weight should postpone this surgery, and in addition women who plan future pregnancies should wait for a tummy tuck as well, as vertical muscles in your abdomen that are tightened during surgery could have a tendency to separate again during a future pregnancy.
What Do I Need To Do Before A Tummy Tuck?
Dr. Zamora will provide you with a list of pre-operative requirements once you have scheduled your surgery. In preparing for your tummy tuck surgery, you should try to take care of household responsibilities beforehand, such as taking care of chores, obtaining pet or child care, and ensuring that your recovery area is amply stocked with ice packs and comfortable clothing, along with your medication, and be sure to have your prescriptions filled before your tummy tuck surgery. You should try to set up your rest area on the first floor of your home to avoid stairs, and in addition, you should arrange to have someone drive you home from your tummy tuck surgery and to be with you for the first 24 hours.
What Should I Expect On The Day Of My Tummy Tuck?
After your comfort is ensured through anesthesia Dr. Zamora will make an incision from hip to hip along the bikini line. The skin is separated from the abdominal wall, and the rectus muscles are tightened and stitched into a new position, effectively reducing the waistline. After the muscles are tightened, excess skin is stretched and removed, and the incision is closed with sutures.
How Long Does It Take To Perform A Tummy Tuck?
The procedure can take anywhere from two to three hours, depending on how much fat or skin needs to be removed and the desired look you wish to achieve.
What To Expect After A Tummy Tuck?
Most tummy tuck patients will spend one night in the hospital following their tummy tuck. Sometimes Drain tubes are left in place for a few days, and you might experience some swelling or discomfort, but you can expect to be up and around in one to two weeks. If your job keeps you sedentary, you may plan on returning to work after two weeks, with the understanding that you will still have discomfort with any motion. Oftentimes the skin of your abdomen remains partially or completely numb for several months or longer. Tingling, burning or shooting pains indicate regeneration of the small sensory nerves, but this feeling will disappear with time. Your abdomen may feel tight for about a month or longer, and if you have had a muscle repair as well, you will feel the most tightness down the middle of your abdomen where Dr. Zamora has actually repaired your muscles. Because the tummy tuck or abdominoplasty involves removal of the extra abdominal skin and typically the tightening of you abdominal muscles, you may experience some difficulty standing up straight for a few days to two weeks. During this period, you may find it more comfortable to place a pillow or two under your knees while in bed; however, the tightness will gradually disappear as you heal.
Will I Have Scars After Getting A Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck does produce a scar, however, if you are realistic in your expectations and prepared for the consequences of a scar and a recovery period, the quality of life enhancing benefits of a tummy tuck from Dr. Zamora may be just right for you.
When Will I See The Results?
Your results from your tummy tuck will emerge gradually as your swelling following your surgery diminishes. It’s important to note that a tummy tuck will not keep the weight off forever, and if you continue to have a poor diet, do not exercise, or get pregnant again, you will gaining weight and your stomach will likely expand. While a tummy tuck will help flatten your stomach and provide a firmer, more toned appearance, it will not necessarily provide you with a “six-pack.” It may, however, make it easier for you to achieve a six-pack through diet and exercise since extra fat and skin will have already been removed.
What Are Possible Complications Of A Tummy Tuck?
The complications of a tummy tuck that apply to your procedure will be discussed in your initial consultation.
How Long Will The Results Of A Tummy Tuck Last?
Your results of a tummy tuck treatment involve the removal of fat and excess skin, which if maintained, will last a lifetime. Tummy tucks, whether lower abdominal or full, produce excellent results for patients with weakened abdominal muscles or excess skin, and in most cases, if you follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly, your results will be long lasting.
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost in Daytona Beach?
Because each patient has a different goal in mind, your tummy tuck costs will vary. During your consultation, all of your questions will be answered, and we will give you a better idea of what to expect for your fee. Fees are typically paid in advance, and in addition to accepting cash, checks, and most major credit cards, we also offer convenient financing.