Tummy Tuck in New York, NY
Core strength is an elusive, enticing goal for so many. A flabby or sagging abdomen can develop in both men and women for several reasons. From genetic factors that affect skin elasticity to recent weight loss, these causes leave excess abdominal skin that impacts the lives of hundreds of thousands of people every year. In most cases, an undefined abdominal appearance is the result of unwanted skin and loose abdominal muscles, which often cannot be treated even through diligent diet and exercise. A tummy tuck removes excess abdominal tissue and tightens the abdominal muscles to create a firmer, more defined abdominal contour.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
Abdominoplasty, or a tummy tuck, is a cosmetic procedure designed to slim and contour the midsection when loose skin and pockets of fat detract from its appearance. After pregnancy or massive weight loss, the abdominal muscles can become stretched, along with an excess of skin and fat, contributing to a belly pouch that is resistant to diet and exercise. A tummy tuck is the only plastic surgery procedure that can repair stretched abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) for a long-term solution.
Who Is a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
Patients seeking a tummy tuck should be in good health and have realistic expectations about their results. The tummy tuck procedure can significantly improve the appearance of patients with flabby abdomens or undefined contours. Both men and women could benefit from a tummy tuck if they suffer from one or more of the following:
- Skin laxity following weight loss
- Age-related skin sagging
- Weakened abdominal muscles following pregnancy
- Lower back pain caused by weakened abdominal muscles
- Excess abdominal fat
How Is a Tummy Tuck Performed in New York, NY?
All tummy tuck surgeries are performed with the patient under general anesthesia, which ensures a safe and painless procedure. To achieve a trimmer, flatter abdominal appearance for his patients, Dr. Cha will remove abdominal tissue and tighten the underlying muscles.
To begin, a thin incision is placed along the lower abdomen beneath the bikini line, and a second incision may be placed around the navel if necessary. Through the incision(s), Dr. Cha can pull loose or separated abdominal muscles together and reinforce the abdominal wall with sutures. Excess tissue is trimmed away. The remaining skin is draped to highlight the new abdominal contour, and incisions are then closed.
Mini Tummy Tuck
The mini tummy tuck is ideal for patients with minimal skin sagging in the upper abdomen but pronounced lower abdominal drooping. This is common for women following pregnancy when the abdominal muscles have become separated and cannot be restored through exercise. The mini tummy tuck uses a short incision placed low on the abdomen. The abdominal muscles are tightened, and excess skin is trimmed away. While mini tummy tucks still require the use of general anesthesia, they are less invasive than a traditional tummy tuck and may result in a shorter recovery period.
Extended Tummy Tuck
An extended tummy tuck is typically reserved for patients following massive weight loss. It can be performed as a stand-alone procedure or in conjunction with other body contouring procedures commonly performed after massive weight loss, such as a breast lift or reduction. The extended tummy tuck is designed to treat excess skin around the hips and back, which is common in patients who have recently lost a significant amount of weight. An extended tummy tuck will require a more lengthy incision that runs along the lower abdomen, around the hips, and possibly along the lower back.
Liposuction for Definition
Most patients will benefit from the removal of unwanted abdominal fat. Liposuction can be combined with any tummy tuck procedure to enhance your results. Besides creating a more pronounced curvature of the hips, liposuction can be used to achieve a better silhouette by defining the contours of your abdomen.
What Can I Expect During My Tummy Tuck Recovery?
You will experience some mild bruising and swelling following your surgery. Drains may be placed, and a compression garment should be worn to reduce swelling and improve healing. Patients will be required to limit their physical activity following the procedure. Most people can return to work within two weeks of their surgery and can resume their regular exercise program after four weeks. Swelling can last up to six weeks, which can temporarily affect the appearance of your results. Once the swelling has subsided, you should begin to notice that your abdomen is firmer and more toned. While tummy tuck recovery varies from person to person, here are some helpful tips for a speedy recovery:
- Follow Dr. Cha’s instructions as best you can
- Get as much rest as possible and stay hydrated
- Incorporate light movement like walking to increase blood circulation
- Call our office if you have any questions or concerns throughout your recovery period
When Will I See My Tummy Tuck Results?
Immediately following your tummy tuck, you will be wrapped in protective gauze or bandages, and you will likely have a compression garment on as well. This post-surgical garment helps to keep the skin taut so that it can more easily retract, as well as reduce swelling and speed healing. So, although you may notice that your midsection is slimmer and flatter than before, it will take some time to see the final results of your tummy tuck. Once the swelling subsides, about two weeks post-op, you will begin to see the new contours of your abdomen. It is not uncommon for tummy tuck results to continue to improve for up to a year after surgery.
Tummy tuck surgery is designed to provide long-lasting abdominal support and results. However, a tummy tuck does not prevent additional weight gain, which can affect the quality of the results. It is recommended that patients follow a healthy lifestyle to maintain their results.
If you are looking to gain a firmer and fitter abdominal contour through tummy tuck surgery, please schedule your consultation with Dr. Cha today. Contact our office at (212)-717-2222 or fill out our online contact form for additional information.
Tummy Tuck FAQ
How much does a tummy tuck cost in New York, NY?
Every tummy tuck that Dr. Cha performs is customized exclusively for the patient; no two tummy tucks are the same. Therefore, the cost of a tummy tuck in NY will vary depending on the specifics of the surgical plan, such as the type of tummy tuck (traditional, mini, or extended), the amount of necessary correction, anesthesia fees, and facility fees.
Once Dr. Cha creates your custom surgical plan, he will be happy to provide you with an accurate cost estimate.
Does a tummy tuck leave visible scars?
Some scarring can develop following the tummy tuck procedure. The severity of scarring ultimately depends on your body’s natural healing process. Patients with more extensive procedures may experience more scarring. However, most patients feel that the amount of scarring is worth the long-term results, and most scarring can be easily hidden with swimsuits or underwear and fades over time.
When will I be able to return to normal activities after tummy tuck surgery?
It is important to follow your recovery guidelines as best you can, which will include limitations on movement and activities. For example, it will be difficult to stand at your full height for at least a week, and lifting your arms above your head will be equally difficult.
While each patient is different, it may take about two weeks for you to feel up to going about your normal activities, including doing housework. Be sure to listen to your body and take it slow; by caring for yourself early on, you can avoid a longer and more limiting recovery period.
Are tummy tuck results permanent?
Dr. Cha will permanently remove skin and fat and surgically tighten your abdominal wall during a tummy tuck–the results are intended to be permanent. However, nothing can stop the natural aging process, and weight fluctuations or pregnancy can certainly stretch out the abdomen and skin again. For the best results, it is essential to maintain a consistent, healthy weight through regular exercise and a nutritious diet. You should also plan your tummy tuck so that additional pregnancies do not interfere with your results.
Following these guidelines can result in a permanent tummy tuck result.
Are there any risks associated with tummy tuck surgery?
Any surgery carries some risk. While rare, some possible risks of tummy tuck surgery include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Poor healing
However, by seeing a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Cha and complying with all necessary medical testing and regulations, a tummy tuck is considered a safe procedure. Dr. Cha will discuss the risks and benefits of a tummy tuck during your consultation, as well as take the time to carefully review your candidacy to ensure safety.
How do I choose a tummy tuck surgeon in NY?
There are a number of factors to consider when looking for a New York plastic surgeon for a tummy tuck. Safety should be paramount: look for a plastic surgeon who is board certified, as this designates their commitment to performing above and beyond through additional training and testing.
Dr. Cha is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, has over two decades of experience, and upholds a commitment to honesty, integrity, and safety. The best way to find out if a plastic surgeon is a good match for you is through a comprehensive consultation; Dr. Cha will listen to your goals, concerns, and ideas and work with you to create a surgical plan that is best for you.
Why choose Fifth Ave Plastic Surgery for a tummy tuck?
Fifth Ave Plastic Surgery is the result of decades of surgical experience, a commitment to patient care, and a drive for excellence. From our talented and compassionate plastic surgeon to our kind and knowledgeable support staff, we strive to provide a plastic surgery experience that does more than satisfy–we aim to change lives.
Our patients are our number one priority–from pre-op consultations and screenings to post-op aftercare–the patient experience is always consistent, conscientious, and authentic.