What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and fat in the abdomen to create a smoother, firmer appearance. Even those at a healthy weight can have a hard time developing a firm stomach through diet and exercise due to the stubbornness of body fat in the area. Many patients find that they can achieve the toned look that they desire thanks to a tummy tuck.
Tummy Tuck
What is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
A mini tummy tuck serves the same purpose as a traditional tummy tuck, but it is performed using smaller incisions and therefore is ideal for patients who need less work done. Mini tummy tucks are most effective for patients looking for tummy tuck results below the belly button.
How is a Tummy Tuck Performed?
At Anh Vu, M.D., every tummy tuck begins with an in-depth consultation with Dr. Anh Vu. During this consultation, Dr. Vu carefully plans out the surgery based upon the patient's aesthetic goals. Body sculpting procedures can create long-term, life-changing results, so he spends a substantial amount of time discussing the procedure with the patient to ensure that they achieve the results they desire. Dr. Vu is incredibly meticulous during surgery, which typically involves incisions along the pubic area that can extend towards the hips for a full tummy tuck. Then, excess skin and fat is removed and the procedure is complete. All tummy tucks are performed under anesthesia so that patients remain comfortable throughout treatment.
What Can I Expect After My Tummy Tuck?
Patients are recommended to take about two weeks away from work and other normal activities to allow the body to properly heal. During this time, it is essential that patients avoid any strenuous activities and get as much rest as possible. It is common for patients to experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort after treatment, although patients who have had a mini tummy tuck will have less side effects and a shorter recovery period. Following your procedure, Dr. Vu will review instructions for specific post-surgery care and discuss the timing of any follow-up appointments.
How Long Do the Results from a Tummy Tuck Last?
When performed by an experienced and qualified surgeon like Dr. Anh Vu, the results from a tummy tuck can last for years and look completely natural. However, these procedures do not prevent further changes that may occur due to aging or weight gain.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
If you would like to achieve a firmer, more toned appearance in the stomach, you may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck. If you think you are a good candidate, call us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Anh Vu. During your consultation, Dr. Vu will review all possible treatments with you and help determine what the best treatment option will be based on the results you hope to achieve. Tummy tucks are considered cosmetic treatments, meaning that they are not covered by insurance. However, we accept a variety of payment options and financing to make our services accessible to all of our patients.
Tummy Tuck FAQs
What exactly does a tummy tuck do?
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and fat in the abdomen to create a smoother, firmer appearance. Even those at a healthy weight can have a hard time developing a firm stomach through diet and exercise due to the stubbornness of body fat in the area. This surgery typically involves incisions along the pubic area that can extend towards the hips for a full tummy tuck. Then, excess skin and fat is removed and the abdominal muscles tightened to enhance the contour of the abdomen. All tummy tucks are performed under anesthesia so that patients remain comfortable throughout treatment.
How much weight do you lose with a tummy tuck?
It is important to note that a tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure. The weight loss that results from treatment is an effect of removing excess skin and fat. While the tummy tuck procedure is performed to enhance the figure and not achieve weight loss, patients often achieve results that give the appearance of weight loss even though the change on the scale might be minor.
How long do tummy tucks last?
When performed by an experienced and qualified surgeon, the results from a tummy tuck last for years. However, a tummy tuck cannot prevent future weight gain or other changes due to the natural aging process, either of which can impact your tummy tuck results. We encourage patients to maintain healthy diet and exercise habits to maintain their results as long as possible.
Does fat come back after a tummy tuck?
No, fat is permanently removed from the body during the tummy tuck procedure. However, the removal of this fat does not prevent future weight gain. Therefore, if patients fail to maintain healthy lifestyle habits after the tummy tuck procedure, it is possible for fat to reaccumulate in the abdominal region.
How much is a full tummy tuck?
The cost of a tummy tuck will vary depending on the extent of treatment needed to produce your desired results. During your consultation, we’ll review your goals and develop a personalized treatment plan, at which time we’ll be able to provide you with the full cost of your tummy tuck treatment.
If you are considering a tummy tuck, contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation. At Anh Vu, M.D., we offer tummy tucks and other body sculpting procedures to residents living in and around St. Augustine, Jacksonville, Palm Coast, and Daytona Beach.
