Tummy Tuck Procedure on Cape Cod in Plymouth & Hyannis
A tummy tuck, also referred to as an abdominoplasty, is a treatment that removes both fat and skin from around the abdominal region. It is a surgical treatment that our board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Michael Loffredo and Dr. Seth Jones, have helped countless patients with. The ideal patient for this procedure is near their normal body weight but has access skin and fat in the abdominal region. For example, many women after pregnancy fall into this category and get an abdominoplasty as part of a mommy makeover treatment.
What Are The Steps For Getting A Tummy Tuck?
Before any procedure, our board-certified plastic surgeons set up a consultation with patients to discuss their goals and provide their expertise. Here at Cape & Islands Plastic Surgery, our team provides the latest in body contouring procedures, and aesthetic treatments. Combined with the years of experience our team has, we help patients pick the right treatment or treatment plan for their goals. When a tummy tuck or other surgical treatment is a good fit for our patient, we work with them to set up their appointment and answer all of their questions about the overall process including recovery time.
A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is done in a hospital under general anesthesia (meaning, the patient is asleep during the procedure). The surgery takes around three and a half hours and usually requires the patient to stay overnight in the hospital. Patients often combine this treatment with other surgical treatments. For example, mothers will combine abdominoplasties with breast lifts or other body contouring treatments as part of a mommy makeover. Combining treatments can impact your recovery and post-care instructions, which our team will go over with you.
Generally, post-operative discomfort is low. Patients who have had a c-section often state that they felt more discomfort after their c-section than after a tummy tuck. Most patients find the use of a walker to be helpful in the immediate post-operative period. Most patients are able to return to work in 2 or 3 weeks, depending, of course, on what type of work they do.*
It is common to stay overnight in the hospital after the procedure so that patients can be safely monitored and we can help with pain control. Follow-up appointments and post-care instructions are provided to the patient before they leave the hospital so that they can take care of themselves at home. Our team also prides itself on communication, so if patients have any questions leading up to or immediately after their treatment, we are always available to provide guidance.
*Individual results may vary from person to person.
See Tummy Tuck Results From Cape & Islands Plastic Surgery
Do Tummy Tuck Procedures Leave Scars?
Yes, the process of getting a Tummy Tuck does create a scar. Our surgeons have extensive experience ensuring that scars are placed optimally, and scars also tend to fade over time. Prior to surgery, Dr. Loffredo and Dr. Jones will discuss with patients their options on where the scar will be located. Patients are encouraged to bring articles of clothing (e.g., bathing suit or pants) to their pre-operative visit to help determine their optimal scar location. After tummy tuck surgery, many patients comment on how nicely their clothes fit, especially pants.
What is a "Mini" Tummy Tuck?
A mini-abdominoplasty or mini tummy tuck removes sagging skin around the abdominal area, but there is no plication of the true abdominal wall like a traditional abdominoplasty. Because of this, a patient who receives a mini tummy tuck will see less dramatic results. When it comes to body contouring, our goal at Cape & Islands Plastic Surgery is to help match patients to the perfect treatment or treatment plan based on their goals. We make decisions based on a patient’s desired results, treatment areas, previous experiences, and preferences. For more information, click below to learn about mini tummy tucks or give us a call to set up your consultation.
