Ideal Abdominoplasty Candidates
An abdominoplasty, also called a tummy tuck, is a popular way to address sagging abdominal skin, love handles, a spare tire, and other aesthetic abdominal issues.
It is an ideal treatment for individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery, since they are often left with excess drooping abdominal skin. Women with loose skin, excess stubborn fat, and diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles) after pregnancy are also excellent candidates for abdominoplasty.
Tummy tucks are specifically used for abdominal contouring and are never alternatives to weight loss. Patients should be at or near their ideal BMI before undergoing this procedure.
Women planning to get pregnant should wait until after childbirth to get their tummy tuck, since pregnancy can negatively affect the procedure’s results.
How Should I Prepare for My Abdominoplasty?
The first step in abdominoplasty preparation is your consultation with Dr. Ganchi. During this consultation, the two of you will discuss your complete medical history and your aesthetic goals, along with the full details of the procedure. You will be able to ask any questions you may have and can look over abdominoplasty before-and-after photos.
After your consultation, it’s recommended that you take the following preparation steps:
- Arrange for a friend or family member to take you home after treatment.
- Optimize your nutrition and health prior surgery to allow for best results.
- If you smoke, stop smoking for a full two weeks before the surgery.
- Ensure your home is stocked with a cold compress, petroleum jelly, and loose-fitting clothing.
- Avoid taking NSAIDs and certain supplements as directed by Dr. Ganchi.
Full Abdominoplasty
A full tummy tuck, or traditional abdominoplasty, is perfect for those who require a fair amount of correction in the abdominal region. It is usually an outpatient procedure. This surgery involves the application of general anesthesia and can take around two hours to perform.
A full abdominoplasty procedure involves Dr. Ganchi creating a horizontal curved incision from hipbone to hipbone. This incision can be easily hidden by a swimsuit. An incision may also be made around the belly button, and the belly button will be moved during the procedure.
After incisions have been made, Dr. Ganchi removes excess skin with a scalpel. He can use liposuction to remove excess fat, inserting a cannula into the region and suctioning out the fatty tissue. He can also rejoin and tighten sagging abdominal-wall muscles using internal sutures.
Finally, the remaining skin is tightened, and then all incisions are closed using sutures. Drainage tubes will be inserted under the skin to remove extra fluid, helping to avoid hematomas and seromas.
Before & Afters
The Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck, or partial abdominoplasty, is a less-invasive option that many patients prefer due to its shorter recovery period. Mini tummy tucks are ideal for those looking to remove a stomach bulge, pouch, stretch marks, or excess skin specifically from the lower abdomen.
During a partial abdominoplasty, a shorter horizontal incision is made. This incision is located between the pubic hairline and the belly button. Because only the lower abdomen is being targeted, there is no need for an incision around the belly button, and the procedure involves no movement of the belly button.
The Abdominoplasty Healing Process
After the surgery, patients will return home to rest. There will be bruising and swelling in the abdominal area for a time. Wearing an abdominal binder aids in the healing process and controls swelling. Any soreness can be addressed with the help of pain-control medication as prescribed.
Patients must stay home from work for two to three weeks. They must also avoid sports, heavy exercise, and other physically taxing activities in order to allow incisions to heal properly. Once all healing has taken place, patients can enjoy their final results, which will be long-lasting.
How Much Does an Abdominoplasty Cost?
Tummy tuck surgery is different for every patient, and because of this, there is no one set cost for it. The price of abdominoplasty is determined based on whether the patient chose a full or mini tummy tuck, what type of anesthesia was used, and many other factors.
Set Up Your Tummy Tuck Consultation
To get the contoured tummy you’ve been working towards, contact Ganchi Plastic Surgery and learn more about abdominoplasty in New Jersey. Schedule your consultation today to get started.
