Abdominoplasty

What is an Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)?

This procedure flattens the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat while tightening the abdominal muscles. Abdominoplasty can be safely combined with liposuction of the abdomen, flanks and hips and even the upper back (“bra strap roll”) to create a circumferential improvement of the entire waist. Abdominoplasty surgery is particularly beneficial to women who have undergone numerous pregnancies and have stretched abdominal muscle and skin. Also abdominoplasty can markedly improve the appearance of the waist in patients who have experienced massive weight loss either by diet or via bariatric (weight loss) surgery.

Am I a candidate for this procedure?

Women who are in relatively good shape and have no major health problems, but can’t lose their “pooch” (localized fat of the lower abdomen) through diet or exercise or patients with excessive loose skin are the best candidates for a traditional abdominoplasty. Candidates with a minimum of excess skin and a weak, bulging lower abdominal wall may benefit from an endoscopic abdominoplasty. This procedure eliminates the need for a hip-to-hip incision, the belly button is not violated and reduces recovery time. However, there are several different surgical approaches to maximize a patient’s abdominal contour depending on their unique needs. You may be a candidate for a mini-abdominoplasty which minimizes the length of the abdominal scar and the patient’s belly button is not violated. Patients may require a formal abdominoplasty without liposuction, or more extensive surgery involving liposuction to maximize abdominal contour. Dr. Bradley provides a detailed discussion regarding all of your options which are suited to your particular needs and explains the risks and benefits of your surgery during your consultation. Men who have lost a massive amount of weight and have excessive hanging skin can also benefit from abdominoplasty surgery.

For a more detailed explanation regarding abdominoplasty surgery options, please call Dr. Bradley at (954) 446-6464 to schedule your consultation.

How long does the procedure take to perform?

The procedure lasts from 2 to 5 hours depending on the extent of surgery and individual circumstances. The procedure can be performed safely and effectively as an outpatient with general anesthesia.

How do I prepare for surgery?

Dr. Bradley will evaluate your fat deposits, skin elasticity and abdominal musculature. When discussing your expectations, be sure to be up-front and honest. It’s important to tell Dr. Bradley if you smoke or are taking any vitamins, herbal supplements, medications, or drugs. Smoking can inhibit the healing process a great deal. Dr. Bradley thoroughly discusses the detrimental effects of smoking with his patients and strongly encourages patients to completely stop smoking for several weeks before and after surgery.

What does surgery involve?

Dr. Bradley will make an incision above the pubic area and will extent a variable length towards each hip bone. The length of the incision will be determined by how much improvement each patient desires. Depending on the type of abdominoplasty procedure the naval is released from surrounding tissue and new belly button maybe created. The vertical abdominal muscles are tightened and stitched into their new position. The abdominoplasty incision is then sutured together, usually with sutures which are placed inside and dissolve by themselves so there is no need for suture removal at a later date. Drainage tubes are usually placed to drain excess fluid which helps minimize wound healing problems. Patients then are placed in a post operative compression garment to provide gentle support which aids the healing process and provides significant patient comfort.

Will I spend the night in your facility or be released after surgery?

Dr. Timothy Bradley performs all abdominoplasty procedures in his surgical facility in Fort Walton Beach. You will be discharged home after your surgery. Dr. Bradley provides all of the details for your post operative care to ensure safety and comfort.

When can I return to my normal lifestyle?

After the surgery, you can return to work in 1 to 3 weeks depending on the extent of your surgery. It will take 4 to 6 weeks before you can engage in more strenuous activity. Once again, the more surgery involved the longer the recovery period, but the wait is well worth it. There are few procedures which can alter your overall appearance like abdominoplasty surgery can. The fading and flattening of scars should occur beginning around 3 months and the scar quality continues to improve for more than a year.

Will I need a follow-up visit?

Yes. Dr. Bradley strives to provide comprehensive personal follow-up visits to monitor your progress and answer any post-operative questions. You will be given explicit instructions on how and when to increase your activity level as you recover.