Article: Tummy Tuck

Time can be your worst enemy. As the years pass you may see your formerly fit, firm abdomen looking flabby or loose, with excess fat, skin and tissue.

Men and women alike experience a relaxation of the skin and muscle structure, developing fatty deposits on the abdomen due to aging or after significant changes in weight. Women often struggle with a loose, flabby tummy after going through pregnancy – and no diet or exercise can resolve the problem. A tummy tuck in Maryland performed by leading plastic surgeon Dr. Shermak can help you contour your tummy zone to restore the fit, firm look of youth. Her years of experience and innovative surgical techniques have led to her reputation as the top-ranked plastic surgeon in the Baltimore area.

What can a tummy tuck improve?

A tummy tuck, medically termed an abdominoplasty, tightens the abdominal muscles and removes excess skin and tissue, to create a flatter, firmer, abdomen. Men and women may consider a tummy tuck if they experience:

Loose or hanging skin on their stomach
Excess fat and tissue on the abdomen
Stretch marks
Weakened or split abdominal muscles
Decreased self-confidence

Women who suffered excessive stretching during pregnancy that damaged the abdomen are likely candidates for a tummy tuck, or men and women who are unhappy with the appearance of a bulging, drooping, or flabby tummy that diet and exercise won’t resolve. Pregnancy, prior surgery, injuries, or the passage of time can weaken the abdominal muscles, so they no longer look firm and fit. A tummy tuck performed by top-rated plastic surgeon in Baltimore, Dr. Shermak can help you look and feel your best – and wear form-fitting clothing with confidence.

The Differences Between a Tummy Tuck and Liposuction

A tummy tuck typically involves an incision across the lower abdomen that allows the surgeon to tighten the muscle structure and remove any excess skin and tissue. Liposuction is often performed to remove stubborn fat on the abdomen and love handles. Liposuction is beneficial to those who have unwanted fatty deposits on the midsection, but a tummy tuck is the only way to tighten split or loose muscles, a bulging tummy, or drooping skin and tissue.

Can my tummy tuck be combined with other procedures?

A tummy tuck may be combined with other surgical procedures. It is commonly paired with liposuction on the stomach, back, or love handles to create a trim, fit, flat abdomen. Liposuction can be performed almost any location on the body where pockets of unwanted fat linger. A tummy tuck is also commonly combined with a breast augmentation, breast lift, or both. The combination is often referred to as a Mommy Makeover because of its popularity with mothers who want to restore a post-baby body. Our talented cosmetic surgeon will create a comprehensive treatment plan to help you look younger, fit, and firm, with a perfectly contoured figure – free from the damage done to your body from pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Tummy Tuck Incision Patterns

The surgical incision is typically placed on the lower abdomen just above the pubic area. The exact location can vary slightly, but Dr. Shermak places the incision so it will be hidden and not visible in revealing clothing.

The extent of your tummy tuck procedure will determine the length of the incision. A standard tummy tuck will extend from approximately one hip bone to the other.

An extended tummy tuck is performed on patients with an excess of loose skin, typically in patients who have had significant weight loss. The incision may extend outward to the sides to allow for more manipulation of the skin and muscles. A mini tummy tuck has a narrower incision. This surgery is appropriate for patients who have loose skin, fat, and tissue below the belly button. A mini tummy tuck involves a smaller incision and typically a shorter recovery time.

Will I have visible scarring?

As with most surgeries, you have a scar at the incision site on your lower abdomen. Dr. Shermak will provide instructions for incision management so it heals correctly and becomes a thin white line, barely visible for most patients. A compression garment worn after surgery helps to reduce swelling and promote healing.

Moisturizing and massaging the area will also control development of scar tissue. Avoid tanning the incision site, even after you have completely healed. Prolonged sun exposure can make scars darker. Use products and clothing that are non-irritating and loose throughout recovery, so the incision heals as it should.

Is there a way to cosmetically erase my scar?

The abdominoplasty scar on your lower abdomen will be hidden by undergarments, clothing, or most bathing suits. It will also heal down to a thin line with time and care. Dr. Shermak offers scar reduction treatments when needed.

What to Expect After a Tummy Tuck

You will need approximately two weeks of recovery time before returning to work. Your sutures will be removed after one week. Swelling, bruising, or discomfort are common in the early stages of healing but are managed with prescription pain medication. You need to rest, take it easy, and focus on healing. Plan on having help from a friend or family member during the first few days after your procedure. You will be able to resume light activity within a week of surgery, though you should avoid strenuous exercise at least one to two months, or until Dr. Shermak approves it.

Tummy Tuck Benefits

A tummy tuck can help you achieve a tauter, more athletic, flat abdomen that looks youthful and firm – and leaves you feeling empowered and confident. The procedure with tighten your abdominal muscles, reduce the appearance of stretch marks (often removing those on the lower abdomen), and restore a more attractive body shape.