Tummy Tuck

Am I a Candidate for Abdominoplasty?

You may be a candidate for a tummy tuck procedure if you experience loose skin in the stomach area or weakened abdominal muscles. Ideal candidates are in good health, do not smoke, and have realistic expectations of their results.

Although abdominoplasty can reduce some weight, patients should be near their ideal weight before undergoing surgery. This will allow your surgeon to remove as much skin and tissue as possible to achieve the best tummy tuck results.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Borko to determine if abdominoplasty is right for you.

During your consultation, Dr. Borko will perform a physical evaluation and discuss your goals. He will then create a personalized treatment plan based on your needs.

What Kind of Anesthesia Is Used During a Tummy Tuck?

Your surgery will likely be performed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort. However, Dr. Borko may use a local anesthetic with a sedative to relax qualifying patients instead.

What Are My Options for Tummy Tuck Surgery?

For abdominoplasty surgery, you have two options: complete tummy tuck and mini tummy tuck.

A complete tummy tuck is beneficial for patients who need significant correction, with laxity in both the upper and lower abdomen. A mini tummy tuck is for patients with minimal sagging skin on their lower abdomen. Both procedures can remove stretch marks that appear on the lower abdominal skin that is removed.

Complete (Full) Tummy Tuck

During a complete tummy tuck, Dr. Borko will make a long incision above the pubic area from hip bone to hip bone. The full tummy tuck may also involve a second incision to reposition the navel (belly button).

Dr. Borko will then separate the skin from the abdominal wall to reveal the muscles, which are then tightened and sutured together. The skin is then pulled tight over the new abdominal contours, and excess skin is removed.

Mini Tummy Tuck

During a mini abdominoplasty, a smaller incision is made above the pubic area. The skin is separated between the incision line and the navel. Excess skin is removed, and incisions are closed.

Liposuction

In many cases, Dr. Borko performs liposuction surgery in combination with a tummy tuck to achieve the best results. Liposuction is performed first to remove excess fat, and then abdominoplasty techniques are used to sculpt the hips and waist.

Can I Drive Home After My Abdominoplasty?

Since your abdominoplasty will be performed under anesthesia or sedation, you will not be able to drive yourself home. Please plan to have someone drive you home.

How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Tummy Tuck?

Tummy tuck recovery may be extensive if you underwent significant corrections. After surgery, you should expect pain and swelling for the first couple of days. This can be managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain medication. Most patients can be released in a few hours. However, depending on the extent of surgery, you may need to stay a few nights in the hospital for observation.

Please be sure to follow all post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Borko to minimize your risk of complications and side effects during the healing process. He will give you specific instructions for sleeping, showering, and changing your dressings.

Surface stitches will be removed in five to seven days, and deeper sutures will come out in a few weeks.

When Can I Return to Work After Abdominoplasty?

Patients are typically able to return to work and other responsibilities within two weeks. Some patients may need a little more recovery time and should take three to four weeks to recuperate.

What Results Can I Expect From Abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty works to eliminate excess skin and tighten the tissues in the abdomen to create a slimmer appearance. Results will be visible immediately after surgery. However, bruising and swelling can temporarily camouflage the appearance of your results.

You will be able to fully enjoy your new midsection in a few months once all residual swelling resolves.

How Much Is a Tummy Tuck?

The cost of your tummy tuck will depend on the amount of correction needed and the surgical techniques used to perform your procedure. Generally, tummy tuck cost depends on surgeon fees, anesthesia fees, operating room fees, and the procedure’s location.

A specific tummy tuck price quote will be provided to you at your consultation with Dr. Borko.

What Are the Risks of Tummy Tuck Surgery?

When performed by a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon such as Dr. Borko, abdominoplasty is a generally safe procedure. However, risks are present with all surgeries.

These risks include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Anesthesia risks
• Unfavorable scarring

Please speak with Dr. Borko if you are concerned regarding the risks of abdominoplasty. He can answer any questions you may have and address your concerns.

Interested in Learning More About Tummy Tuck Surgery?

If you are interested in learning more about how you can benefit from a tummy tuck, please contact Dr. Borko’s office to schedule your consultation.