How is a Tummy Tuck Done?

Your abdominal area can experience many changes during a lifetime. Pregnancy or weight loss can leave you with sagging skin and separated muscles. A tummy tuck gives you a flat, tight stomach and restores your sculpted figure. This procedure often provides a tremendous boost of confidence. 

What is a Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty?

Sagging skin around the abdomen will not tighten by itself, and abdominal muscles that separate during pregnancy will not repair themselves. A tummy tuck corrects these issues to restore the contours you had before your body changed. Also known as abdominoplasty, this procedure can be performed alone or as part of a larger procedure like a mommy makeover. 

How is a Tummy Tuck Done?

Dr. Rankin will perform your tummy tuck under general anesthesia. The incision is low on the abdomen, so undergarments or a bikini can hide it. Dr. Rankin removes excess skin and fat and repairs the separated abdominal muscles. He lifts and tightens the skin and repositions the belly button to give you a flat, shapely abdomen. 

Not everyone needs a full tummy tuck to achieve their desired results. Those with minor laxity and excess fat in the abdominal area may benefit from a mini tummy tuck. Individuals with mild to moderate loose skin can often benefit from Renuvion®. This skin-tightening treatment can be used alone or after liposuction. 

What is Recovery Like After a Tummy Tuck?

You will experience soreness and swelling after your abdominoplasty. Most people feel better after the first week and can return to work after about two weeks. People with physically active jobs may need more time to recover. You can resume light exercise without lifting after two to four weeks. Most people can resume their usual exercise routine after four to six weeks. 

A mini tummy tuck decreases the recovery time needed and uses a much smaller incision. Renuvion® only requires a few days of recovery time. Dr. Rankin will discuss your recovery and provide you with detailed aftercare instructions. Listening to your body and taking the needed time to recover will help you achieve your best results.

What Results Will I See After a Tummy Tuck?

Your abdominal area will look swollen after the procedure. However, you will already be able to see a difference. Your results will become fully visible after a few weeks. As residual swelling resolves, your results will continue to evolve and improve for up to six months. Your abdomen will look flat and toned, letting you fit better into your clothes and feel more comfortable with your body. 

Am I a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

Good candidates for a tummy tuck should be healthy and have reasonable expectations. Abdominoplasty is not right for everyone, and some people can achieve their desired results with a less invasive approach. However, a tummy tuck is the most effective way to address significant sagging and muscle separation. 

I had the best experience beginning to end with Dr. Rankin and his staff. They are great at communication – in office, email, text, and phone. They are helpful, supportive, kind, and positive. I loved the whole process & the results of the procedure Dr. Rankin did. I highly recommend that you visit Dr. Rankin for any and all plastic surgery needs!

Lynne H.

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Next Steps

If you are interested in a tummy tuck, please reach out to our qualified staff to schedule a consultation at one of our convenient locations in Walnut Creek and Greenbrae. Give us a call at (925) 856-4800 or fill out our online form. Helping you achieve your cosmetic goals is an honor and a privilege at NorCal Plastic Surgery, proudly serving the East Bay, Marin County, and the greater San Francisco Bay Area. We look forward to hearing from you.