Tummy Tuck in Middletown, NJ
Dr. John Taylor is a board-certified plastic surgeon at Allure Plastic Surgery Center who performs tummy tucks on patients in the Red Bank, NJ area following dramatic weight losses, pregnancies, and aging when diet and exercise does not seem to be enough.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is the surgical procedure to correct a protruding or sagging abdomen. The treated area may extend from the lower rib cage to the pubic bone and liposuction can be used to address the flanks and back. Abdominal muscles that have weakened or separated due to pregnancy, a condition called diastasis recti, can also be corrected with a tummy tuck.
Benefits of a Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck is an ideal procedure for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight or whose lower abdominal area is resistant to diet and exercise. Patients who have a tummy tuck also enjoy the following benefits:
- A tight and smooth abdominal area
- Ability to participate in various exercises and activities
- Increase in self-esteem
- Better posture
- Significant back pain relief
- Eliminate the possibility of secondary skin infections and rashes in the folds of the skin
Tummy Tuck Before and After Pictures
Tummy tucks offer the opportunity to improve abdominal laxity and regain self-confidence lost with the appearance of excess skin and fat.
How Is a Tummy Tuck Performed?
Dr. Taylor performs the tummy tuck in a fully accredited hospital or surgical facility under general anesthesia. The procedure generally takes 3 to 4 hours depending on the degree of correction needed and usually does not require an overnight hospital stay.
A full tummy tuck requires a horizontal incision above the pubic hairline as well as incision around the umbilicus (belly button). This excess fat and skin are removed, weakened abdominal muscles may be corrected and the belly button repositioned. This results in a low-lying hip-to-hip scar which will fade in time. If the problem area lies only below the belly button, then a mini tummy tuck, or limited abdominoplasty, may be performed. This results in a shorter incision line and does not require repositioning of the belly button. After surgery, a compression garment is worn to minimize swelling and support the abdomen as it heals. Drainage tubes are removed within 1 to 2 weeks. Prescription oral medications are given to control post-operative discomfort and antibiotics are taken to prevent infection. Bending, straining, and lifting should be avoided for several days.
Preparing for a Tummy Tuck
While done on an outpatient basis, a tummy tuck requires the following steps to be taken in preparing for the procedure:
- Stop smoking at least two weeks prior to the procedure
- Stop taking any aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain vitamins and other supplements at least two weeks prior to the procedure
- Alter or discontinue certain medications taken on a daily basis
- Take medication related to the procedure, if necessary
- Arrange for someone to take you to and from the procedure as well as stay with you for the first 24 hours following the procedure
Recovery from a Tummy Tuck
Although the results are immediately visible, the final results may be initially obscured by swelling and the inability to stand fully upright. Within a week or two, patients are able to return to work, standing tall and confident in their new slimmer profile. Numbness and a firm feeling over the skin’s surface will resolve in a few months and the figure-flattering final results are complete several months after the surgery. The results of a tummy tuck are technically permanent but can be greatly diminished by significant fluctuations in weight.
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?
A tummy tuck cost varies depending on the extent of the procedure and how long it takes. During your consultation, Dr. Taylor will discuss the cost with you as well as our payment options. We accept cash, checks, and most major credit cards in addition to offering financing through CareCredit®. Tummy tucks are sometimes considered medically necessary procedures and sometimes partially or fully covered by health insurance plans. We can help you determine if your insurance policy offers any coverage for this procedure. We do ask that full payment be made at least two weeks prior to the procedure for cosmetic procedures.
Is a Tummy Tuck Right for Me?
If you desire a flatter, tighter abdomen then a tummy tuck may be just what you are looking for to enhance your body image and self-confidence. Those who are not planning future pregnancies and who plan on maintaining an appropriate diet and exercise regimen are the best candidates for this procedure.
Why Choose Dr. Taylor for a Tummy Tuck?
Dr. Taylor is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has performed hundreds of tummy tucks, as well as other cosmetic procedures on patients in Red Bank, NJ. He has a passion for his work and takes great care in not only performing the procedure, but also understanding the reasons for wanting cosmetic surgery.
What to Expect During Your Tummy Tuck Consultation
Dr. John Taylor can address any questions or concerns you may have during your personalized consultation. Additionally, he takes time to evaluate your issues to determine whether a tummy tuck or other body contouring procedure may be best for you.
At Allure Plastic Surgery Center, Dr. John Taylor offers plastic and reconstructive surgery procedures as well as non-invasive advanced skin care treatments to patients in Red Bank, NJ, and the surrounding areas. Contact us to set up your consultation today.
