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Abdominoplasty

Also known as a tummy tuck. If your goal is to remove extra loose skin from your core area from weight loss and /or child birth, this is the procedure for you.

Abdominoplasty

$6995

About the procedure

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is an operation performed to flatten the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat and repairing separated muscles. When performed correctly, an abdominoplasty can be one of the most powerful form-enhancing procedures available in plastic surgery.

Common after pregnancies or major weight changes, excess skin and fat across the abdomen is often resistant to diet and exercise. Stretched or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis-recti) generate visibly poor muscle tone in this area. Stretch marks are also a common problem in this area and a tummy tuck often eliminates a majority of them. Because every case is unique, Dr. Patel will tailor your abdominoplasty to your concerns.

At your consultation, Dr. Patel will review with you the various options available for abdominal rejuvenation. He will pay close attention to skin tone, existing scars, possible hernias, fat deposits, and muscle abnormalities, as all are important factors that can influence the surgical result.

Who is a candidate for an abdominoplasty?

Good candidates have reached a stable weight, do not smoke (or plan to quit), and do not have medical conditions that prohibit safe surgery and normal wound healing. Patients whose weight has been stabilized in their weight loss program or who feel they are at their ideal weight are the best candidates for a tummy tuck. Many patients combine their tummy tuck with other cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, breast augmentation or breast reduction surgery.

There 2 types of fat in the body; subcutaneous fat and visceral fat. Only the subcutaneous fat can be addressed during a tummy tuck and liposuction. If you have a significant amount of visceral fat you will not be an ideal candidate. Dr. Patel will discuss this with you during your consultation.

Subcutaneous Fat: The fat that lies just under the skin; it acts as a buffer to support the skin and is an energy storage material. This is the fat treated with liposuction.
Visceral Fat: This is the fat that is packed around the organs. Visceral fat is not accessible by liposuction or tummy tucks and can only be reduced by diet and exercise or after bariatric weight loss surgery.

What else can you tell me about the procedure?

There are three basic techniques used to flatten a protruding abdomen: liposuction, mini tummy tuck, and full tummy tuck. The best technique for you will depend largely on your goals and your specific problem. Liposuction alone can produce a flatter abdominal wall for some. If your laxity and excess skin is below your navel, a mini tummy tuck may be right for you. For those with severe laxity of their abdominal muscle or excessive skin, a full tummy tuck may be their only solution.

A mini tummy tuck is usually performed in conjunction with liposuction of the upper abdomen and the flank areas. With a mini tummy tuck, a smaller incision is made in your bikini area and no incision is made around your belly button. Dr Patel will remove your excess skin and fat through this incision. Permanent sutures will also be placed through this incision to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. To blend the contours, Dr. Patel may recommend liposuction to the waist and abdomen during this surgery.

A full tummy tuck involves an incision around the belly button and another incision that runs from hip to hip. Your entire abdominal wall is tightened with permanent sutures, and the excess skin and fat is removed. Dr. Patel will remove your excess skin and fat through this incision. Permanent sutures will also be placed through this incision to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. To blend the contours, Dr. Patel may recommend liposuction to the waist and abdomen during this surgery.

Regardless of which procedure you have, your incisions are closed with small sutures. Small drains may also be inserted to eliminate fluid buildup. Snug elastic bandages are then applied to the area.

What should I know about taking care of myself after the procedure?

After your tummy tuck, bed rest is recommended for the first day or so. Most patients experience some numbness in the area of their abdomen, which may last for some time. Any pain or discomfort that follows surgery can be controlled with oral medication. If drains are used, they may remain in place for 7-14 days until discharge fluids decrease. Dr. Patel uses sutures that dissolve, meaning there are no sutures to remove. An abdominal support garment is often necessary for several weeks. There will be some scarring that will fade significantly over time. During your recovery, you must refrain from any strenuous activity or lifting. Most patients are back to work within 1-3 weeks, depending on the extent of their surgery. Dr. Patel will decide when you can resume normal activities. Patients may drive and return to work once they discontinue narcotic pain medicine.

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See how our patients looked before and after.

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Check out what our patients are saying.

Tummy Tuck Patient

"I've never had a flat stomach, even before I had my two sons via c-sections 20+ years ago. It's not that I never tried. Believe me, I tried! I would build muscle, but you wouldn't see it under the "tummy tire" or "muffin top" that was always there. Last summer, a good friend and I were talking (for the umpteenth time) about how awesome it would be to have a tummy tuck done. She had gone to a consult with another doctor a few months prior about having the procedure done. So I decided it was time that I either did something about it or stop talking about it forever! I found Dr Patel's name through my dermatologists office and made a consultation appointment right then. I knew from the moment Dr Patel walked in that he was the one who could help me. He had such a friendly, yet professional way about him that put me at ease right away. When my husband got home that night I told him all about Dr Patel and how much I really liked him. My husband asked, "When's the surgery?" Preop, surgery and recovery went smoothly. I was well informed ahead of the surgery so I was relaxed and completely at ease when I arrived at the surgery center. During the first few weeks of my recovery, Dr Patel was only a text or phone call away when I had questions. I am now a little over 4 months out from surgery and I couldn't be happier with the results! I can actually tuck my shirt into my pants with a confidence I've never before felt. I've even gone down 3 pant sizes. Shopping for clothes has been fun! I am so very glad I finally made the decision to have the surgery. And I'm especially glad Dr Patel was the one to do it. Thank you."

Mommy Makeover Patient

"Choosing Dr. Tarak Patel for my "mommy makeover" was one of the best decisions I've ever made. The entire experience, from the first appointment to the follow-up care, was seamless and supportive. Dr. Patel and his team ensured that every aspect of the process, including scheduling, the surgery itself, and the recovery, was handled with the highest level of professionalism and empathy. Dr. Patel's bedside manner sets him apart; he's genuinely caring and attentive, making sure I felt comfortable and informed at every stage. The results of my breast augmentation and abdominoplasty are truly beautiful—beyond what I had imagined. The skill and precision Dr. Patel exhibited in crafting these results speak volumes about his expertise. The aftercare was exceptional, with Dr. Patel and his team readily available to answer any questions and ensure my recovery was smooth. I am deeply thankful to Dr. Patel for not just the physical transformation, but also for the confidence boost that has come with it. If you are contemplating a transformation, I cannot recommend Dr. Patel enough. His professionalism, coupled with his compassionate demeanor, makes him a standout. Thank you, Dr. Patel, for everything!"

Brachioplasty & Mastopexy Patient

"Dr Patel was a breath of fresh air. The care he provided and knowledge was immeasurable. I have never had a Dr come in after the appt time (3min) and apologize for the wait. I had stitches bust over the weekend after surgery and he met me on Sunday to fix the stitches. I had Brachioplasty and Mastopexy - this was no small surgery. The continued care that I received and the results are amazing. To be confident and comfortable in a tank top for the first time in my life is priceless. I have Dr Patel to thank for this, it was not an easy decision, but one made easy with him in my corner. I will be forever grateful!"

Tummy Tuck & Breast Augmentation Patient

"Dr. Patel is not just an incredibly talented plastic surgeon, but he is also very relational and makes his patients feel like part of his family. I highly recommend him!"

Breast augmentation & Abdominoplasty Patient

"In my job, I work with surgeons on a regular basis and I have never met one who is as talented, kind and caring as Dr. Patel. He genuinely cares about each and every one of his patients. He goes the extra mile to make sure you understand your surgical options and explains the whole process from before surgery all the way to recovery and he does it in easy to understand language, not doctor speak. I have had 2 procedures done with Dr. Patel including a tummy tuck and breast augmentation and both experiences were fantastic. I never felt like I was alone in the process from making the decision to have surgery through recovery and even after that. I can call the office or Dr. Patel directly if I have any questions whatsoever and he always responds. I would highly recommend him and I have to many friends and family."

Cosmetic Eye Surgery Patient

"My entire experience from the moment I visited Dr. Patel’s office, I was warmly greeted by his staff and from my post op care to follow up I truly felt like his number one patient. Dr. Patel seriously listened to me and understood what I wanted.

My eyes had been bothering me for years and I wanted a clean refreshed look. He completely delivered on what he promised. He has given me a new lease on life and I’m sincerely grateful. I whole hardily thank him and his staff their outstanding surgery procedure and the new me. I smile daily when I look in the mirror! I consistently recommend Dr. Patel to family and friends without hesitation."

Abdominoplasty with Liposuction Patient

"I am extremely grateful for your kindness in providing me with a tummy tuck. You have made my unimaginable dream for the past 35 years come true and with incredible results at that. You’ve given me a fabulous look, freedom from having to cover up my ugly tummy, and the list goes on. My husband is definitely marveled at the results. Thank you for all the laughter during every appointment that I had with you. It was absolutely a blessing to have you as my surgeon."

Face Lift Patient

"I am very thankful for the huge improvement!! Thank you so much for your professionalism; it is so evident that you really care about your patients and go out of your way to make sure all my questions are answered, and just making sure your patients receive great service from you! That is not a common thing anymore; so thank you very much!!!!"

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Taking the first step many times is the hardest part of the process. If you are ready for change and want to learn more about our procedures, come see Dr. Patel for a free personalized, no-pressure consultation.

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