Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

A tummy tuck in Tampa, Florida, FL is a very popular procedure which removes the excess abdominal fat and loose skin. The tummy tuck procedure also tightens the abdominal muscles that frequently become loose after pregnancy or weight gain. Dr. Polecritti also performs the advanced tummy tuck technique, sometimes called a lipoabdominoplasty. This procedure incorporates liposculpture of the flanks and hips, along with a tummy tuck, resulting in a more defined hourglass shape.

Will the tummy tuck remove stretch marks on my belly?

The tummy tuck procedure can remove stretch marks which are located at the level of your belly button or below. If you have stretch marks that extend onto your upper abdomen, they may still be present after the procedure however they will be moved to the lower portion of your belly.

Where are the incisions for a tummy tuck?

Dr. Polecritti places the incision in the lower abdomen which is hidden by even the smallest undergarments or bathing suits. The length of the incision is dependent on the amount of fatty tissue and skin that needs to be removed. It may be necessary to extend the length of the incision from hip to hip in order to achieve the best cosmetic contour. You will also have small incision circling your belly button.

What is a Mini Abdominoplasty?

A mini abdominoplasty is basically the same procedure described above, the difference is that the incision is not as long and the extent of the muscle repair isn’t as extensive. This procedure is excellent for the women who are at their ideal weight or just slightly overweight but have a bit of excess laxity of the skin in the central belly, usually a result of multiple pregnancies.

What is a “Mommy Makeover”?

A “Mommy Makeover” is really a catch phrase or marketing term. The mommy makeover can involve several procedures which are commonly requested from new mothers. Pregnancy frequently results in unwelcome changes to the new mothers body. These include excess, sagging skin around the belly area, sagging of the breasts, loss of fullness in the upper breast, enlargement of the areola and nipple, and new collections of fatty tissue in areas which are resistant to diet and exercise. In most cases, the mommy makeover includes a tummy tuck along with a breast lift with or without breast implants. On occasion, liposuction can also be done at the same time as well. Dr. Polecritti offers all of these procedures separately and in combination based on the requests and needs of the patient.

What is the recovery from an abdominoplasty like?

Dr. Polecritti performs these procedures at a local hospital and the patient has the option to stay overnight if he or she wishes. The procedure is performed under general sedation by a licensed anesthesiologist. Two small drains are placed under the skin during the procedure and will remain for 7-10days. These drains are important to collect fluid and to allow the new contoured skin and tissue heal. The superficial sutures are dissolvable and will not have to removed. You will be asked to wear an compression garment for several weeks which helps the healing process. Activity can be gradually advanced over the first week but you will be sore for the first couple days after the procedure. Dr. Polecritti provides prescribed medication for discomfort and muscle spasm.

Which patients are ideal candidates for a Tummy tuck?

1. A patient with either too much excess fatty tissue, skin laxity or both to be adequately treated with liposuction alone.
2. Patients with realistic expectations about the potential results from the procedure which have been discussed with Dr. Polecritti
3. Patients who are at their comfortable resting weight. Patients should not go on a crash diet in order to reach an unsustainable weight prior to the procedure. Likewise patients who at their max weight should attempt a healthy diet and exercise prior to the procedure in order to achieve a better cosmetic outcome.
4. Patients who are not planning further pregnancies.

Is the procedure safe?

Thousands of tummy tucks are successfully performed each year. When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon trained in body contouring, the results are generally quite positive. However, abdominoplasty is a major surgery, and any such surgery has risks. Most complications are rare and treated with minimal difficulty. These complications include but are not limited too; scarring, fluid collections, poor healing, infections and blood clots. Smokers should completely stop at least 4 weeks before surgery and for at least 4 weeks after surgery. Smoking is detrimental to wound healing and increases the risk of complications. You can reduce your risk of complications by closely following Dr. Polecritti’s instructions before and after surgery especially with regard to when and how you should resume physical activity.