During this time frame, most patients rate their pain as a 2 or 3 out of 10. This medicine makes the abdominal area numb for 72 hours.
We administer a long-acting numbing medication during the procedure that greatly improves the recovery process. Pain after surgery is a common concern with tummy tuck, and we have a protocol to manage this discomfort and speed recovery. Tummy Tuck can often be combined with other procedures such as Breast Augmentation/Breast Lift (Mommy Makeover) or liposuction of additional areas. These small tubes are temporary and are removed a week after surgery.
Drains are placed to reduce swelling or fluid collections.
The skin is tightened and re-draped, the belly button is preserved, and it may be re-shaped if necessary. Once the musculature is exposed, corrections of muscular separation or small hernias are repaired when necessary. In women, this scar is the same level as the horizontal c-section scar. The incision used goes from hip to hip, and generally falls under the underwear or panty line. An incision is then performed to remove the excess skin. The flanks (“love handles”) and area midline above the belly button are liposuctioned. You will need assistance for the first couple of days and you will need someone to drive you home.Īt the beginning of the procedure, liposuction is used to thin the underlying fat and trim the waist line. You are then transported to recovery, and then you are able to go home and sleep in your own bed or easy chair. An extended tummy tuck usually takes closer to 3 hours to complete and an extended tummy tuck plus takes around 3.5 hours to complete. A standard tummy tuck usually takes about 2.5 hours to complete. You will be asleep under the care of a board certified anesthesiologist. The tummy tuck procedure is performed at an accredited outpatient surgical center.