Getting a Tummy Tuck at Heartland Plastic & Hand Surgery

If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your abdomen and are considering a tummy tuck, you may be wondering what the process involves and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

At Heartland Plastic & Hand Surgery in Cape Girardeau, MO, we offer tummy tucks (also known as abdominoplasty) to help you achieve the results you desire.

Preparing for Your Tummy Tuck

Before your tummy tuck procedure, you’ll have a consultation with Dr. Humphrey to discuss your goals and medical history. During the consultation, we’ll also determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure and then discuss a treatment plan and whether a full or mini tummy tuck is best for you.

A full tummy tuck involves making an incision across the lower abdomen, from hip to hip, and tightening the muscles and skin across the entire abdominal area. This procedure is ideal for patients who have significant excess skin and fat in the abdominal area.

A mini tummy tuck involves a smaller incision (about half the length of a full tummy tuck incision). It only permits the tightening of the muscles in the lower stomach and the removal of excess skin below the belly button.

During Your Tummy Tuck

On the day of your tummy tuck, you’ll be given anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. Your surgeon will make the incision(s) discussed during your consultation (depending on whether you’re having a full or mini tummy tuck) and carefully tighten the abdominal muscles and remove any excess skin or fat. The surgeon will close the incision with sutures or skin adhesives.

After Your Tummy Tuck

After your tummy tuck, you’ll need to take some time to rest and recover. You’ll be given detailed instructions on how to care for your incision and what to expect during the recovery process. It’s important to follow these as closely as possible for the best results.

After the procedure, you’ll experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort for the first few days. These symptoms can be managed with pain medication and proper rest.

How long your recovery time will depend on a number of factors including your age, overall health, the type of tummy tuck, and how much rest you give yourself after the surgery.

Most people need about a month off work and even more, time if they have a physically-demanding job. You’ll want to take the same amount of time off exercising as well.

It can take about three months before all the swelling and bruising go down.

Schedule A Consultation

If you’re interested in a tummy tuck, schedule a consultation at Heartland Plastic Surgery & Hand Surgery today. During your consultation, we’ll go over your goals, medical history, and any questions you may have about the procedure.

Contact us today at our Cape Girardeau, MO office by calling us at 855-919-2707 or by using our online form. We look forward to helping you achieve the results you desire