There are times when exercise and weight loss programs only get us so far, and – try as you might – sometimes you hit a plateau, and nothing seems to firm up those problem areas. Feeling self-conscious about those areas of extra skin and fat on your face, neck, arms, abdomen or legs isn’t surprising, but there is a solution. You can attain your desired appearance as a result of cosmetic surgery techniques such as abdominoplasty (also known as a tummy tuck). Dr. Richard J. Martin of Connecticut Surgical Arts performs tummy tucks for men and women who are residents of Norwich, Colchester, Mystic, Waterford, Glastonbury and the surrounding Connecticut communities.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is a cosmetic procedure that thins and firms the abdomen. Excess skin and fat are removed from the abdomen and flanks, and the underlying muscles are tightened. Patients who typically seek this surgery are struggling with sagging skin as a result of pregnancy or a significant weight loss.
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck in Norwich Cost?
The cost of the procedure depends on variables unique to each patient’s treatment. Cost will be discussed during your consultation. We accept cash, check and credit card payments. We offer numerous financing options.
Benefits of Abdominoplasty
While many patients are interested in the cosmetic effects of a tummy tuck, there are also some medical benefits to be had for those struggling with certain injuries or disorders.
Other issues that abdominoplasty may address are:
- Reduction of stress urinary incontinence after a vaginal birth
- Stress urinary incontinence often occurs as uncontrollable leakage because of sneezing, coughing, exercising or perhaps even laughing.
- Improved posture
- Stomach muscles may become distended after significant weight loss or numerous pregnancies. As a tummy tuck tightens weak muscles, it also strengthens the core, giving the spine a better foundation.
- Ventral Hernia Correction
- A ventral hernia occurs when the intestine or tissue of the abdomen pushes through the abdominal wall to form a pocket or sack. There are many causes of this kind of weakness, including significant weight loss, C-sections or appendectomies. It is not uncommon for a surgeon to pair a tummy tuck with a hernia surgery in order to strengthen the abdominal wall to prevent a recurrence of the injury.
Who Is the Ideal Candidate for Abdominoplasty?
Anyone with loose abdominal skin from pregnancy or major weight loss may be a candidate for an abdominoplasty, or a “tummy tuck.” If you are bothered by the appearance of your abdomen, you have realistic expectations, are reasonably healthy and a non-smoker, a tummy tuck may be for you.
What Do I Need To Do Before a Tummy Tuck?
Before your tummy tuck procedure, you will likely be given detailed pre-surgery and post-surgery instructions by Dr. Martin.
How Long Does It Take to Perform a Tummy Tuck?
Abdominoplasty is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, a ‘c-section’ type incision is made below ‘bikini’ line as well as around the belly button for repositioning once the excess skin has been removed. Surgery can take anywhere from one to five hours, depending on your case.
What to Expect After Abdominoplasty
After a tummy tuck, you should rest, but it is important to walk around the house regularly to keep blood flowing, wear your support garment and empty your surgical drains two to three times a day. Drink plenty of water as hydration helps with healing. It may be possible to go back to work after seven to 10 days, a full recovery typically requires two to four weeks.
Will I Have Scars After a Tummy Tuck?
An incision is made just above the pubic area during the procedure, and skin is stretched down across the stomach, the excess discarded. The muscles beneath are tightened with sutures, and the subsequent scar is covered by all but the skimpiest swimwear.
When Will I See The Results?
Though it may take some time to fully recover, you will notice a difference immediately after your tummy tuck. It is possible that a lot of cumbersome tissue may have been removed, and the result will be a much flatter stomach surface. While there will be some swelling right after surgery, that will go down incrementally day-by-day, leaving behind the flat stomach you desire.
How Long Will the Results of Abdominoplasty Last?
The results of your abdominoplasty will be permanent with proper diet and exercise, although a substantial weight loss or weight gain, pregnancy, and even age may affect your results. After a number of years, a second procedure may be performed to reestablish your original results.
Connecticut Surgical Arts is passionately committed to reflecting your inner beauty. Using the latest and most advanced procedures for cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, our team offers full body plastic surgery, emphasizing overall health and wellness to the residents of Norwich, Mystic, Colchester, Waterford, Glastonbury, and the surrounding communities in Connecticut. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.