Questions About Abdominoplasty

We believe informed patients are empowered patients. Here’s everything you need to know before you decide on your abdominoplasty.

What is an Abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty is another name for a tummy tuck. It is a body contouring procedure designed to get rid of excess skin and some fat. It may help you get a tighter and slimmer belly.

How Does an Abdominoplasty Improve My Figure?

Most patients choose to have an abdominoplasty when they have weak or loose abdominal muscles, excess fat, or a protruding abdomen. The procedure removes excess skin and fat and tightens the abdominal muscles. The result is a smoother, tighter belly.

Can’t I Just Use Liposuction to Remove My Belly Fat?

For some patients, liposuction is an ideal procedure to achieve a more flattened abdomen. If your protruding belly is mostly fat, and your skin is elastic enough to ensure it will contract after the fat removal, then your provider might recommend liposuction. However, many people have excess skin and some degree of looseness in the abdominal muscles that prevent liposuction from providing ideal results. During your abdominoplasty consultation, your provider will perform an exam to determine which procedure is right for you.

Can an Abdominoplasty Remove Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks are in the skin, and because some skin is removed during an abdominoplasty, some stretch marks below the belly button may be removed. Others may be repositioned lower on the abdomen, while still others may be unaffected.

How Long Does It Take to Recover From an Abdominoplasty?

Most people take two weeks off work to recover from abdominoplasty, at which point they are ready to return to most normal non-strenuous activities. Although it’s important to move around as soon as you can, avoiding strenuous activities–such as running, lifting weights, yoga, pilates, swimming to name a few–are limited for 12 weeks after your procedure to allow for full healing. At each of your follow-up appointments, your provider will inform you of what activities are appropriate for your pace of healing.

Does An Abdominoplasty Increase Risks in Future Pregnancies?

No. Some people think that because abdominoplasty tightens the abdominal muscles it might interfere with future pregnancies, but abdominoplasties have not been shown to have any negative impacts on pregnancy. If you become pregnant after an abdominoplasty, it might stretch your muscles and skin again, and you may need a second procedure to restore your results.
Questions About Abdominoplasty
Questions About Abdominoplasty

Is an Abdominoplasty Safe?

Yes, but the procedure is not without risk. Abdominoplasty can achieve some of the most dramatic results in plastic surgery, but it’s not without some risks. However, the great majority of abdominoplasty patients experience no complications. We use careful planning and proper technique to significantly minimize any complications. During your consultation, your provider will discuss the risks with you and how we work to reduce them.

Does an Abdominoplasty Leave a Scar?

All surgery leaves scars, and an abdominoplasty is no different. The length of the scar is typically from hip to hip. It is located very low on the abdomen so it will be concealed under most types of underwear and bikini bottoms. The location of your abdominoplasty scar will be decided between you and your physician.
Questions About Abdominoplasty

Why Should I Choose Gayoso Plastic Surgery and Medspa For My Abdominoplasty?

You should always work with a board-certified plastic surgeon for an abdominoplasty. Communication is vital to get the results you desire, so you should also work with a surgeon who makes you feel comfortable and confident.

At Gayoso Plastic Surgery and Medspa, our plastic surgeons are board-certified with many years of experience working in all areas of plastic surgery. We only use the best techniques and practice clear communication to help patients from Tampa, St. Petersburg, and across Florida have a positive plastic surgery experience. Our goal is to perform your abdominoplasty safely and to your satisfaction. To achieve your desired results, contact us today to schedule your consultation.

Where Is Your Practice Located? Do You Serve Out-Of-Town Patients?

We are located in St. Petersburg, Florida, but we regularly see patients from the Tampa area, including Clearwater, Sarasota, and surrounding areas and across the state of Florida. We also have patients from around the country and even around the world. If you are considering coming from out of state for your procedure, we can help you time your procedure so it works with your schedule.