Tummy Tuck FAQ

What is a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a procedure which removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. The abdominal muscles are also tightened during this procedure.

Who is a good candidate for a tummy tuck?

The best candidates for a tummy tuck are people who have lost weight or have extra skin hanging from pregnancy. Dr. Sood can determine if you are an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck.

Where is the scar from a tummy tuck?

The scar is placed low in the bikini line and extends from hip bone to hip bone.

What are the possible risks of a tummy tuck?

Potential risks include bleeding, infection, seroma, pain, scarring, numbness, asymmetry, and umbilical malposition or loss. Dr. Sood will discuss these risks further at your consultation.

Can I get the same result with having liposuction instead?

It depends on the condition of your abdomen. Dr. Sood will evaluate you to determine which procedure is best for you. Typically if you have loose skin in the abdomen or weak abdominal muscles (from pregnancy, weight gain/loss, etc.) you will need a tummy tuck.

What is the typical recovery time for a tummy tuck?

Usually an overnight stay in the hospital is recommended. You will be sent home on pain medicine and antibiotics. You may have surgical drains. You will need to be off work for a couple of weeks dependent on the type of work you perform. You should not do any strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks following this procedure.

When do I return for a follow up visit?

You will need to be seen the next day as well as a week after surgery. From there Dr. Sood will determine when you need to follow up.

How long before I can return to work?

Most patients are able to return to normal desk-type work within 1-2 weeks. Some patients who have more strenuous work requirements may want to take off longer.

How long before I can return to normal activity?

Most activities of daily living can be resumed within a couple of days. It is important to get up and move around within a day of surgery to help decrease the chance of developing a blood clot. Strenuous activities should be avoided for about 4-6 weeks or until Dr. Sood has given you clearance.

Dr. Sood's primary goal is to provide excellent clinical results along with a high level of patient care and service. Patient satisfaction is our highest concern. We are dedicated to providing every patient with a pleasant experience, beginning with the first visit and continuing on through surgical procedures and treatments and postoperative care. We encourage patients to evaluate the benefits as well as the risks of each procedure within the confines of realistic expectations.