Tummy Tuck

To eliminate excess fat and skin in the abdominal region after dramatic weight loss or pregnancy, tummy tuck surgery may be the ideal solution. At Dermatology + Plastic Surgery, led by double board-certified plastic surgeon Rebecca Novo, MD, and board-certified dermatologist Anita Saluja, MD, a tummy tuck procedure is performed with excellence for residents of Melbourne, Viera, Brevard County, and the surrounding communities of Central Florida.

WHAT IS A TUMMY TUCK?

Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat and skin and, in most cases, restores weakened or separated muscles to create a smoother and firmer abdominal profile. This procedure is ideal for individuals who, despite maintaining normal body weight and proportion, have developed a protruding or sagging abdomen due to factors such as aging, heredity, pregnancy, prior surgery, or significant weight fluctuations. A tummy tuck can help you achieve the flat and well-toned abdomen that exercise and weight control alone may not have provided.

WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR A TUMMY TUCK?

The tummy tuck is ideal for patients with stretched abdominal wall muscles following pregnancy or extreme weight loss (diastasis recti) and for those with fatty deposits and folds of sagging skin in the abdominal area. Ideal candidates are physically healthy, at a stable weight, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations. It is important to follow your surgeon’s pre-surgery instructions, such as suspending certain medications. For individuals with smaller pockets of fat and firmer skin, a less invasive procedure like liposuction or a mini tummy tuck may be recommended.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM A TUMMY TUCK?

During the tummy tuck procedure, you will have 3-4 hours of general anesthesia to ensure maximum comfort and safety. The surgery involves a horizontal incision just above the pubic line, sometimes with a small incision above the navel. The procedure tightens stretched abdominal muscles, and lifts sagging skin. Although the tummy tuck will leave a thin scar that runs from hipbone to hipbone, it will gradually fade over time. The outcome is a slimmer, tighter, and flatter abdomen with a more defined waistline.

TUMMY TUCK RECOVERY

Recovery from a tummy tuck typically requires 10 to 14 slow-moving days before resuming office work and light physical activities, and a full six weeks before all physical restrictions are lifted i.e. cardio and weights. You will wear a compression garment to support healing. Dressings and surgical drains are usually removed within the first week. We recommend gradually resuming regular activities after six to eight weeks to ensure optimal healing of the delicate abdominal tissue.

Tummy Tuck Procedure

Anesthesia

Medications will be administered for your comfort, and the procedure requires 3-4 hours of general anesthesia, provided 1 on 1 care by the anesthesiologist, in an accredited outpatient surgery center.

The Incision

A full tummy tuck requires a horizontally oriented incision just above the pubic hairline, extended hip to hip – ultimately the length of the incision is proportional to the amount of skin that needs to be removed. The length and shape of the incision depend on the amount of excess skin. The surgeon may make a second incision around the navel to remove excess upper abdominal skin.

Closing the Incisions

The incisions will be closed with several layers of absorbable sutures, skin glue and overlying waterproof stickers – to support your recovery being as simple as possible for you.

Results

Expect a flatter, firmer abdominal contour more proportionate to your body type and weight. Initial results may be obscured by swelling, but within 1-2 months, you should feel confident in your new slimmer profile.

Tummy Tuck Risks & Safety

Choosing to undergo a tummy tuck is a highly personal decision. Your surgeon will discuss potential risks, which may include blood clots, infection, and slow wound healing. Understanding these risks is crucial for making an informed decision about your surgery.

Tummy Tuck Recovery & Results

After surgery, dressings and bandages will be applied, and you may need to wear a compression garment. You will receive specific instructions for caring for the surgical site, medications to assist with healing, and when to follow up with your surgeon. Recovery is an essential part of the process, and following your surgeon’s guidance will help you achieve the best possible results.

Cost of a Tummy Tuck

The cost of a tummy tuck may vary on the expected time required for each individual procedure. Costs will include anesthesia and surgical facility fees, lab/blood work or necessary clearance/medical tests, post-surgery garments, prescriptions, and the surgeon’s fee. Since tummy tucks are typically not covered by insurance, costs will be reviewed in detail with your surgeon’s patient care coordinator. Several patient financing options are also available.

Contact Us

If you are tired of sagging skin and stubborn fat in your abdomen, a tummy tuck with Dermatology + Plastic Surgery, led by double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rebecca Novo, could be the best solution for you. Serving residents of Melbourne, Viera, Brevard County, and surrounding areas of Central Florida, our team is here to help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Contact us today to schedule your customized consultation.

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READ MORE REVIEWS

   “Dr. Novo is phenomenal.  Her staff is  super friendly! I am very happy with the surgical procedure I had done, and would definitely recommend her.”

   “Dr Novo is an absolute gem, as well as her whole team! I felt extremely welcomed and comfortable from the moment I walked in for a consultation and the level of care they provided throughout the whole time was excellent! She is so knowledgeable and well spoken, I always felt like she took all of my concerns and interests to heart. Her assistant Aggie is also a complete angel and I really enjoyed working with her. Thank you Dr Novo and the rest of your team for making this such an easy and great experience. Also want to mention I am beyond thrilled with the results!”

   “Dr Novo and staff are so incredibly kind and encouraging. I felt completely confident that I was in great hands to finally have the flat stomach I wanted so much! My results have been unbelievable! Currently, I am only 7 weeks out and I feel great. My scar is already minimal. I am so happy I chose Dr Novo!”

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Fill out the form below or call us at (321) 395-3298 to schedule your custom consultation.

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