What Can a Tummy Tuck Improve?

Even people in good shape struggle with loose skin and abdominal muscles, especially as a result of pregnancy, weight changes, or aging. Dr. Vitolo specializes in both standard and Scar Less tummy tucks to give each person the flat belly they want. 

*Individual results may vary

How Does A Tummy Tuck Work?

Dr. Vitolo performs several different types of tummy tucks. For people with significant amounts of loose skin as well as lax abdominal muscles, a traditional tummy tuck may work best. However, for people who need tightening of the abdominal muscles but do not have large amounts of loose skin, a Scar Less tummy tuck can reduce scarring and decrease recovery time. 

A traditional tummy tuck includes lifting the skin and removing the excess, reshaping and tightening the abdominal muscles, and removing stretch marks. The procedure may also include liposuction, especially on the “love handles” or flanks. This type of tummy tuck usually leaves a scar across the lower abdomen designed to be hidden by undergarments or a swimsuit as much as possible. 

A Scar Less tummy tuck works best for people without a lot of loose skin. Dr. Vitolo can use a much smaller incision to tighten and reposition the abdominal muscles. Because he will not cut out large amounts of loose skin, the scar can remain smaller. A consultation will help Dr. Vitolo recommend a treatment plan for you. 

A Staged Scar Less  Abdominoplasty

In this alternative procedure, Dr Vitolo performs an extensive External Ultrasound Assisted Liposcution ( EUAL)  (see description in Dr  Vitolol’s website) of the abdomen, flanks, lower back, pubic area and inner thighs.

After the removal of a large amount of fat from those areas, the skin is allowed to shrink, and a post operative healing protocol is prescribed.  This consists of the  use of compression garments, a self roller massage regimen amplified with occasional professional lymphatic massage for several months.  Over three to six months, the abdominal skin  usually tightens  since excess fat  which was underlying the skin has been removed.  Similar to what happens when you lose weight, and your skin tightens.  Dr Vitolo relates  “this procedure is not for everyone, especially women who need muscle. This procedure can offer significant improvement in women who do not wish to have extensive surgery with the resultant extensive scarring and long recovery period.

As Dr Vitolo says “ not every woman can fit into a size 8 shoe, so I try to tailor each procedure to each woman’s needs , goals and budget.”

What Can a Tummy Tuck Address?

A tummy tuck can address problems like loose skin around the abdomen and abdominal muscles that have become lax or out of position. This procedure can remove the excess skin, lift the skin and underlying structures back into place, and tighten muscles that have become loose or separated. 

A tummy tuck can remove excess skin around the abdomen, but many people also choose to have liposuction around the waist and sides to complete their transformation. In addition, some women having a tummy tuck after pregnancy also choose a Scar Less breast augmentation to accompany their tummy tuck as part of a full “mommy makeover.” 

What is Recovery Like From a Tummy Tuck?

With a standard tummy tuck, you will need about seven to ten days to recover before returning to work and regular activities. During this time, Dr. Vitolo recommends that patients get up and move around regularly but not engage in any strenuous activity. These kinds of activities can resume with the doctor’s permission after about three to four weeks. Recovery with a Scar Less tummy tuck can be shortened to just a few days. 

What Results Will I See From a Tummy Tuck?

Results from a tummy tuck are visible as soon as the swelling has reduced after a few days. You will immediately see that your loose abdominal skin is gone and that your belly looks tighter and firmer after the correction of the muscles. 

Take the Next Step

Want to learn more about a tummy tuck?

Schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Vitolo at his plastic surgery practice by filling out the consultation form on this page or by calling 718-619-8869 to get more information or to make an appointment at one of his 3 offices.