Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is an increasingly common procedure that involves the removal of folds of loose skin and stretch marks in the front of the abdomen, offering patients a flatter, firmer and more slender mid-section.
BEFORE & AFTER
TIME FRAME
3 Hours
ANAESTHETIC METHOD
General
STITCH REMOVAL
Not Required
OVERNIGHT STAY
Yes
BACK TO WORK
2 - 3 Weeks
BACK TO FITNESS
3 Months (12 Weeks)
PRICE: CUSTOM APPROACH
Schedule a consultation to get your exact cost for a tummy tuck.
What Is a Tummy Tuck Procedure?
What Is a Tummy Tuck Procedure?A standard tummy tuck consists of surgically tightening the abdominal muscles and removing excess skin tissue that is located above and below your belly button. A tummy tuck with Dr. Bray goes far beyond this basic improvement, however; it is a total abdominal contouring procedure. In Dr. Bray’s practice, a tummy tuck usually includes liposuction of the abdominal area and multi-layered tightening or repair of the abdominal muscles. The overall goal of this process is to achieve a more defined and sculpted waist, reduced “muffin-top” and youthful navel all in harmony with a flatter, tighter abdomen.
Most patients benefit from liposuction of additional areas with fatty deposits (such as the “love handles” or flanks), using the NEW BodyTITE™ Liposuction Skin-Tightening technology. When desired by a patient, Dr. Bray uses the excess fat removed by liposuction and transfers it to areas that may need added volume and shape, such as the buttocks, breasts and face.
Regardless of the amount of excess skin removed, Dr. Bray will apply his minimal scarring techniques and place the incisions as low as possible on the abdomen. When possible, he will strive to accommodate an individual’s preferred bathing suit or undergarment such that the scars are hidden and thereby reduce tell-tale signs of surgery.
Tummy Tuck Techniques
Full Tummy Tuck / Full Abdominoplasty Surgery
A full tummy tuck procedure tightens the abdominal muscles and removes the excess fat and stretched/sagging skin from the upper abdomen down to the pubic area. Dr. Bray places the incision, which spans from one hip to the other, as low as possible on the abdomen so that it will be hidden within the bikini line. The skin flap is then lifted so the separated or damaged abdominal muscles can be tightened to support and strengthen the patient’s core, like an inner girdle. The excess fat and skin is then removed and the skin is pulled down. The belly button is created and repositioned. Due to the removal of skin, stretch marks may be removed and/or flattened out.
Dr. Bray often combines liposuction with this surgical procedure to remove excess fatty deposits and for further body contouring. A full tummy tuck offers a flat, firm upper and lower abdomen, a narrower waistline and a slender mid-section. Patients often comment on how much better clothes fit, and they feel more confident with their youthful, fit and toned physique.
Mini Tummy Tuck Toronto / Partial Abdominoplasty Surgery
A mini tummy tuck or partial abdominoplasty is a less-extensive procedure for those with more modest abdominal contour problems. Where necessary tightens the abdominal muscles, a factor which Dr. Bray will evaluate. The mini-tuck primarily removes excess fat and stretched/sagging skin below the belly button. A horizontal incision is made above the pubic area (similar position to a Cesarean section incision). The length of this incision is typically shorter than that required for a full tummy tuck. In most cases, the belly button does not have to be repositioned as with a full tummy tuck.
Dr. Bray usually combines liposuction with this procedure which may include other areas as well for improved body contours. Most patients should be able to wear a bikini or expose a bare midriff without the tell-tale signs of surgery.
Scarless Tummy Tuck
A scarless tummy tuck is a liposuction-only procedure that removes excess fatty deposits in the abdominal area but does not remove excess skin. Dr. Bray uses the new BodyTITE™ Liposuction Skin Tightening system for this procedure, which requires only a miniscule incision to insert the liposuction cannula. The tiny incisions fade with time, eliminating any signs of the procedure. The BodyTITE™ Liposuction technology used for the scarless tummy tuck tightens the skin while removing the fat, offering a smoother, tighter result than with conventional liposuction. Those patients who need tightening of the abdominal muscles, or have stretch marks and significant skin laxity, will be best served with some form of tummy tuck as described above. Dr. Bray will evaluate your personal situation and recommend the solution(s) best suited to accomplish your goals.
Extended Tummy Tuck
An extended tummy tuck is performed when there is a very large amount of excess, loose skin draping around the patient’s lower abdomen, usually after weight loss, pregnancies, or bariatric surgery. For this procedure, the incision is extended around the sides, past the hip bone. The skin flap is then lifted and the abdominal muscle wall is tightened, pulling in the waistline like an internal girdle. The skin is then pulled down and the excess fatty deposits and skin is removed. Stretch marks can be partially flattened and some are removed with this surgery. A new belly button is then created and positioned.
Dr. Bray usually combines BodyTITE™ liposuction to remove stubborn fatty pockets and to do further contouring to other areas.
Preparing for a tummy tuck
Medical conditions, such as heart disease, hypertension, thyroid problems, diabetes or the regular use of certain medications might affect your surgery. If any of this applies to you, you should consult with a physician in our office first.
No smoking of any sort of nicotine, vape or marijuana products for approximately two to four weeks before your procedure. Continuing to do so might adversely affect your surgical outcome. We also advise not consuming alcohol at least a week prior to surgery.
Follow your physician’s instructions concerning diet, hygiene and medications. Before any kind of surgery, your stomach should be empty, which is why you should not eat or drink after midnight the day before the procedure.
Make sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes to allow easier change of clothes before and after surgery. Please arrive without any jewelry, makeup and nail polish on the day of the procedure. If you wear contact lenses, please switch them out for glasses.
Plan enough time for your recovery. Taking a few days off from work will be essential. Patients usually require between 3 and 7 recovery days.
Ask someone to drive you to your appointment and pick you up after surgery. By law, you cannot drive after your surgical operations, and you will need a ride, an uber, or a taxi to get home.
COVID-19 testing
In line with COVID-19 regulations, we have reassessed our cleaning and sterilization protocols. Upon arrival in our office we conduct symptom screenings with a questionnaire and check our patients’ temperature. We also require mask wearing for our staff and patients. COVID-19 testing before surgical procedures is mandatory in order to protect our staff. Please inform yourself regarding testing centers in your area and arrange for testing prior to your surgery.
Blood work
We require a number of lab tests, diagnostic tests and medical evaluations leading up to your surgery. The nature of these tests will vary according to the procedure, your age, health, history, and other key health factors. Make sure to run all the necessary blood work and receive clearance before any surgical procedure. Necessary testing may change based on procedure, age, health, history and other factors.
Two weeks before surgery
It’s of utmost importance to follow all of your surgeon’s instructions regarding diet, supplements and medications. Stop drinking alcohol and smoking of any kind. Avoid exposure to sick people and quit taking blood thinning medications, such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen and a number of supplements. Post-surgery preparations should be made, such as arranging transportation, getting time off from work, stocking up on food and anything else you will need post-surgery and making sure someone will stay with you during the first two days after the procedure.
Day before surgery
Figure out what you are going to wear, follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding pre-surgery fasting and any other preparation measures. Go to bed early and get well rested before your big day. We also recommend getting your house in order and buying ice packs to help with swelling after the surgery.
Tummy Tuck: Before and During Treatment
A tummy tuck is suitable for both men and women who are in generally good health overall and are at a stable weight. If you are an individual who meets this criteria and you have any combination of stretched and/or sagging skin, stretch marks, lax muscles, or stubborn fat deposits in the abdominal area (despite a good diet and exercise regimen), you may be a good candidate to receive a tummy tuck.
The type of tummy tuck that is right for you will be determined during your initial consultation. In the planning process Dr. Bray will consider many factors, including the amount of skin to be excised, the amount of excess fat in the area and the condition of the skin.
If you smoke, you will have already been advised by Dr. Bray during the consultation to cease smoking approximately 6 weeks (this may vary) before and after surgery. Smoking can cause serious post-surgery issues such as wound breakdown and delayed healing.
You will be asked to avoid taking certain herbal supplements such as fish oil and Vitamin E, aspirin-based products and other anti-inflammatory medications starting two weeks prior to surgery. These medications can cause excessive bleeding which can lead to more swelling, bruising and discomfort. More serious issues can occur such as blood clots.
A full tummy tuck is performed under a general anesthetic and takes around three to five hours. A mini tummy tuck is also performed under a general anesthetic and usually takes 2 hours or so, depending on the number of areas being treated with liposuction. All tummy tucks involve an incision across the lower portion of the abdomen.
During the procedure, abdominal muscles and stretched skin are tightened. In those patients where muscle separation is minimal or non-existent they do not require tightening, and Dr. Bray may perform a “skin-only” tummy tuck.
You’ll need to have someone who can drive you home from the surgical facility and help take care of you for at least the first few days after your surgery.
Tummy Tuck Post Op Information
The most effective way to lower your risk of postoperative complications is to follow all your recovery instructions exactly as they have been given to you. The timeline for recovery will vary based on the procedure undertaken.
After a mini tummy tuck procedure, you will be required to wear a compression garment (similar to a girdle) for several weeks; this will help reduce swelling and provide support to the abdomen while the muscles are recovering. You should be up and walking around right after surgery, but may find it difficult to stand up straight for a few days. Swelling and bruising is normal and will steadily disappear. You should be able to return to work within a week or two depending on the demands of your workplace. Full recovery takes about a month, during which time you must refrain from any strenuous lifting or physical activities.
After a full or extended tummy tuck procedure, you will be required to wear a compression garment for about six weeks. You should be up and walking around directly after surgery, but may find it difficult to stand up straight for a few days. Swelling and bruising is normal and will steadily disappear. Full recovery takes at least four to six weeks, during which time you must refrain from any strenuous lifting or physical activities. You should be able to return to work within two to three weeks after surgery depending on the demands of your workplace.
As with any type of plastic surgery procedure, there are risks and side effects that patients should carefully consider and discuss with their surgeon before undergoing a tummy tuck or other procedure. Common side effects to consider include redness, swelling, pain, and scarring. Patients may experience these side effects differently, and there are ways to manage them successfully during the healing process.
While a tummy tuck surgery is an extensive procedure requiring some downtime, the vast majority of patients are pleased with the results – tummy tuck procedures have a 96% satisfaction rate (based on 5640 patient reviews). The results will vary for everyone, depending on their body’s unique healing methods, lifestyle choices, and other factors. In general, the results of a tummy tuck are immediate, however, patients will have to wait until the area is fully healed before they can really see the final product.
Complications From Tummy Tuck
Dr. Bray’s main goal is to help you understand the potential risks and complications after surgery. These include can include:
- Scars
- Discomfort for several days
- Temporary bruising around the surgical sites
- Sometimes over the genital and pubic regions
- Swelling
- Temporary loss of feeling
- Asymmetry
- Seroma
- Hematoma
- Infection
- Nerve and vessel injury
- Risks related to liposuction
- General anesthesia-related complications
RECOMMENDED SURGERIES WITH TUMMY TUCK
FAQ
Are all tummy tuck procedures the same?
No. There are several tummy tuck procedures that can be tailored to a patient’s preferences and requirements. In the planning process Dr. Bray will consider many factors, including the amount of skin to be excised, degree of muscle stretch or separation (diastasis), presence of a hernia, the amount of excess fat in the area and the condition of the skin.
How long is the full tummy tuck procedure and the recovery period?
A full tummy tuck is performed under a general anesthetic and takes around three hours, depending on complexity of the surgery and the number of areas treated with liposuction. After the procedure, patients are required to wear a compression garment (similar to a girdle) for about six weeks, which will help reduce swelling and provide support to the abdomen while the muscles are recovering. Patients should be up and walking around directly after surgery, but may find it difficult to stand up straight for a few days. Swelling and bruising is normal and will steadily disappear. You should be able to return to work within two to three weeks depending on the demands of your workplace. Full recovery takes at least four to six weeks, during which time you must refrain from any strenuous lifting or physical activities.
How long is the mini tummy tuck procedure and the recovery period?
A mini tummy tuck is performed under a general anesthetic and usually takes 2 hours or so, depending on the number of areas being treated with liposuction. After the procedure, patients are required to wear a compression garment (similar to a girdle) for several weeks, which will help reduce swelling and provide support to the abdomen while the muscles are recovering. Patients should be up and walking around right after surgery, but may find it difficult to stand up straight for a few days. Swelling and bruising is normal and will steadily disappear. You should be able to return to work within a week or two depending on the demands of your workplace. Full recovery takes about a month, during which time you must refrain from any strenuous lifting or physical activities.
How long is the Scarless Tummy Tuck procedure and the recovery period?
A scarless tummy tuck is performed under a local or general anesthetic and usually takes about one to two hours, depending on the amount of fat to be removed. After the procedure patients should be up and walking around immediately. Recovery only takes a few days to a week, with patients being able to return to work within a few days. During recovery, a patient will experience some swelling and bruising. This is normal and will subside within a few weeks.
How long is the extended tummy tuck procedure and the recovery period?
An extended tummy tuck procedure is performed under a general anesthetic and can take three or more hours, depending on the number of areas treated with liposuction. After the procedure, patients are required to wear a compression garment (similar to a girdle) for about six weeks, which will help reduce swelling and provide support to the abdomen while the muscles are recovering. Patients should be up and walking around soon after surgery, but may find it difficult to stand up straight for a few days. Swelling and bruising is normal and will steadily disappear. You should be able to return to work within two to three weeks depending on the demands of your workplace. Full recovery takes at least four to six weeks, during which time you must refrain from any strenuous lifting or physical activities.
Are there additional procedures that can be done with a tummy tuck?
Yes, there are a number of procedures that tummy tuck patients can have during the same surgery. The most common combinations are included in what is called the “Mommy Makeover”, a set of procedures geared to help moms regain their pre-baby bodies. Many patients also benefit from liposuction contouring to other areas of stubborn fat, such as the inner and outer thighs, waist, flanks, and love handles.
*INDIVIDUAL RESULTS MAY VARY
Contact Dr.Bray
Schedule a private consultation with Dr. Bray by submitting the form below or calling his offices directly at 416-323-1330.
