Tummy Tuck
Abdominoplasty
Residents of Charleston, SC seeking a flatter stomach and a tighter abdomen come to Dr. O’Neill and Dr. Swartz of O’Neill Plastic Surgery. Abdominoplasty, or more commonly referred to as tummy tuck surgery, is the procedure used to remove excess fat and skin around the belly and sides. Abdominoplasty also restores weakened or separated muscles, which can commonly occur after pregnancy. This procedure creates a smoother and firmer abdominal profile, which enhances your body image and confidence.
*As with any procedure and/or treatment, the results may vary.
How It Works
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) involves the surgical removal of excess abdominal fat and skin and includes tightening of the abdominal wall where muscles have weakened. A full abdominoplasty procedure requires a horizontal incision in the area between the pubic hairline and navel.
The size of the incision largely depends on the amount of excess skin that needs to be removed. Where correction is isolated to the area below the navel, a limited or mini abdominoplasty with a shorter incision at the pubic bone may be recommended. Liposuction may be performed with a mini tummy tuck where excess fat is the only factor.
For women who would prefer to have a tummy tuck in combination with liposuction and breast augmentation, they can get the Mommy Makeover package in our office too!
Benefits
A tummy tuck does more than smooth the profile. It strengthens abdominal walls weakened by childbirth, trauma, or aging. It will also provide motivation for maintaining a stable weight, as this is necessary to maintain the benefits of the surgery long-term.
Treatment Areas
The abdomen between the navel and the pubic area is targeted in a tummy tuck. Women may also opt for breast enlargement and/or liposuction at the same time as their tummy tuck, a group of procedures known as a Mommy Makeover.
Complications
As with any surgery, there is the potential for complications. The surgery takes about three hours and will require aftercare. Some patients report mood swings following the surgery. Keep in mind that the final results will take time to appear fully. Dr. O’Neill will discuss your medical history and expectations with you.
Downtime
The recovery time depends upon the type and extent of surgery you undergo. Plan to take at least 2 weeks off from work. If you have young children, arrange for someone else to tend to their needs during this period as well. It’s best to have a strong support system in place before your surgery, and you should plan to have someone to assist you for at least a few days following your surgery. Full recovery can take several months, and the scar will continue to fade for up to a year.
Cost
A tummy tuck procedure will be different for everyone. Please call the office to schedule a consult. As with any procedure and/or treatment, the results may vary.
Schedule a Tummy Tuck Consultation in Charleston, SC
O’Neill Plastic Surgery is experienced and qualified to provide you with a specialized tummy tuck. Patients deserve positive and natural-looking results, and our diligent attention to detail and gentle care make that a reality for them.
We perform abdominoplasty surgery in Dr. O’Neill’s clinic which is conveniently located in Charleston, South Carolina on Daniel Island. Learn more about your options and discuss any questions you may have with a consultation. Call today at 843-881-2130 or contact us online.
