What is an Abdominoplasty
(Tummy Tuck)?
This procedure flattens the abdomen by removing excess skin and
fat while tightening the abdominal muscles. back
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Am I a candidate for this procedure?
Men and women who are in relatively good shape, but can't lose
a large fat pocket or loose skin around the abdomen through diet
or exercise are the best candidates for a traditional abdominoplasty.
Candidates with a minimum of excess skin and a weak, bulging lower
abdominal wall may benefit from an endoscopic abdominoplasty.
This procedure eliminates the need for a hip-to-hip incision, and
reduces recovery time. However, if you are planning on losing
a substantial amount of weight or having more children, Dr. Bradley
recommends you postpone surgery. For a private consultation,
please call Dr. Bradley at 618-355-0993.
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What are the benefits of this
procedure?
This procedure is particularly beneficial to women who have
undergone numerous pregnancies and have stretched abdominal muscle
and skin.
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How long does the procedure last?
The procedure lasts from 2 to 5 hours depending on the extent
of surgery and individual circumstances. The procedure can
be performed inpatient or outpatient with general anesthesia.
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How do I prepare for surgery?
Dr. Bradley will evaluate your fat deposits, skin elasticity
and abdominal musculature. When discussing your expectations,
be sure to be up-front and honest. It's important to tell
Dr. Bradley if you smoke or are taking any vitamins, herbal supplements,
medications, or drugs. Smoking can inhibit the healing process
a great deal. Dr. Bradley will not perform an abdominoplasty
on anyone who cannot stop smoking for 2 weeks prior to and 4 weeks
following the surgery.
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What does surgery involve?
Dr. Bradley will make an incision from hip-to-hip above the
pubic area. A second incision releases the naval from surrounding
tissue. The skin is separated from the abdominal wall, and
your vertical abdominal muscles are tightened and stitched into
their new position. The flap of skin is then stretched down,
and the excess skin is removed. A new hole for your navel
is cut and stitched together. A tube may be inserted to
drain excess fluid, and incisions are stitched closed.
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Will I spend the night in your
facility or be released after surgery?
Depending on the extent of surgery, you may be released in
a few hours or you may stay in the hospital for a few days.
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When can I return to my normal
lifestyle?
After the surgery, you can return to work in 2 to 4 weeks,
but it will take 4 to 6 weeks before you can engage in more strenuous
activity. The fading and flattening of scars should occur
within 3 months to 2 years.
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Will I need a follow-up visit?
With every procedure, Dr. Bradley strives to provide personal
follow-up visits to monitor your progress and answer any post-operative
questions.
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