After significant weight loss or pregnancy, you may be left with a tummy pooch or excess skin. A tummy tuck is just what the doctor ordered. Dr. Carey Nease and his professional staff at Nease Cosmetic Surgery provide gynecomastia surgery to patients in Chattanooga, Nashville, Scottsboro and surrounding communities.
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What is a Tummy Tuck?
The medical term for a tummy tuck is abdominoplasty. This is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fatty tissue and tightens up the abdominal wall muscles, leaving you with a tighter, flatter abdomen.
It’s worth noting that a tummy tuck is a body sculpting procedure, used for contouring and shaping. It was never designed to be used as a weight loss treatment. Patients considering a tummy tuck should already be at or near their ideal weight.
View more Tummy Tuck Before and After Pictures
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?
At Nease Cosmetic Surgery, a full tummy tuck averages $9,500. The mini tummy tuck averages $7,500. The cost of a tummy tuck may vary, depending on the complexity of the procedure and other variables. Your treatment plan will be thoroughly discussed during your initial consultation and you’ll be given an accurate cost at that time, specific to your unique circumstances.
Insurance companies seldom cover the cost of cosmetic surgeries and procedures. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to find out what they will or will not cover. To keep procedures as affordable for our patients as possible, we offer complimentary consultations and a variety of payment methods, including cash, major credit cards, and financing through CareCredit®.
What Are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck?
There are dramatic benefits to be seen following a tummy tuck. Most patients are incredibly pleased with their results. Some common (and not so common) benefits include:
- Flatter stomach
- Better posture
- Decreased stress urinary incontinence
- Better exercise tolerance
- Hernia relief
- Increased self-confidence, improved self-image
- Tighter, stronger stomach muscles
What is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
When a full tummy tuck is not necessary, and the excess tummy pooch is on the small side and mostly located below the belly-button, a mini tummy tuck may be a better option.
Mini tummy tucks are designed for the lower abdomen only. The incisions are small, and the recovery time is usually a bit shorter.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
To truly be a good candidate for a tummy tuck, your excess abdominal skin should stretch from above the belly button to the incision just above the pubic hairline. To perform the tummy tuck, the surgeon will need enough skin to be able to close the wound.
A qualified board-certified plastic surgeon is your best resource to determine whether or not your situation meets the requirements for a tummy tuck.
What is Tummy Tuck Recovery Like?
Each body recovers at a different pace, so recovery times may vary between individuals. You’ll need to make sure you allow yourself ample time to recover.
You’ll need to avoid vigorous activity, such as exercise, heavy lifting, or anything else strenuous for a minimum of six weeks.
Generally speaking, most patients will need to wear a supportive binder for six weeks or so. You will most likely have drains that must be left in place for a few days following your tummy tuck surgery. While the drains are in, you’ll likely be prescribed an anticoagulant and an antibiotic.
Your surgeon will give you post-op instructions specific to your surgery. For optimal recovery results, read and follow them as closely as possible.
Schedule Your Tummy Tuck Consultation Today
If you’re considering a tummy tuck, contact us today to set up a consultation. Nease Cosmetic Surgery performs tummy tucks and other body sculpting procedures for residents in Chattanooga, Nashville, Scottsboro and surrounding communities.
