Tummy Tuck or Mini Tummy Tuck

Abdominal muscles that have been pulled apart and weakened from pregnancy and weight gain in most cases cannot be restored by eating fewer calories and spending more time working out. Excess skin around the abdomen after significant weight loss, in most cases, is not going to resolve with extra sit-ups. This frustrating permanent bulge can be improved with a tummy tuck or an abdominoplasty. This surgical procedure that removes excess fat and skin, while tightening the abdominal wall can create a firmer, flatter, abdominal profile.

Dr. Ricciardelli has over 25 years of surgical experience and keenly aware of what is important when tightening the muscle and re-draping the abdominal skin. “It’s important that the belly button looks natural after removing potentially large amounts of skin and stretch marks. It takes a little extra time and technical ingenuity to create recreate this look,” says Dr. Ricciardelli. There is no substitution for experience and understanding to ensure that the scars are well hidden beneath a two piece bathing suit and underwear. Dr. Ricciardelli may also further improved your results with targeted liposuction for excellent, long lasting results.

If you’re considering abdominoplasty…

Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a “tummy tuck”, is a major surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. The procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen often created by pregnancy.

If you’re considering abdominoplasty, a consultation with Dr. Ricciardelli will give you a basic understanding of the procedure-when it can help, how it’s performed, and what results you can expect. To get started call 910.794.5355 or schedule your appointment online.

Tummy Tuck Recovery

During your tummy tuck recovery, dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions, and you may be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to minimize swelling and support your abdomen as it heals following surgery. Small, thin tubes may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect. You will be given step by step instructions for a healthy recovery before your surgery.

The best candidates for abdominoplasty

The best candidates for abdominoplasty are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that won’t respond to diet or exercise. The surgery is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved.

Patients who intend to lose a lot of weight should postpone the surgery. Also, women who plan future pregnancies should wait, as vertical muscles in the abdomen that are tightened during surgery can separate again during pregnancy.