Dr. Rothaus offers tummy tuck procedures to flatten and tone the abdomen. This is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures conducted at our Westchester plastic & cosmetic surgery office. Learn more about how our cosmetic office conducts abdominoplasty procedures for body tightening.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at improving the appearance of the abdominal area by removing excess skin and fat and tightening the underlying muscles.
During a tummy tuck, an incision is made along the lower abdomen. The length of the incision ranges from just above the pubis region to from side to side. Prior to the incision the abdomen and surrounding area can, if necessary, be treated with liposuction to remove areas of excess fat. A flap of skin and fat over the abdominal muscles is then carefully lifted. The underlying abdominal muscles are then tightened, as required, to create a firmer, more defined waistline. Any excess skin and fat are trimmed away, and the remaining skin is re-draped and sutured back into place.
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the surgery. Smaller abdominoplasties and mini-abdominoplasties can be performed under a local anesthesia or under local anesthesia with sedation.
The Different Types of Abdominoplasty Procedures.
There are different types of abdominoplasties available, each tailored to address specific concerns and achieve desired outcomes. Here are the common types:
Traditional Abdominoplasty
This is the standard tummy tuck procedure that involves a full length lower abdominal incision and addresses both the upper and lower abdomen. It is suitable for individuals with significant excess skin and fat in the abdominal area, as well as weakened abdominal muscles.
Mini Abdominoplasty
A mini tummy tuck is a less extensive version of the traditional abdominoplasty, primarily targeting the lower abdomen. It involves a smaller incision and is suitable for individuals with mild to moderate skin and muscle laxity limited to the lower abdominal region. This procedure often yields a shorter recovery time.
Extended Abdominoplasty
In an extended tummy tuck, the incision extends to both sides, allowing for a greater degree of tissue removal. This procedure is recommended for individuals who have excess skin and fat not only in the abdomen but also extending to the sides and lower back (flanks).
Circumferential Abdominoplasty (Body Lift):
This procedure is more comprehensive and involves a circumferential incision around the waistline, allowing for the removal of excess skin and fat from the entire abdominal area, as well as the back and hips. It is sometimes combined with a buttock lift. It is often recommended for individuals who have experienced significant weight and bariatric surgery and weight loss medication patients.
Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty
This technique is suitable for individuals who have a significant amount of excess skin and fat in both the horizontal and vertical directions. It involves an additional vertical incision in the midline, resulting in a shape resembling the Fleur-de-Lis symbol.
Tummy Tuck Consultation
During your consultation, we will evaluate your abdominal area, discuss your concerns and goals, and recommend the most appropriate type of abdominoplasty procedure for you. It’s important to note that while a tummy tuck can provide a flatter, more toned abdomen, it is not a substitute for weight loss or a healthy lifestyle. Maintaining a stable weight and following a balanced diet and regular exercise routine are essential for long-term results.
Recovery Time
As with any surgical procedure, a tummy tuck carries potential risks and considerations, which we will thoroughly discuss with you. Recovery time can vary depending on which abdominoplasty procedure you schedule, but most patients typically return home the day of the procedure. Our observation is that most patients return to light activities within two weeks, but can expect a full recovery in less than two months.
Our goal during your consultation is to ensure you have a clear understanding of the procedure, its expected outcomes, and the recovery process so that you can make an informed decision.
Contact our Westchester Cosmetic Office
Dr. Rothaus is on staff at The New York Presbyterian Hospital-Weill Cornell and at The Hospital for Special Surgery. His Manhattan office and office-based surgery center are located on the Upper East side of Manhattan. Dr. Rothaus has, however, maintained for his Westchester and Connecticut patients a conveniently located Westchester office for almost two decades. He and his staff are available in their White Plains office to provide consultations and take care of all your pre-operative and post-operative care. If you have any questions or concerns about the abdominoplasty procedure, we are here to address them and guide you through the process.
Please feel free to contact our team to ask any further questions you may have. We are here to address your concerns and guide you through the process.
About Dr. Rothaus
Kenneth O. Rothaus, MD is a board-certified Manhattan and Westchester plastic surgeon offering cosmetic and reconstructive surgery for the face, breast, body, and skin. Educated at Yale College and Harvard Medical School, Dr. Rothaus’ general and plastic surgery training was at the Columbia and Cornell campuses of the New York Presbyterian Hospital. Dr. Rothaus values the wants and needs of his patients and strives to give them the best experience possible.
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