Is a Tummy Tuck Painful?

A tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure, so some discomfort is expected during the recovery period. However, pain is well-managed with medication prescribed by your surgeon. Patients typically experience the most soreness in the first week after surgery, especially in the abdominal muscles, due to tightening. Many describe the sensation as intense soreness, similar to an extreme workout or muscle strain.

Is a Tummy Tuck Done in One Session?

Yes, a tummy tuck is typically performed in a single surgical session. The procedure usually takes between 2 and 5 hours, depending on the extent of the correction. However, some patients may require a staged approach if combining a tummy tuck with additional procedures such as liposuction or a body lift.

How Long Does a Tummy Tuck Take to Heal?

Here’s a general healing timeline: First week: Swelling, tightness, and discomfort are most pronounced. Patients wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and support healing. 2 to 4 weeks: Most swelling subsides, and patients can resume light activities. 6 to 8 weeks: Patients can return to low-impact exercise and gradually resume normal routines. 3 to 6 months : Swelling continues to subside, and the final shape begins to take form. One year: Full healing is complete, and final results are apparent.

What Procedures are Best Combined with a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck is often combined with complementary procedures to enhance overall body contouring and maximize results. The most common combinations include: Liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits in areas such as the flanks, back, or thighs to create a more sculpted silhouette. Breast Enhancement : Helps restore or refine the shape of the breasts, often included in a Mommy Makeover. Body Lift Procedures: Patients with significant weight loss may benefit from additional contouring of the lower body, thighs, or arms.

What Are the Risks Associated With a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck carries some risks, but choosing a highly skilled surgical team, such as ECAPS, minimizes the likelihood of complications. Potential risks include swelling, bruising, and temporary numbness around the incision site, all of which typically resolve with proper post-operative care. Scarring is inevitable, but it can be carefully placed low on the abdomen to be easily concealed beneath clothing, and treatments like silicone strips or laser therapy can improve its appearance. Infection and poor wound healing are rare but more common in smokers or individuals with underlying health conditions, which is why strict adherence to post-op guidelines is essential.

New Jersey & New York

Tummy Tuck

Name: East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery
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Tummy Tucks (AKA Abdominoplasties): Doing What Exercise and Diet Can’t

If there’s one area of the body most of us can agree is a trouble spot, it’s our midsection. Some aesthetic tummy issues can be addressed with a balanced diet and regular exercise, but not all. Problems with excess skin and stubborn fat deposits resulting from weight loss, pregnancy, and the inevitable effects of gravity generally require a surgical solution. Plastic surgeons at the East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery Center offer New Jersey patients a range of body contouring options, including tummy tuck surgery, also known as an abdominoplasty. If you’re interested in learning about how a tummy tuck procedure can bring you closer to your ideal image, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with an advanced cosmetic surgeon at one of our ECAPS Centers of New Jersey locations in Hoboken, Livingston, Ridgewood, or Livingston.

Tummy Tuck Results

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A young woman lies on a gray bed, wearing a white tank top and underwear. Her arms are outstretched, head tilted slightly upward, and she appears relaxed. A quilted gray blanket is draped over her, with a gray pillow nearby. Soft natural light fills the scene. - Tummy Tuck in New York and New Jersey

What is a Tummy Tuck?

Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, removes excess and/or sagging fat and skin to enhance the overall shape and tone of your abdomen or midsection. Certain cases may also require the tightening of abdominal muscles. Anyone who wishes to achieve a flat, smooth stomach with improved contour and shape may be a good candidate for an abdominoplasty procedure. A tummy tuck is a popular procedure for women who have recently given birth or lost a substantial amount of weight. Surgery becomes the best option when the reshaping of problem areas cannot be corrected with a simple diet and exercise.

Tummy tucks come in various forms, tailored to a patient’s specific needs. The most common types include the mini tummy tuck, which targets minor skin laxity below the belly button; the full tummy tuck, which tightens both the upper and lower abdomen with muscle repair; and the extended tummy tuck, which addresses excess skin that extends to the sides. Your surgeon will recommend the technique best suited to your anatomy and concerns, and then develop a surgical plan tailored to that method.

How Could I Benefit From a Tummy Tuck?

Tummy tucks are beneficial because they essentially sculpt the body after major weight loss, pregnancy, or aging. Since the skin cannot naturally retract into its original form, tummy tucks serve as a helpful aid by removing excess skin, allowing patients to achieve a smaller, smoother figure. For many, having sagging skin can be both an uncomfortable experience and a form of self-consciousness. This offers a solution that helps patients regain confidence and a better quality of life.

Am I a Good Candidate For a Tummy Tuck?

At the ECAPS Center, we strive to deliver the highest quality care to each and every one of our patients. One or more of the following may indicate you are a good candidate for an abdominoplasty procedure:

You are in good physical condition and weigh near average. Your ability to withstand surgery is a major factor in determining your candidacy for a tummy tuck.
You wish to gain a more even, toned body after weight loss, pregnancy, natural aging, or inherited factors
You are currently struggling with pockets of fat that are disproportionate to the rest of your body. This fat oftentimes cannot be eliminated with diet and exercise
If you do not have an associated amount of abundant excess skin, and the elasticity of the skin is still good, your surgery should be a success

During your one-on-one consultation with a surgeon at one of our ECAPS Centers of New Jersey, you will go over these considerations to ensure your surgery is a success. You should be prepared to discuss your full medical history during your consultation, including any medical conditions, previous surgeries or treatments, drug allergies, current medications, and use of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal substances.

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Special Considerations For Tummy Tucks

Age, weight, and pregnancy can negatively impact the results of your tummy tuck. If you are considering an abdominoplasty procedure, please also review the following points: A tummy tuck can be performed at any age, provided you are a suitable candidate for major surgery. You must complete your weight loss before surgery; otherwise, the problems may reappear. Gaining weight after your surgery may worsen scars or bring back the issues you were dealing with prior to the surgery. It is in your best interest to inform the ECAPS staff if you are considering having children in the future. Pregnancy can cause unpredictable body changes and can affect the long-term results of your abdominoplasty procedure.

How Do I Get a Tummy Tuck?

To get a tummy tuck, you’ll first need to speak with a professional and experienced plastic surgeon. At ECAPS, our team comprises board-certified plastic surgeons serving the greater New Jersey and New York City regions. They take consultations with patients like you to evaluate your skin’s elasticity, areas of concern, and medical history in comparison with your ideal outcome. During this appointment, they’ll create a surgical plan and review it with you in detail, allowing you to ask any questions and have full transparency regarding the procedure. If you feel ready, the procedure and pre-operative appointments can be scheduled, and you’ll be given instructions on how to prepare.

During your pre-operative appointment, you’ll review your medical history again and discuss the medications you are currently taking, including herbal supplements.. Additional pre-surgical guidelines will be provided. Before-and-after photos may be taken, and any last questions can be addressed during this time.

Abdominoplasty Surgery And Recovery Time

A tummy tuck is typically an outpatient surgery, performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. After a few hours of recovery, you will be able to return home. Any incisions you receive during your tummy tuck will be wrapped in gauze dressings and may include drain tubes to prevent fluid accumulation. You should be able to walk immediately after surgery, and you will be up and about within one to two days after surgery. Dressings will be removed within several days; however, you may be required to wear a supportive garment to help reduce swelling. The professionals at the New Jersey East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery Center will recommend follow-up visits to assess your healing process. It is important to follow your doctor’s orders during this time to ensure that your final results reach their full potential.

How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost in New Jersey?

The cost of a Tummy Tuck in New Jersey and New York City depends on the surgical method used, the amount of skin and fat removed, and whether abdominal muscles need to be tightened. Pricing typically starts at around $5,000 and increases from there. Other factors to consider include the surgeon’s expertise and experience, hospital fees, and the costs of anesthesia and other medications. As part of your consultation, a price breakdown for your surgical plan will be provided, along with a review of financing options if needed.

Why Choose East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery (ECAPS)?

At East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery (ECAPS), we are committed to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care to individuals seeking transformative body contouring, including tummy tucks. With locations in New Jersey and New York City, our team of board-certified plastic surgeons specializes in various abdominoplasty techniques to create a firmer, more sculpted midsection. By combining innovation, safety, and a deep respect for each patient’s unique aesthetic goals, ECAPS ensures you receive expert care tailored to your vision and long-term confidence.

Tummy Tuck FAQ’S

A tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure, so some discomfort is expected during the recovery period. However, pain is well-managed with medication prescribed by your surgeon. Patients typically experience the most soreness in the first week after surgery, especially in the abdominal muscles, due to tightening. Many describe the sensation as intense soreness, similar to an extreme workout or muscle strain.
Here’s a general healing timeline:
- First week: Swelling, tightness, and discomfort are most pronounced. Patients wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and support healing.
- 2 to 4 weeks: Most swelling subsides, and patients can resume light activities.
- 6 to 8 weeks: Patients can return to low-impact exercise and gradually resume normal routines.
- 3 to 6 months: Swelling continues to subside, and the final shape begins to take form.
One year: Full healing is complete, and final results are apparent.
A tummy tuck is often combined with complementary procedures to enhance overall body contouring and maximize results. The most common combinations include:
- Liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits in areas such as the flanks, back, or thighs to create a more sculpted silhouette.
- Breast Enhancement: Helps restore or refine the shape of the breasts, often included in a Mommy Makeover.
- Body Lift Procedures: Patients with significant weight loss may benefit from additional contouring of the lower body, thighs, or arms.
A tummy tuck carries some risks, but choosing a highly skilled surgical team, such as ECAPS, minimizes the likelihood of complications. Potential risks include swelling, bruising, and temporary numbness around the incision site, all of which typically resolve with proper post-operative care. Scarring is inevitable, but it can be carefully placed low on the abdomen to be easily concealed beneath clothing, and treatments like silicone strips or laser therapy can improve its appearance. Infection and poor wound healing are rare but more common in smokers or individuals with underlying health conditions, which is why strict adherence to post-op guidelines is essential.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re ready to take the next step or simply curious to learn more about tummy tucks or other body contouring procedures, the best thing you can do is schedule a consultation at ECAPS. We have surgeons available in both the greater New Jersey and New York City areas to answer any questions you may have and get you on the right path toward your dream body. Please contact us by phone or complete our online form.

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