Tummy Tuck Overview
Why get a Tummy Tuck?
Like many other women and men, you may be frustrated with the look of your abdomen, despite diet and exercise. Fret no more, tummy tuck surgery is designed to dramatically define and slim your midsection to improve contour and reveal a toned look.
At Princeton Plastic Surgeons, our goal is to deliver on your aesthetic goals and make you look and feel great with a tummy tuck in New Jersey.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a procedure that removes the extra loose skin and tissue in the lower abdomen and tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall. Patients seeking a tummy tuck may have recently lost a large amount of weight or given birth, leaving their abdominal skin sagging and muscles stretched out. Tummy tuck surgery with Dr. Hamawy in either of our New Jersey locations can help you regain your toned, youthful body as a procedure on its own, or be paired with other body contouring procedures such as liposuction for optimal results.
Quick Tummy Tuck Facts
- Length: 2-3 hours
- Anesthesia: General
- In/Outpatient: Outpatient or one night in hospital
- Side Effects: Possibility of bruising, swelling, and some pain
- Recovery: Return to work: 2 weeks – Light exercise: 4 weeks – Swelling completely resolve: 4-8 weeks
What Are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck?
Whether you’ve experienced changes due to pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or aging, a tummy tuck can help restore confidence and improve overall body contour. The procedure offers both aesthetic and functional benefits for individuals seeking a firmer, flatter abdomen. These include:
- Removal of excess skin and fat
- Tightening of weakened or separated abdominal muscles
- Improved posture and core stability
- Enhanced comfort in clothing
- Reduction in skin irritation or chafing
- Correction of diastasis recti (commonly post-pregnancy)
- Long-lasting results when paired with a healthy lifestyle
Am I an Ideal Candidate for a Tummy Tuck in New Jersey?
Ideal candidates for our tummy tuck in New Jersey are women and men who are in good shape but are not happy with the appearance of their midsection. These patients often experience:
- Loose abdominal skin
- Stretched out abdominal muscles
- Localized fat deposits
The above symptoms can be caused by:
- Pregnancy
- Significant weight loss
- Genetics
How Should I Prepare for a Tummy Tuck?
Preparing for a tummy tuck at Princeton Plastic Surgeons involves a few important steps to help ensure a smooth procedure and recovery. Our team will provide detailed instructions tailored to your health, lifestyle, and goals, but there are general guidelines to keep in mind as you get ready.
Steps to prepare for a tummy tuck may include:
- Undergo lab testing or a medical evaluation
- Stop smoking several weeks before surgery
- Avoid certain medications and supplements that increase bleeding
- Arrange for time off work and help at home during recovery
- Maintain a healthy, stable weight before surgery
- Fill prescriptions ahead of time for post-op care
- Prepare a recovery area with essentials like pillows, loose clothing, and hydration supplies
When Diet and Exercise Aren't Enough
Despite hours in the gym, it may seem impossible to tone a protruding abdomen or lax skin. This is because often times the stretching or sagging is to the point where it is not repairable by your own means and must be surgically addressed.
A tummy tuck is by no means a replacement for working out and eating well. It is a procedure reserved for those who have exercised and eaten well with no apparent results. Still continuing to work out and eat well is important to maintain tummy tuck results.
What Are the Different Tummy Tuck Techniques?
At Princeton Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Hamawy uses several techniques to treat a variety of cases. The technique used in your specific case will be determined during your consultation examination.
Full Tummy Tuck
A full tummy tuck removes lax skin and sutures the abdominal muscles above and below the bellybutton. An incision is created from hip to hip as well as around the bellybutton. The muscles are tightened, and the skin is then redraped with a new incision for the bellybutton as the old positioning is removed in the excision process.
Modified Tummy Tuck
A modified tummy tuck is a technique reserved for patients who need very minimal help in contouring their abdomen, as just the skin or just the muscles are addressed with this method. Results will not be as dramatic as a fully tummy tuck.
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck follows the same technique as a full tummy tuck, except on a much smaller scale. Muscle tightening is typically performed just on muscles below the bellybutton but can be performed above the belly button as well. There is also less skin excision in a mini tummy tuck, so the incision is roughly half the size of a full tummy tuck, and the resulting scar is easily concealable with jeans or a bikini.
High Lateral Tension Tummy Tuck
A high lateral tension or high-tension tummy tuck is great for women who desire the “corset” look. It follows the same technique as a full and mini tummy tuck, but in addition to removing excess skin and suturing the muscles vertically, the muscles are sutured horizontally as well. This additional step cinches the waist and gives more definition to the waistline.
Additional Techniques
- Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck – Click here for more info.
- Extended Tummy Tuck – Click here for more info.
What Can I Expect During My Consultation in New Jersey?
During your initial tummy tuck consultation at either of our New Jersey offices, Dr. Hamawy will examine and measure your abdomen, considering factors such as the quality of skin, the amount of underlying fatty tissue, and the contour of your body. Be prepared to discuss any medical conditions you may have such as allergies, prior surgeries and medications, vitamins or other supplements that you currently take.
It is important for you to provide complete information. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking at least 3 weeks before your surgery. Dr. Hamawy is concerned about your health and safety and, depending on your medical status, may ask for additional evaluations before proceeding with surgery.
You will learn about the procedure and its limitations and risks, and Dr. Hamawy will discuss your needs and concerns. He will explain which surgical techniques are most appropriate for you based on your examination and factors such as the distribution of fatty tissue, the position of your abdominal muscles and quality of skin tone. After your consultation, photographs will be taken for your medical records.
Ancillary and Alternative Procedures
There are many suitable ancillary or alternative procedure for a tummy tuck. Liposuction is a procedure which removes localized fat deposits with suction from the abdomen or any other part of the body, but does not tighten the skin.
SmartLipo is similar to liposuction, however instead of suctioning the fat from the body it uses specialized laser technology to melt the fat first, while simultaneously tightening the skin. Either one of these fat reduction procedures can be performed along with a tummy tuck for a flat, defined abdomen, or as alternatives if fat reduction is your main concern.
Mommy Makeover is a great combination procedure for mothers who wish to regain their defined, youthful bodies before their pregnancies. Popular Mommy Makeover procedures to choose from are breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, tummy tuck, and/or liposuction.
The Day of Surgery
You will meet your anesthetist before your NJ tummy tuck procedure and he or she will answer any questions you may have about your anesthesia.
Before your NJ tummy tuck, you’ll meet with your anesthetist to discuss your anesthesia. You’ll be given medication to reduce anxiety and pain, and general anesthesia will ensure you’re asleep during the 2–3 hour procedure. Surgery may take place at a certified surgery center or an affiliated hospital, with some patients staying overnight. Arrange for someone to drive you home and assist you for the first few days.
If needed, liposuction may be performed to improve contour. Dr. Hamawy will mark the incision line, typically just above the pubis and extending from hip to hip. Once under anesthesia, the skin is lifted, the belly button released, abdominal muscles tightened, and excess skin removed. Dissolvable sutures close the incision, and a compression garment is placed before you wake up.
What Is Recovery Like After a Tummy Tuck?
Be assured that your relationship with Dr. Hamawy does not end after your tummy tuck in New Jersey. If you have any concerns during your recovery or have more questions at a later time, you can always contact Dr. Hamawy.
Some discomfort and tightness are normal after surgery, and you’ll receive prescriptions for pain relief. Your abdomen will feel tight, and you may walk slightly bent for the first week, gradually straightening as you heal. A binder or compression garment should be worn day and night for three weeks. Scars will initially be noticeable, fading from red to light brown or white over several months, usually hidden by clothing. Most patients return to work within two to three weeks, but physical activity is limited for at least six weeks. Drains, if used, are typically removed within 5–7 days. Follow-up visits begin within the first week and continue at about 3 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and one year to monitor your recovery and address any concerns.
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost in New Jersey?
After your initial consultation, you will be quoted a price that will include Dr. Hamawy’s fee as well as the operating room and any anesthesia fees. If you have any chronic rashes or infections due to excessive overhanging skin on your lower abdomen, insurance may sometimes cover part of the costs. Please bring your insurance information with you to your initial consultation.
Why Choose Princeton Plastic Surgeons for Tummy Tuck in New Jersey?
Dr. Hamawy approaches every tummy tuck in New Jersey with the belief that no two patients are the same. He takes the time to understand your unique concerns, lifestyle, and goals to create a surgical plan that fits your body and supports long-term results. Known for his attention to detail and emphasis on patient education, Dr. Hamawy blends technical skill with an artistic eye to help you achieve smoother, firmer abdominal contours and renewed self-confidence.
- Board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Trained at UT Southwestern Medical Center and Weill Cornell Medical College
- Served as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army
- Formerly practiced at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, WA
- Member of the American College of Surgeons, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Tummy Tuck FAQ
Will I have visible scarring after a tummy tuck?
Some scarring is unavoidable, but our skilled surgeons place incisions strategically to minimize visibility. Over time, these scars usually fade and become less noticeable.
How soon can I start exercising after a tummy tuck?
It's essential to follow your surgeon's guidelines. Typically, light exercise can be resumed about four weeks post-surgery, with a gradual increase in activity levels to ensure a smooth recovery.
Is a tummy tuck only for women?
No, tummy tucks are also sought after by men who want to achieve a more toned and defined abdominal area, especially after significant weight loss or changes in body shape.
Will a tummy tuck help me lose weight?
While it’s true that a tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat, it is not a method for weight loss. It works best for individuals near their ideal weight who have persistent loose skin and muscle laxity.
Can a tummy tuck improve the appearance of stretch marks?
Yes, a tummy tuck can often remove stretch marks on the lower abdomen, particularly those within the area of skin that is removed.
How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?
The outcomes of a tummy tuck can be enduring, particularly if you maintain a healthy lifestyle. While aging will naturally progress, the enhancements achieved through a tummy tuck can remain noticeable for many years.
Will I need to stay overnight in the hospital after a tummy tuck?
The specifics of your tummy tuck will determine whether it's an outpatient procedure or if you'll need to stay in the hospital overnight for monitoring. Your surgeon will go over the best option for you during your consultation.
How do I choose the right surgeon for my tummy tuck?
As you know, selecting the right surgeon is crucial to achieving the best possible results. Dr. Adam Hamawy, a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in tummy tucks, offers an excellent choice. His skill, personalized approach, and dedication to patient satisfaction guarantee top-quality care.
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Princeton Plastic Surgeons, based in the New Jersey area, boasts board-certified surgeons who specialize in procedures such as facelifts, breast lifts, breast augmentations, and tummy tucks.