Tummy Tuck Procedure: Essential Guide to Recovery and Results

The tummy tuck procedure is a popular choice for individuals looking to regain a firmer, more toned midsection after significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging. It can address common concerns like loose skin, stubborn fat, and weakened abdominal muscles. If you’re in Richmond, VA, and considering this transformative surgery, Stanwix Plastic Surgery offers personalized solutions to help you achieve your body goals. Read on to discover everything you need to know about the tummy tuck procedure, from how it works to what to expect during recovery.

Tummy Tuck Procedure

  • The tummy tuck procedure varies depending on your individual goals and the degree of correction desired. In a standard tummy tuck, your plastic surgeon will make an incision to remove excess skin and fat located between the belly button and the pubic area, typically in a horizontal, oval, or elliptical shape. The connective tissue (fascia) over the abdominal muscles is then tightened using permanent sutures to enhance core stability and create a flatter appearance.

The extent of skin removal and the type of tummy tuck procedure performed will influence the incision’s length and placement. Generally, the incision is positioned just above the pubic hairline and is carefully closed to leave a scar that aligns with the natural bikini line, making it less noticeable. Additionally, your surgeon will adjust the surrounding skin and reposition your belly button, bringing it through a small incision to maintain its natural look and placement.

After the Tummy Tuck Procedure

  • Following your tummy tuck procedure, the abdominal incision and belly button are typically covered with surgical dressings. Small drainage tubes may be placed near the incision site to help remove any excess blood or fluid that can accumulate during the initial healing period. Your healthcare team will encourage you to start walking as early as the first day post-surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots. Pain management will include prescribed medications, and it’s normal to experience some swelling in the treated area.

To support your recovery, you’ll wear an abdominal binder for about six weeks. This supportive garment helps minimize fluid buildup, provides essential support to the abdominal area, and aids in the healing process. Your surgeon will also offer guidance on scar care to ensure optimal healing. For the first six weeks, it’s important to avoid movements or positions that put strain on your incision, such as bending at the waist. This precaution helps prevent complications like wound reopening. 

Take the Next Step to Reclaim your ConfidenceWoman hand, body weight and loss for liposuction, tummy tuck and abdomen in underwear in grey studi

  • If you’re ready to restore your body and confidence with a tummy tuck procedure, Stanwix Plastic Surgery is here to help. Dr. Matthew G. Stanwix, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Richmond, VA, specializes in tummy tuck procedures tailored to meet your unique needs. With a personalized approach and state-of-the-art techniques, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve the results you desire.

Hear from our client:

“Dr. Stanwix is absolutely the best person that could of performed my surgery, he went above and beyond my expectations. His level of compassion is almost non existant with doctors today. If he had a life threatening disease and needed a lung I would not hesitate to forfeit one of mine that’s how strongly I feel about the level of service I received from Dr. Stanwix. I have absolutely nothing negative to say about him or his character. He changed my life!!!”

Ready to explore your cosmetic surgery options? Contact Stanwix Plastic Surgery in Richmond, VA, to schedule a consultation with Dr. Matthew G. Stanwix. With over 13 years of experience, Dr. Stanwix provides personalized consultations and expert care to achieve beautiful, natural-looking results. Serving clients throughout Richmond, Charlottesville, Williamsburg, and beyond.

start your journey