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Tummy Tuck FAQs
Abdominoplasty Questions & Answers
An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a medical procedure that removes excess skin and fat in the abdominal region of the body. This procedure shouldn’t be done as an alternative to weight loss through diet and exercise. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers about tummy tucks.
Recovery times can vary depending on your body type, but generally it can take up to 8 weeks before patients begin to feel like their normal selves again. Your Mercy surgeon will discuss your more specific timeframe for recovery with you.
A good candidate for tummy tuck surgery is someone who has recently lost a lot of weight or has loose skin hanging over their pubic area, which can cause problems with hygiene and make it difficult to fit into certain clothes.
Tummy tucks are generally considered to be out-of-pocket procedures, since most insurance providers won’t cover the associated costs. However, you should still check with your insurance provider, since everyone’s circumstances are different.
A mini tummy tuck is when your Mercy surgeon makes an incision in order to remove excess skin and tighten loose muscles. It’s usually a shorter procedure than a full tummy tuck, which can make recovery times faster.
As with any surgery, there are many risks associated with tummy tucks. Common risks include complications from anesthesia, infection and bleeding. Talk with your Mercy doctor about these and other risks if you’re considering this procedure.
How long your tummy tuck procedure takes depends on what kind of surgery you elect to have. Generally, these procedures can last anywhere from 1 to 5 hours, and you may be asked to stay overnight in the hospital.
