Tummy Tuck
Achieving a flatter, firmer abdomen can be challenging, especially after significant weight loss or pregnancy. A tummy tuck by Columbia, Maryland board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sarah Mess offers a solution for those struggling with excess skin, stubborn fat, and weakened abdominal muscles. Whether you’re looking to restore your pre-pregnancy figure or refine your body contours after weight loss, or you simply want a flatter tummy, Dr. Mess provides expert care to help you achieve your desired results.
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What is a Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tuck surgery, also called abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure performed to tighten and sculpt the upper and lower abdomen. During this procedure, excess fat and loose skin are removed from the abdominal area, and the abdominal muscles are tightened to create a more youthful-looking
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Tummy Tuck
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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midsection.
What Can a Tummy Tuck Do?
In 2022, more than 170,000 people had tummy tuck surgery in the
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2023 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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U.S.
There are many potential benefits of tummy tuck surgery:
Remove Sagging Abdominal Skin
Sagging abdominal skin can result from weight loss, pregnancy, or the natural aging process. It often appears very wrinkled and can even hang past the pubic hair line. Tummy tuck surgery will remove this unsightly skin to provide a slimmer and toner result that will boost both comfort and confidence.
Tighten Loosened Abdominal Muscles
Diastasis recti, or loosened abdominal muscles, can occur from pregnancy or weight gain. Even after weight is lost, the separated muscles push outward, leading to a permanently protruding abdomen. Exercise is often ineffective in improving diastasis recti, but tummy tuck surgery can tighten these muscles to create a firm, sculpted foundation.
Restore Your Pre-Pregnancy Body
Even women with “great genes” experience significant changes in their body after pregnancy and childbirth. Tummy tuck surgery will repair and restore stretched abdominal muscles, remove excess fat, and tighten the skin to reveal a youthful-looking midsection.
Remove Stretch Marks
Stretch marks occur as a result of weight gain, pregnancy, or aging. They often appear on the lower abdomen where much of the skin is removed during an abdominoplasty. If stretch marks coincide with the excess skin that is to be removed, they will be removed along with it.
Combine with Other Procedures for Comprehensive Body Contouring
An abdominoplasty is often a foundational procedure in a mommy makeover, which is a personalized treatment plan to restore a youthful body. Tummy tuck patients often add liposuction, and one study reported a 99% satisfaction rate among patients who had abdominoplasty with
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Liposuction and Tummy Tuck Improve Quality of Life, Reports Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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liposuction.
Increase Comfort During Routine Activities
Excess abdominal skin can lead to difficulty performing exercise and routine activities. With this extra skin out of the way, patients are freed from these limitations.
In December 2013, Dr. Mess performed liposuction on my thighs as well as a tummy tuck, which was done in conjunction with my hernia repair. I have to say that she did an amazing job! I am extremely happy with the results... I think that Dr. Mess is definitely one of the best cosmetic surgeons around. I am more than pleased with the results of my recent surgery, and I would enthusiastically recommend her to my friends and family.
Sherri - GoogleYour Tummy Tuck Options
During your consultation, Dr. Sarah Mess will personally evaluate your body to determine if a mini tummy tuck or a full tummy tuck will give you the results you desire.
MINI TUMMY TUCK
A mini tummy tuck will remove excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen using a smaller incision than a full tummy tuck. The abdominal muscles are also tightened if necessary.
- Addresses the lower abdomen only
- Involves a shorter scar than a full tummy tuck
- Involves a shorter recovery time than a full tummy tuck
FULL TUMMY TUCK
A full tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, both above and below the navel, and tightens stretched abdominal muscles.
- Addresses the upper and lower abdomen
- Tightens the abdominal muscles
- Removes excess fat and tightens skin
FLEUR DE LIS TUMMY TUCK
A Fleur de Lis tummy tuck is designed for patients with significant excess skin in both the upper and lower abdomen. This technique involves a vertical and horizontal incision, allowing for more comprehensive skin removal and contouring.
- Addresses both upper and lower abdomen
- Removes excess skin in both vertical and horizontal planes
- Ideal for patients with significant weight loss
Before & After Photos
Patient aged 45-54
Photos taken 6 weeks post tummy tuck.
Tummy Tuck Recovery
Dr. Mess will give you detailed postoperative instructions and guidelines regarding what you can expect for recovery, downtime, and results. In general, you can expect the following:
Immediately After
Immediately after surgery, your incisions will be dressed in bandages, and you will likely be instructed to wear a compression garment, which will help reduce swelling and help your skin adhere to the newly sculpted contours. You will have arranged for someone to drive you home and care for you during the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery, when you will be getting plenty of rest.
Weeks 1 and 2
Most patients can resume work after one to two weeks as long as it does not involve strenuous activity. Swelling and bruising will still be apparent at this time but will subside over the next few weeks. Prescribed medications will ease any discomfort you may experience.
Weeks 3 and 4
Many patients can be cleared for light physical activity after the third week, but they should still pay attention to the way their body responds. It may be wise to continue to rest and drink plenty of fluids for another week.
Week 5
By the fifth week, most of the swelling and bruising has dissipated, and patients usually feel able to resume regular activities and exercises. Follow-up visits should be scheduled to ensure recovery is going smoothly and that the results meet your expectations.
Preparing for Your Tummy Tuck
Proper preparation is crucial for a successful tummy tuck. Dr. Sarah Mess will provide personalized instructions, but here are key steps to consider:
- Medical Evaluation: You’ll undergo a thorough health assessment to confirm you’re a suitable candidate.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Maintain a healthy diet, exercise, and stop smoking several weeks before and after surgery to aid healing.
- Medications: Follow Dr. Mess’s guidance on adjusting or avoiding certain medications or supplements before surgery.
- Arrange for Assistance: Ensure someone is available to drive you home and help during your initial recovery.
- Home Setup: Prepare a comfortable recovery space with essentials like medications, water, and extra pillows.
The Abdominoplasty Procedure
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles. Dr. Sarah Mess customizes the approach based on your unique needs and aesthetic goals.
- Anesthesia: The tummy tuck procedure begins with the administration of general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the surgery.
- Incision:
- For a mini tummy tuck, a smaller horizontal incision is made just above the pubic area, focusing on the lower abdomen.
- A traditional or full tummy tuck involves a longer horizontal incision from hip to hip, addressing both the upper and lower abdomen. In some cases, an incision around the navel may be necessary.
- The Fleur de Lis tummy tuck includes both a horizontal incision above the pubic area and a vertical incision down the middle of the abdomen, allowing for more extensive skin removal and contouring.
- Muscle Tightening: The abdominal muscles are tightened and sutured, creating a firmer, more toned midsection.
- Skin Removal and Contouring: Excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is carefully repositioned to create a smooth, natural contour. If needed, liposuction may be used to refine the results further.
- Closing the Incision: Once the desired contour is achieved, the incisions are closed with sutures. Drains may be placed to remove excess fluid during the initial recovery period.
The entire procedure typically takes several hours, depending on the extent of correction needed. Following surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery area where you’ll be closely monitored before going home to begin your recovery.
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?
We believe patients make better decisions when they understand the options and cost ranges for tummy tuck surgery. We are happy to provide a basic price range for tummy tuck surgery, but final costs cannot be determined prior to your consultation with Dr. Mess.
Most tummy tucks are scheduled from 3-4 hours. Some will take a little less time, and others will require more. Many patients combine back or thigh liposuction with their tummy tuck to achieve 360 body contouring results. Dr. Mess will help you determine the best options to achieve your aesthetic goals.
The best way to determine your plastic surgery procedure pricing is to come in for a consultation with Dr. Mess. Our Columbia office is conveniently located and easily accessible from both Washington, D.C. and Baltimore.
Our surgical estimates are comprehensive. Your tummy tuck surgery quote will include:
- Surgeon’s fee for tummy tuck
- Operating room fees and supply charges
- Anesthesia fees
- Post-surgical garments
- Exparel (long acting, non-opioid for post-operative pain management)
- All appointments before or after your surgery
Price Range for a tummy tuck: $13,000-$16,000 (budget an additional $4,000-$5,000 if adding back liposuction). Your costs may fall outside of this range.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tummy Tuck Surgery
Do Men Get Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Yes! Dr. Mess has helped many male patients get the toned, sculpted body that they want with abdominoplasty. A tummy tuck can help men who are not able to get the results they want from diet and exercise and men who have loose abdominal skin from weight loss.
What Will My Tummy Tuck Scars Look Like?
Dr. Sarah Mess is experienced in strategic incision placement and she will place your tummy tuck incision as low as possible so that it can be hidden by underwear and swimsuits. Your genetics, skin type, and your aftercare will also play a part in how much your scar fades.
What Are The Risks of Tummy Tuck Surgery?
All surgical procedures carry some risk of complications or side effects. Possible risks of abdominoplasty include bleeding, infection, unfavorable scarring, and changes in skin
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Tummy Tuck
Mayo Clinic
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sensation.
Dr. Mess upholds high safety standards in order to optimize your surgical outcome.
Am I A Candidate for Tummy Tuck Surgery?
If you have loose skin on your stomach or distended muscles as a result of aging, weight loss, or pregnancy, then a tummy tuck could be the solution for you. Ideal candidates for abdominoplasty are non-smokers who are at a healthy weight, which they have maintained for at least one
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Who is a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery?
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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year.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you’re considering a tummy tuck or want to learn more about your options, Dr. Sarah Mess and her team in Columbia, Maryland, are here to help. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward achieving your aesthetic goals.
Sources1 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Tummy Tuck. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/tummy-tuck/procedure. Accessed August 21, 2024.
2 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 2023 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/plastic-surgery-statistics#. Accessed August 21, 2024.
3 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Liposuction and Tummy Tuck Improve Quality of Life, Reports Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/press-releases/liposuction-and-tummy-tuck-improve-quality-of-life-reports-plastic-and-reconstructive-surgery Accessed January 2, 2020.
4 Mayo Clinic. Tummy Tuck. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tummy-tuck/about/pac-20384892. Accessed August 21, 2024.
5 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Who is a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/tummy-tuck/candidates Accessed August 21, 2024..
Dr. Sarah Mess has either authored or reviewed and approved this content. Page Updated
