Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

Abdominoplasty is more popular for women, but Dr. Pollard also performs the procedure on men, usually under general anesthesia. Because this is an aggressive surgery, recuperation typically takes several weeks or even months. Recovery time depends on the extent of the abdominoplasty and the patient’s general physical condition, although most patients can return to work from one to three weeks following surgery.

In the absence of a pregnancy or other significant weight gain, the results of a tummy tuck can remain for many years. Gravity and the effects of aging, however, can eventually take their toll.  If you ever do become dissatisfied with the appearance of your abdomen, this procedure can be performed again.

Please call 610-667-3303 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Pollard at her Bala Cynwyd office, near Philadelphia, to discuss abdominoplasty.  Patients from other parts of Pennsylvania, or other states, may wish to complete a confidential Inquiry Request Form. We can provide information about transportation, hotels and dining in the Philadelphia area.

 

FAQs

 

Liposuction or abdominoplasty – which do I need?

Dr. Pollard will fully discuss both procedures with you before any decision is made. In many instances, your physical examination will determine which procedure—or a combination of both—best suits your need. Liposuction usually addresses localized collections of fat, while abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen.

Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?

Yes, you can get pregnant after a tummy tuck without injury to yourself or to the infant. To maintain the surgical result, however, you should have tummy tucks performed after childbearing.

Am I a candidate for a tummy tuck?

Abdominoplasty is used to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. The procedure is appropriate for patients with weakened abdominal wall muscles due to pregnancy or fluctuations in weight, as well as patients with excessive and hanging abdominal skin. For patients with localized fat and good skin tone, liposuction is recommended.

Back to top

Can abdominoplasty get rid of old scars and stretch marks?

Yes. Depending on the locations, abdominoplasty can permanently remove stretch marks and scars of the lower abdomen beneath the umbilicus.

If I am obese, can I still have abdominoplasty?

The decision to perform abdominoplasty is made by Dr. Pollard. She may recommend weight loss prior to cosmetic abdominoplasty for some patients. Liposuction and abdominoplasty cannot reduce fat in and around abdominal organs. Morbidly obese patients with excessive skin and fat may be advised to undergo a panniculectomy, which is used to treat severe cases where hanging skin causes rashes, irritation, and personal hygiene problems.

Back to top

What happens to my navel (belly button)?

The scars should be less than one-half of an inch in length. Some will For patients undergoing a tummy tuck, loose skin above the navel can be pulled down and trimmed away through the use of an incision around the navel. The position of the navel remains unchanged.

What are the risks of abdominoplasty?

All surgery carries some uncertainty and risk. Dr. Pollard carefully reviews the risks, limitations, and possible complications of each procedure with every patient. You can minimize your risk of complications by quitting smoking, eating a nutritious diet, and keeping your diabetes and high blood pressure under control.

What can I do to prepare for an abdominoplasty?

Maintain your weight and develop strength in your core muscles (abdominal, flank, and back muscles). Dr. Pollard will alter the amount of skin and fat on your torso, but you must work to maintain good muscle tone.  Pilates or Pilates-like exercises can strengthen your core muscles. 

I live in Western Pennsylvania. What hotels are near Dr. Pollard's plastic surgery practice?

Click here to see a list of nearby hotels.

Do I have my choice of surgery centers in Philadelphia where Dr. Pollard will perform my tummy tuck?

In Philadelphia, tummy tucks may be performed in a hospital or in a qualified surgical center. Dr. Pollard performs surgery at  Lankenau Hospital, Bryn Mawr Hospital, or the  Main Line Surgery Center.

Some states (New Jersey) impose a 6% tax on cosmetic medical procedures. Does Pennsylvania have a plastic surgery tax on tummy tucks?

No. In Pennsylvania tummy tucks are not taxed.

 

Back to top

Dr. Pollard invites you to call today to schedule your in-office consultation, or click here to request more information.

For more information about tummy tucks visit ASPS website

Emily Pollard, MD, FACS - Plastic and Reconstructive Therapy