Tummy Tuck at Power Plastic Surgery

Having a toned stomach is one of the most common patient requests we receive at Power Plastic Surgery. The abdomen is one of the first locations to show signs of weight gain for many individuals. Excess skin and fatty tissue often develop in the abdominal area due to the effects of aging, pregnancies, and weight gain. Skin gradually loses elasticity and is stretched beyond its ability to contract following weight loss.

However, a tummy tuck surgery can address any and all of these concerns, improving the contour of the stomach, firmness of the muscles, and tightness of skin.

Tummy Tuck Symptoms

Tummy tuck patients often present with abdominal wall weakness in addition to a central bulge, due to separation between the abdominal muscles following pregnancies or significant weight fluctuation. This muscle gap is often more pronounced following multiple pregnancies, multiple births, and large birth weight babies. Candidates for tummy tuck surgery also commonly develop stretch marks.

"I think the best results are natural-looking. Refreshed and reflected by a patient’s self-confidence."

- DR. STEPHANIE POWER

How is a Tummy Tuck Performed?

A tummy tuck surgical procedure is performed under general anesthesia and patients are generally admitted to the overnight facility in Toronto until the following morning for observation and pain control.

Dr. Power, a Royal College-certified plastic surgeon, creates an incision on the lower abdomen, from hip to hip, and a small incision around the umbilicus (belly button). Excess skin and subcutaneous fat tissue is removed and the abdominal muscles can be repaired and tightened in the midline.

The incisions are closed in a way that any permanent scarring can be concealed by underwear and swimwear.

Preparing for Abdominoplasty

During initial consultation about a tummy tuck, Dr. Power will gather your detailed medical history and perform an examination to rule out contraindications for tummy tuck surgery and to determine if any pre-existing conditions may require optimization prior to surgery. 

You may wonder, is a tummy tuck painful? During your consultation, we will go over the ins and outs of the procedure, including the anesthesia used, recovery after surgery, and proper aftercare.

Tummy tuck candidates must quit smoking at least 4 weeks before and after the operation to lower risk of complications. Smoking is associated with higher incidence of infection and partial abdominal flap necrosis (skin death), which may result in a large region of the stomach to experience delayed wound healing. 

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction

Although tummy tuck can dramatically improve the appearance of the abdomen by tightening abdominal wall muscles and removing excess fat and skin, it is a major cosmetic surgery. Patients often inquire regarding a less invasive option—for example, liposuction—to address excess abdominal skin and fatty tissue.

Unfortunately liposuction or other non-surgical plastic surgery procedures are typically not an option for most patients who have had pregnancies or significant weight fluctuation, given that the skin has lost elasticity. In these cases, simply suctioning away excess fat wouldn’t help, as skin would not contract adequately afterwards. This would increase the amount of loose skin and negatively affect the appearance of the stomach.

Who is a Suitable Candidate for a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?

Patients considering a tummy tuck are generally interested in flattening and firming their abdominal contour. Anyone who struggles with stretch marks, muscle laxity, loose skin, or persistent fat that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise may be a good candidate for tummy tuck procedures. In addition, a candidate for any type of elective plastic surgery procedure should have well-defined concerns about their appearance and achievable goals through plastic surgery procedures.

Body weight, weight history, and pregnancy history are also important considerations for Toronto tummy tuck surgery. The recommended body mass index (BMI) for patients considering abdominoplasty is less than 30–ideally closer to or less than 25–and stable weight for at least 6 months pre-operatively.

It is recommended for tummy tuck candidates to have completed pregnancies before proceeding with tummy tuck surgery. Although it is possible to carry a full-term pregnancy following abdominoplasty, this would place significant tension on the rectus plication (muscle repair site) and further stretch abdominal soft tissues. Revision procedure may be required following significant weight loss or pregnancy after abdominoplasty has been performed.

Candidates for a tummy tuck should also keep in mind that if significant weight loss occurs after a tummy tuck, it may result in additional excess skin and soft tissue which can make tummy tuck results less predictable.

Causes of Common Abdominoplasty Candidate Conditions

People who have been pregnant in the past or have experienced significant weight fluctuation often develop excess subcutaneous tissue (whether fat or glandular tissue), decreased skin elasticity, and excess skin that results in skin folds and abdominal striae (stretch marks).

In addition to these skin and soft tissue changes, rectus diastasis (gapping between the rectus abdominus muscles) commonly develops in patients with a history of pregnancy or severe weight loss that may reduce core strength and lead to abdominal bulging. Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck surgery, addresses these concerns by resecting excess skin and subcutaneous tissue from the abdomen as well as tightening and reinforcing the rectus muscles in the midline.

What are the Different Types of Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Surgery?

The three most common types are the standard tummy tuck, a mini-tummy tuck, and a circumferential tummy tuck. The extent of abdominal skin laxity will be carefully assessed during your clinical examination with Dr. Power to determine the most appropriate technique to achieve your goals.

STANDARD TUMMY TUCK

A standard tummy tuck is the most common technique performed to address skin redundancy of both the anterior abdomen—including the upper abdomen—as well as rectus diastasis. It includes making an incision along the lower abdomen from hip to hip, as well as a small additional incision around the belly button.

MINI TUMMY TUCK

Patients in Toronto with a lesser degree of excess or loose skin and subcutaneous tissue limited to the lower abdomen may be candidates for a mini tummy tuck. This procedure is less invasive than a regular tummy tuck procedure and does not alter the abdomen above the umbilicus (belly button). Additionally, there is no scar around the umbilicus.

A mini tummy tuck may be recommended for patients whose loose skin and excess fat is limited to the region below the navel.

CIRCUMFERENTIAL TUMMY TUCK

If skin laxity extends to your back, which is common in patients following bariatric surgery and significant weight loss, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Power may recommend a circumferential tummy tuck. The excision procedure is extended around the body onto the lower back to address excess skin and fat in this region, which improves overall contour.

Toronto Tummy Tuck Recovery and Results

A tummy tuck procedure is highly effective at flattening and firming your abdominal muscles, removing excess skin and fat tissue, and often, repairing rectus diastasis (gapping between the rectus—“six-pack”—muscles) that commonly results after pregnancy or significant fluctuations in body weight.

Here’s what tummy tuck patients can expect following surgery:

  • Patients are generally admitted overnight following surgery for monitoring in our Toronto recovery suite.
  • You will be closely monitored to ensure that there is no significant bleeding and that you are tolerating oral pain medication and are able to walk short distances prior to discharge home.
  • Two drains are typically placed to lower the risk of fluid accumulation under the abdominal flap, which could lead to wound healing complications or infection.
  • You will be instructed on how to care for and measure drain output at home. Dr. Power generally removes the drains within the first week of surgery once output has decreased to an appropriate amount.
  • Dr. Power recommends patients to begin showering daily starting the day after the procedure and to change the gauze underneath the abdominal binder.
  • You will need to wear your compression garment for 6 weeks following surgery. It provides additional support for the muscle repair during early healing and lowers the risk of fluid accumulation.
  • Small pieces of surgical tape will be placed over the incisions for the first one to two weeks after tummy tuck surgery.
  • A tummy tuck scar will heal in the incision area after tummy tuck surgery.

What is the Anticipated Recovery After Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?

  • Patients are generally able to resume office work (paperwork equivalent) within 1-2 weeks following a tummy tuck.
  • Pain medication is usually required for the first few days following surgery.
  • Dr. Power also prescribes a short course of antibiotics to lower risk of infection while the drains are in place.
  • Specific recommendations for activity modifications will be made for you based on your job activity level and requirements.
  • Patients may resume exercising 6 weeks post-operatively, which ensures that the muscle repair site has healed well by this stage.

How Much Should I Weigh Before Considering Tummy Tuck Surgery?

It is recommended for patients to achieve a healthy body mass index (BMI) prior to surgery. This will lower the risk of surgical and anesthetic complications and also result in a better aesthetic outcome. Ideally a BMI less than 25 is recommended pre-operatively.

Tummy tucks are not a weight loss surgery. They are performed to improve abdominal contour in people who are at or close to their ideal weight. At higher body mass indexes (BMIs), patients often present with increased fatty tissue within the abdomen, called visceral fat, that is deep within the abdomen. It surrounds body organs and is not addressed by surgical tummy tuck procedures. It is also the type of fat linked with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other systemic illnesses. If abdominoplasty is performed on a patient with significant visceral fat, the abdominal contour may still be rotund after surgery.

Should I Have a Mini or Full Tummy Tuck?

Few patients are candidates for a mini tummy tuck if rectus diastasis (muscle separation) is present. A mini tummy tuck may be an option for a slender patient with very little excess skin and soft tissue that is limited to the lower abdomen only. A mini tummy tuck does not address the abdomen above the level of the belly button.

Are the Effects of Tummy Tuck Long-Lasting?

As many board-certified plastic surgeons agree, a tummy tuck can provide body contour benefits for many years, as long as one maintains a healthy diet and exercise regimen post-operatively..

What Are The Potential Complications of a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?

When performed by board-qualified plastic surgeons, tummy tucks are highly successful and low-risk procedure. However, because tummy tuck procedures are invasive surgeries, there are always risks involved, both local and systemic. Dr. Power will explain your specific risks and risk factors associated with your abdominoplasty during your consultation.

Local complications

  • Bleeding
  • Hematoma (collection of blood or ongoing bleeding deep to the abdominal flap)
  • Seroma (fluid collection)
  • Infection
  • Delayed wound healing
  • Dehiscence (wound separation)
  • Partial skin flap or umbilical necrosis
  • Failure of the plication sutures
  • Hypertrophic or widened scarring
  • Overcorrection
  • Undercorrection
  • Asymmetry
  • Systemic complications
  • Thromboembolism – deep venous thrombosis (DVT)
  • Pulmonary embolism (PE)
  • Potential complications related to general anesthetic

How Can I Reduce Tummy Tuck Risks and Complications?

Dr. Power of Power Plastic Surgery takes many precautions to lower risk of complications associated with tummy tuck and mini tummy tuck procedures. Patients are evaluated based on risk factors for thromboembolism (blood clot) development. For patients at low risk, thromboembolic deterrent (TED) stockings and sequential compression devices (SCDs) are applied before general anesthesia is introduced for the procedure. SCDs intermittently tighten around the lower part of the body throughout surgery and during early recovery until patients are able to move around well.

Through a pumping mechanism, SCDs increase blood flow to the heart and decrease blood pooling in the lower extremities, which lowers the risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) formation. Patients are also recommended to begin walking shortly after abdominoplasty procedures to encourage normal circulation. Those at higher risk for thromboembolic events may require anticoagulant (blood thinners), which can lower the patient’s risk of developing DVT or PE by decreasing blood viscosity.

Despite the potential complications of a tummy tuck, Power Plastic Surgery completes rigorous patient selection procedures and optimizes operations accordingly, even consulting with other medical services as needed, to make a tummy tuck Toronto a well-tolerated surgery with high patient satisfaction.

Tummy Tuck Procedure in Toronto

For medical excellence and naturally beautiful results from a tummy tuck surgery, or abdominoplasty, Power Plastic Surgery may be the right choice for you. As a board-certified plastic surgeon who has performed hundreds of successful procedures for Toronto area patients, Dr. Stephanie Power is ready to hear about your goals for abdominal rejuvenation. Call Power Plastic Surgery at 416-962-1010 or request your consultation online to learn more how a tummy tuck procedure can benefit you.

Tummy Tuck FAQs

Are tummy tucks dangerous?

It is important to understand the risks of a tummy tuck. If performed on a healthy non-smoker at an appropriate body weight, risks are low. Elective cosmetic surgery should not be performed if considered dangerous based on a patients medical conditions or lifestyle factors.

Can a tummy tuck cause stomach issues?

You may experience temporary bloating or constipation due to pain medication after surgery, but it is unlikely for a tummy tuck to cause stomach issues.

Can I walk after tummy tuck?

Yes, you can walk after a tummy tuck and you are encouraged to walk short distances during early healing. This may lower the risk of developing a blood clot (deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) related to immobilization.

Can you get a tummy tuck if youre obese?

It is generally not recommended for you to get a tummy tuck if you are obese. Achieving a healthy body weight (BMI under 30, ideally less than 25) is important to lower risk of complications and to achieve a better aesthetic outcome.

Do you get a scar from a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck leaves a scar along the lower abdomen from hip to hip and a smaller scar around the belly button.

Do you have to be skinny to get a tummy tuck?

You do not have to be skinny, but it is important to achieve a healthy body weight before undergoing a tummy tuck. Surgery does not address fat within the abdomen (called visceral fat), which is linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. You will also achieve a better cosmetic result if you lose weight before a tummy tuck.

Does a tummy tuck tighten muscles?

A tummy tuck tightens the abdominal wall (rectus abdominis) muscles. These muscles commonly develop a separation following pregnancy and weight fluctuation.

How are tummy tucks done?

Tummy tucks are done under general anesthetic. Excess skin and fatty tissue is removed from the lower abdomen below the belly button. The abdominal wall muscles are tightened. The skin and soft tissues of the upper abdomen are then elevated and pulled down to close the incision. Lastly the belly button - which stays attached to the abdominal wall during surgery - is then uncovered.

How long after a tummy tuck can you drink?

You may start drinking sips of water immediately after a tummy tuck in the recovery room. Your diet is then gradually advanced. You should refrain from drinking alcohol while taking pain medication.

How long do tummy tucks last?

The results from a tummy tuck should be permanent as long as you maintain a stable weight. If planning future pregnancies, you should achieve and maintain a healthy body weight after your last child before undergoing a tummy tuck.

How long do you wear a binder after surgery?

The abdominal binder is recommended for 6 weeks post-operatively. This provides support to the muscle repair site, decreases swelling, and may lower the risk of seroma (fluid accumulation).

How long does it take to lose weight after a tummy tuck?

You should not lose weight after a tummy tuck in order to maintain a stable aesthetic outcome. Weight loss after a tummy tuck may cause loose skin of the lower abdomen to recur. It is important to monitor your body weight during early healing since you will be less active. Gaining weight during recovery may also affect your cosmetic outcome.

How much does it cost for a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck costs $10000 on average. Your surgical quote will outline surgical, facility, and anesthesia fees. For your comfort, it is also recommended to stay overnight at 199 Avenue Road following tummy tuck surgery. You will receive dedicated nursing care, pain control, and close monitoring during your early recovery.

How much weight can you lose having a tummy tuck?

You will not lose much weight from a tummy tuck, generally less than a pound or two. Removal of loose skin and fatty tissue is more effective in contouring the abdomen than weight reduction.

How painful is a tummy tuck?

Patients often report discomfort for a few days post-operatively, generally related to the muscle repair site. The muscle sheath (outer layer) is injected with long-acting local anesthetic towards the end of surgery. This provides a bridge as the oral pain medication takes effect. It is recommended to walk short distances around your home during early healing to lower risk of venous thromboembolism (blood clots). Walking with your waist slightly flexed over the first few days may also reduce discomfort. Within a few days patients are able to wean prescription pain medication by taking Tylenol extra-strength or plain and then discontinuing all analgesia when able. It is recommended to avoid anti-inflammatories for one month post-operatively to lower risk of bleeding.

Is it easier to lose weight after a tummy tuck?

You should not lose much weight after a tummy tuck since it may result in recurrence of loose skin.

What qualifies you for a tummy tuck?

If you are concerned about loose skin and fatty tissue of your abdomen, you may qualify for a tummy tuck. You should also be a healthy non-smoker at appropriate body weight with no plans for future pregnancies.

When can I start working out after tummy tuck?

You may resume light exercise at one month after tummy tuck. You may resume full activity including core exercises at 6 weeks post-op.

When can I wear regular clothes after tummy tuck?

You may wear regular clothes soon after a tummy tuck. Keep in mind that you will need to wear the abdominal binder for 6 weeks, so you might prefer to avoid tight clothing over that time period.

Who is a good candidate for tummy tuck?

A good candidate for a tummy tuck has cosmetic concerns about loose skin (and fatty tissue to a lesser extent) of the abdomen. The ideal candidate is otherwise healthy, a non-smoker, and has achieved a stable and healthy body weight.

Can you get pregnant after tummy tuck?

You can get pregnant after tummy tuck surgery. If planning future pregnancies however, it is recommended to delay tummy tuck surgery since your cosmetic result will be compromised.

Can you lose weight after tummy tuck?

It is not recommended to lose much weight after tummy tuck. You will likely develop more loose skin of your abdomen and should achieve a stable and healthy body weight before surgery.

Do men get tummy tuck?

Men get tummy tucks, often after massive weight loss following bariatric surgery or through diet and exercise.

Do tummy tucks work?

Tummy tucks are effective in tightening the abdominal wall muscles and improving contour by removing excess skin and fatty tissue.

How can I lose my stomach fat?

There is no easy solution for losing stomach fat. Lifestyle modifications are required to achieve weight loss through diet and exercise. For some patients struggling with more serious obesity, bariatric surgery may be an option.

How dangerous is a tummy tuck?

Risks of tummy tuck will be discussed during your consultation. If surgery is considered dangerous based on your medical conditions, smoking status, or current body weight, it may not be recommended.

How do I prepare for a tummy tuck?

You may prepare for a tummy tuck by achieving a healthy and stable body weight. Delay surgery until you have no plans for further pregnancies. It is critical to quit smoking for at least one month before and after surgery to lower risk of complications.

How long is pain after tummy tuck?

Patients typically experience pain for a few days after a tummy tuck. Soreness may last for a few weeks and gradually improves over time. Wearing the binder may also reduce discomfort by bracing your abdomen.

How long will a tummy tuck last?

A tummy tuck will be permanent as long as you maintain a stable weight after surgery.

How many pounds can you lose with liposuction?

You will not lose much weight with liposuction, generally less than a pound or two. It is effective for contouring and not a method of weight loss.

How many sizes do you lose with a tummy tuck?

You will generally go down a size or two following tummy tuck surgery. Loose skin and fatty tissue is removed from the lower abdomen, which typically narrows the waistline.

What are the side effects of a tummy tuck?

There are side effects and risks of any surgery. Patients will typically experience discomfort, bruising, and swelling after tummy tuck, which gradually resolve. Risks of tummy tuck include bleeding, infection, seroma (fluid collection), failure of the rectus plication (muscle repair), asymmetry, scarring, delayed healing or skin loss, sensation changes, and blood clot formation (deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism).

What do you eat after tummy tuck?

It is recommended to start with fluids and light meals (e.g. crackers, soup) after tummy tuck and gradually advance your diet over the first few days.

What does a tummy tuck usually cost?

A tummy tuck is $10000 on average. Your surgical quote will outline all expenses (surgical, facility, anesthesia fees). Most patients also stay overnight at 199 Avenue Road for comfort and nursing care following tummy tuck surgery.

What is the best girdle to wear after a tummy tuck?

The best girdle to wear after a tummy tuck is a surgical grade binder. One will be provided to you following surgery.

Why would you need a tummy tuck?

You would need a tummy tuck if youre bothered by the appearance of loose abdominal skin and fatty tissue after achieving a healthy body weight. This is a common concern following pregnancies or massive weight loss. Many patients are also interested in tummy tuck surgery to restore core strength.

Will a tummy tuck make my stomach flat?

A tummy tuck will flatten your stomach but does not reduce the amount of fatty tissue within your abdomen (visceral fat). To achieve the best possible aesthetic outcome, it is recommended to achieve a healthy body weight before undergoing tummy tuck surgery.

When can I exercise after tummy tuck?

Exercise may be resumed 6 weeks post-operatively. This time frame will lower the risk of delayed bleeding given the large surface area that is operated on during tummy tuck. Although bleeding is controlled at time of surgery, delayed bleeding may occur during early healing if heart rate or blood pressure increase. The muscle repair also has little strength during early healing. Abdominal exercises, if performed during the early post-operative phase, may lead to breakdown at the muscle repair site. If the stitches break or pull through these fragile tissues, the rectus diastasis may recur.

When should I have a tummy tuck if considering more pregnancies?

Although tummy tuck is not a contraindication to future pregnancies, it is recommended to delay surgery until you have completed childbearing. If pregnancy occurred followed tummy tuck, revision surgery may be required in the future given that the muscle repair site would likely develop recurrent separation. Redundant skin and soft tissue may also recur following pregnancy. Waiting approximately 6 months following delivery is recommended to achieve a stable weight.

How long should my weight be stable before tummy tuck?

It is generally recommended to maintain a stable weight at healthy BMI for 3-6 months prior to abdominoplasty to increase the likelihood of achieving a stable and satisfactory aesthetic outcome.

What is the purpose of drains after tummy tuck?

Drains are generally used to lower the risk of developing a fluid collection (seroma) below the skin flap. Whether drains are necessary is an area of debate within the plastic surgery literature. Dr. Power generally inserts two drains following tummy tuck surgery which exit through the transverse abdominal incision. This avoids additional scars at the drain sites. Patients are instructed how to shower with the drains in place beginning the day after surgery. The drains are removed when they taper to a consistently low amount of drainage over a 24-hour period. This is generally within one week of surgery.

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