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Frequent Questions About Tummy Tuck Connecticut (Abdominoplasty)

Frequent Questions

Below you will find a list of frequent questions about Tummy Tuck with answers provided by Connecticut Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Singer. If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, please write to info@implasticsurgery.com, be sure to include the procedure name and your question!

How is this procedure done?

At Imperial Plastic Surgery in Westport, Connecticut, complete Abdominoplasty is performed for those requiring maximum correction. A horizontal incision is made low on the abdomen at the level of the pubic hair. Excess skin and tissue is removed. Any hernias or weaknesses are repaired and the abdominal musculature is tightened with stitches. The belly button (umbilicus) is left in the same position on the abdominal wall but is brought out through a new skin opening.

Modified or mini-Abdominoplasty is a more limited procedure appropriate for individuals requiring lesser corrections. There is no scar around the belly button (umbilicus) and other scars are usually shorter. Your surgeon will determine the appropriate procedure at the time of your preoperative consultation. In some cases, mini-Abdominoplsties may be performed with an endoscope, or mini-camera, attached to the surgical instrument to further reduce the size of the incisions.

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How do I prepare for this procedure?

During your initial preoperative visit with your surgeon at our Connecticut medical offices, be prepared to give a complete medical history including all your medications, allergies and previous surgeries. You will undergo a thorough physical examination and blood tests. If you are over age 50, an electrocardiogram may be taken. Photographs are important aids in planning and performing your Tummy Tuck. They become a permanent part of your patient record and are taken before and several months after your procedure.

During your consultation, you will be given specific directions to help you prepare for your procedure. Instructions generally include taking vitamins, cautions about taking certain medication and drinking alcohol, the shaving process and use of antibacterial soap. You must not eat or drink anything eight hours before your procedure. If you take daily medication, ask your surgeon if it is safe to take before your procedure. If you have any sores on your body, if you have a cold, sore throat or allergic condition, inform your surgeon so you may be examined prior to your procedure.

If you smoke, the likelihood of healing problems and other complications increases. Smokers must stop smoking completely at least two weeks prior to and two weeks after surgery. "Cutting down" is not enough. Complete cessation of smoking is mandatory.

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How long does the procedure take?

At our Westport, Connecticut, surgery facilities, operating time is generally two to three hours depending on the scope of your specific situation.

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What form of anesthesia is used?

You will require general anesthesia, given by an expert anesthesiologist M.D. (medical doctor). This will allow you to "sleep" throughout the entire procedure.

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Can I return home the same day?

Generally not. A complete Abdominoplasty requires an overnight stay. However, a modified or mini-Abdominoplasty can be done as an outpatient. In either case, it is necessary that you have someone pick you up after the procedure, take you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours.

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How long before I can return to normal activity?

Most people return to their usual activities within two weeks after the procedure. Strenuous sports and high levels of intense physical activity, however, are prohibited for six to eight weeks. Be sure to check with your surgeon.

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Click here to request a certificate for $100 off any Medical Spa package and a chance to discuss Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) with our Board Certified Connecticut Plastic Surgeon at our Westport medical offices.