Tummy Tuck, or abdominoplasty, is designed to firm and smooth the abdomen. This cosmetic procedure removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and may also tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. The result is a flatter, tighter abdominal profile. Tummy tucks are best-suited to men or women who are in good medical condition, but are troubled by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that don't respond to diet or exercise. Women who have experienced significant stretching of abdominal skin from multiple pregnancies will also benefit from a tummy tuck, as well as older patients who have lost skin elasticity.

Cost of Tummy Tuck (cost varies): $6,500

The average cost of Tummy Tuck surgery is $6,500. This includes your surgical fee and all follow-up visits with Dr. Rocheford. This estimate also includes the facility fee and anesthesia costs. This is an estimate and may be different depending on your specific situation. It does not include the cost of your pre-operative physical, lab tests or medications. Dr. Rocheford does charge $100 for consultations, and that fee is deducted from the price of your surgery or in-office procedure.
A tummy tuck can be mini or full depending on your particular situation. A mini-tuck has a shorter incision and removes less fat and skin than a full tummy tuck. You must be examined to determine which is right for you. DETAILS OF TUMMY TUCK SURGERY:
Surgery:	Surgery is done under general anesthetic at an outpatient facility or hospital.The surgery takes 2-3 hours and is an outpatient surgery.
Discomfort:	Moderate to severe. Anticipate 3 - 14 days of pain medication.
Bruising:	Does not usually occur.
Swelling:	Peaks at 3 days, improves in 2 - 4 weeks but may take 3 months to resolve.
Bandages:	Removed 2 - 4 days following surgery.
Stitches:	Internal stitches dissolve.
Drains:	Will be placed to prevent fluid collections called seromas. The tubes are plastic and are connected to small reservoirs the size of a lemon. You will need to empty them several times daily. Drains are removed between 2 and 3 weeks following surgery.
Support:	An abdominal binder will be placed on you at the time of surgery and should be worn for 2 weeks full time and the next 4 weeks during the day.
Work:	You may return to work when you are done taking prescription pain pills. This is usually in 1 - 2 weeks. If your job requires manual lifting or labor, wait 4-6 weeks.
Sun Exposure:	Protect from the sun with sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher for one year.
Exercise:	May be resumed in 2 weeks gently (walking). Weights and more vigorous exercise, 4 - 6 weeks.
Final Result:	Following scar maturation, about 1 year.

If you're ready to discuss your Tummy Tuck options, now is a great time to schedule your Tummy Tuck surgery consultation with Dr. Heather Rocheford at our plastic surgery offices, serving the Twin Cities Metro area including St. Paul, Minneapolis, Woodbury and beyond. Simply request a consultation online or call Rocheford Plastic Surgery at (651) 739-1100 today to schedule your appointment.

Tummy Tuck FAQs  Surgery Checklist

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