What is the Maximum Amount of Skin Removed in Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Despite proactive steps to diet and exercise, some adults are still left with undesirable pockets of skin and fat around the abdomen for all sorts of reasons, including age, childbirth, and drastic weight loss. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Terrence “Terry” Higgins of Plastic Surgery Vegas works with patients across the Las Vegas area to provide tummy tuck results that are youthful and attractive. Although Dr. Higgins performs procedures for the face, breasts, and body, he is particularly known for his renowned body contouring work, which includes quality tummy tuck procedures.

Who qualifies for a tummy tuck?

Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck procedure may be men or women who find themselves in any of the following positions:

• Are past childbearing years

• Are at a stable weight

• Want to tighten loose skin

• Desire a slimmer appearance

• Are displeased with excess skin or fat in the abdominal region

Dr. Higgins performs thorough initial assessments and can help patients, based on their goals and personal/medical history, determine if a tummy tuck is the right path to pursue.

How does a tummy tuck work?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is an invasive surgery used to reshape the abdomen. Patients are placed under general anesthesia, and depending on the selected tummy tuck procedure, a certain amount of excess skin (excision) and fat (liposuction) are removed to contour the abdomen for attractive results.

Are there different types of tummy tuck surgeries?

Dr. Higgins performs three types of tummy tuck procedures in Las Vegas, NV:

• Full: used to correct problems in both the upper and lower abdomen

• Mini: used to address the “pooch” or issues of just the lower abdomen

• Extended: used to improve issues in the abdomen, hips, and thighs

At Plastic Surgery Vegas, Dr. Higgins will recommend one of these three tummy tuck procedures based on your personal goals and the results of a detailed physical exam.

What is the maximum amount of skin removed from a tummy tuck?

The amount of skin removed varies depending on the tummy tuck procedure. The surgery involves a combination of skin and fat removal to contour the abdomen into a healthier, more attractive shape. Dr. Higgins will make professional recommendations for how much skin removal is safe and necessary to produce the patient’s desired abdominal outcomes.

What is recovery like after a tummy tuck?

Once the surgery is completed, patients are monitored and released with an abdominal compression garment to reduce swelling. Expect to rest for a few days after surgery. Patients have some difficulty with walking and standing for several days after the operation. Normal daily activities can be resumed after two weeks, while exercise or workout activities can resume after eight weeks or when approved by our team.

Will there be scarring?

Since an abdominoplasty is an invasive surgery, patients can expect some scarring. The extent of scarring will depend on the tummy tuck procedure. Dr. Higgins uses surgical techniques that produce thin and minimal scars that can be hidden by clothing, including underwear and swimsuits. Along with recovery instructions, our team sends patients home with a scarring care plan to help blend the incisions into the surrounding natural skin during the healing process.

How to get started for a tummy tuck procedure

If you are frustrated with sagging skin and extraneous fat pockets in the abdominal region and are looking for a tightened, attractive figure, contact Dr. Terry Higgins at Plastic Surgery Vegas in Las Vegas, NV to schedule a consultation today.