If you struggle with loose abdominal skin, extra fatty tissue, or weakened abdominal muscles, a tummy tuck in Atlanta might be the solution. Dr. Teri N. Moak offers personalized abdominoplasty surgeries to help you achieve a firmer, flatter midsection and boost your confidence in your appearance.
The impact of age, weight, and childbirth on your midsection
As you age, your skin naturally loses elasticity, and you may notice your abdominal skin becoming loose. Significant weight fluctuations can result in stubborn fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. Childbirth often stretches the abdominal muscles and skin, leading to a “pouching” effect. These factors combined can create a midsection appearance that many find challenging to improve through lifestyle changes alone, making procedures like tummy tucks a viable solution to regain a firmer, smoother abdominal contour.
What is a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that addresses loose abdominal skin, extra fatty tissue, and separated abdominal muscles. This surgery removes excess skin and fat and tightens the rectus abdominis muscle. Small hernias can also be repaired during a tummy tuck. Ideal for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, pregnancy, or signs of aging, a tummy tuck in Atlanta can help you achieve a firmer, flatter midsection. It enhances the abdominal contour, improves self-esteem, and restores balance to your figure.
You may be a candidate for a tummy tuck if:
- You want to improve the shape of your midsection
- You have loose skin around your abdomen
- You wish to enhance the contour of your abdomen, hips, and waist
- You want to achieve optimal proportions for your figure
- You are in generally good physical and mental health
- You are a nonsmoker or willing to stop smoking before surgery
- You have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the procedure
- You feel self-conscious about the appearance of your abdomen
- You have a stable weight and are not planning a significant weight loss
- You have completed your family and do not plan future pregnancies
A tummy tuck can treat the following:
- Loose abdominal skin
- Extra fatty tissue on the abdomen, hips, and waist
- Separated rectus abdominis muscles (rectus diastasis)
- Abdominal wall hernias
- Stubborn fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise
- Pouching of the abdomen after pregnancy or weight loss
- Lack of abdominal muscle tone and firmness
What are the available tummy tuck techniques?
Mini tummy tuck
A mini tummy tuck in Atlanta is ideal for those with minimal excess skin and fat below the navel. Dr. Moak makes a small horizontal incision above the pubic area. She then removes the excess skin and tightens the lower abdominal muscles. This technique focuses on the lower abdomen, making it less invasive with a shorter recovery time compared to a full tummy tuck. It’s perfect for patients who need minor corrections and desire a quicker recovery.
Full tummy tuck
A full tummy tuck, or traditional abdominoplasty, addresses both the upper and lower abdomen. Dr. Moak makes a horizontal incision between the hipbones and may also create a second incision around the navel to reposition it. This procedure removes excess skin, tightens the entire abdominal wall, and eliminates fat deposits. The full tummy tuck is suitable for those with significant skin laxity and muscle separation due to factors like pregnancy or weight loss.
Extended tummy tuck
An extended tummy tuck in Atlanta goes beyond the traditional technique by addressing the abdomen, hips, and flanks. Dr. Moak makes a longer incision that extends beyond the hips to remove a larger amount of excess skin and fat. This procedure is ideal for patients who have experienced larger volume weight loss or have skin laxity extending toward the hips. It enhances the overall shape of the waistline and improves the proportion of the entire torso.
What happens during your tummy tuck procedure?
During your tummy tuck, an Anesthesiologist administers general anesthesia and Dr. Moak will make a horizontal incision between your hip bones, just above the pubic area. If needed, a second incision around your navel will be made to address upper abdominal skin. Dr. Moak will then remove excess skin, tighten the rectus abdominis muscles, and eliminate extra fat. Any hernias will also be repaired. Finally, she will close the incisions with sutures and place dressings and a compression garment to support your new abdominal contour.
What is the recovery following a tummy tuck?
Following your tummy tuck, you should plan to take it easy and rest. You’ll be up and walking the day after surgery, though you will feel sore for several days. Most daily activities can resume within one to two weeks, but strenuous activities should be avoided for about three weeks. You’ll wear an abdominal compression garment for six weeks to support healing. The incisions will gradually fade over time, and the final results of your tummy tuck in Atlanta are typically seen within six to eight weeks.
Tummy tuck FAQs
What if I want to have a child in the future?
If you plan to have children in the future, it’s important to discuss this with your surgeon. Pregnancy can significantly change the size and shape of your body, potentially affecting the results of your tummy tuck. Dr. Moak may recommend waiting until you are finished having children before undergoing the procedure to ensure long-lasting results.
Should I lose weight first?
If you plan to lose a significant amount of weight, inform your surgeon. It’s often advised to reach a stable weight before undergoing a tummy tuck in Atlanta, as significant weight fluctuations can impact the results. Being at your target weight can help you achieve the best possible contour and ensure the longevity of your results.
Is liposuction useful during abdominoplasty?
Absolutely! Liposuction is often included in a tummy tuck procedure to enhance the contour of the waist and remove stubborn fat deposits. This combination helps achieve a smoother, more sculpted appearance.
Be beautiful, thoughtfully
Dr. Teri N. Moak is dedicated to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals with care and precision. She combines her expertise in plastic surgery with a genuine passion for enhancing natural beauty. Dr. Moak’s thoughtful approach ensures personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and desires. If you’re considering a tummy tuck to improve your midsection and boost your confidence, schedule your consultation with Dr. Moak today.
