During your initial consultation, Dr. Shumway will listen to your concerns and goals before performing a physical exam. Then, he can help you decide the technique that will produce your best results. A full abdominoplasty is better if you would like to correct loose skin in both the lower and upper stomach, whereas a mini tummy tuck is effective for issues under your belly button, such as a “pooch.”

Although you may get pregnant following an abdominoplasty, it will likely affect your results. Dr. Shumway strongly encourages that you be finished building your family before you get an abdominoplasty. If you do become pregnant following your tummy tuck, another surgery may be done to refresh your stomach.

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at removing excess skin and fat from the abdominal area while tightening the abdominal muscles. This procedure can create a flatter, smoother, and more toned appearance in the stomach area, and is particularly beneficial for individuals who have loose skin after significant weight loss or pregnancy.
There are different types of tummy tucks, including a full tummy tuck, mini tummy tuck, and extended tummy tuck, which vary based on the amount of correction needed.

The ideal candidates for a tummy tuck are individuals who:
• Have loose or sagging skin in the abdominal area, often due to pregnancy, significant weight loss, or aging.
• Have good overall health and are free from serious medical conditions that could interfere with healing or anesthesia.
• Have realistic expectations: A tummy tuck can significantly improve the appearance of the abdomen, but it won’t be a substitute for healthy lifestyle habits.
• Are done with childbirth: If you’re planning on having more children, it’s recommended to wait until after your last pregnancy as the procedure can affect abdominal muscles and skin elasticity.
If you’re unsure if you’re a good candidate, it’s essential to consult with an experienced surgeon, like Dr. Shumway, to discuss your goals and options.

A tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia, and the procedure typically takes 2 to 5 hours, depending on the type of tummy tuck and individual needs. Here’s what happens:
• Incisions: Dr. Shumway makes an incision in the lower abdomen, often hidden within the bikini line, allowing them to remove excess skin and fat.
• Muscle tightening: In a full tummy tuck, Dr. Shumway tightens the abdominal muscles, which may have become stretched or weakened, especially after pregnancy.
• Excess skin removal: Dr. Shumway removes any loose or sagging skin and may also reposition the belly button if necessary.
• Closing incisions: Dr. Shumway will close the incisions with sutures and apply a dressing to protect the area during the healing process.
The procedure can be customized to meet your specific goals, whether you need only a minor correction or a more extensive transformation.

There are several variations of tummy tuck surgery, including:
• Full Tummy Tuck: This is the most common type and involves an incision that spans from hip to hip. It’s ideal for patients who have significant excess skin or muscle laxity.
• Mini Tummy Tuck: This type is less invasive and involves a smaller incision. It’s ideal for individuals with mild excess skin or fat confined to the lower abdomen, and it doesn’t involve tightening the upper abdominal muscles.
• Extended Tummy Tuck: This version is similar to a full tummy tuck but also addresses excess skin and fat around the flanks (sides of the torso), making it suitable for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight.
• Circumferential Tummy Tuck: Often done after weight loss surgery, this type of tummy tuck involves a larger incision around the waist, addressing excess skin on both the abdomen and lower back.
Dr. Shumway will recommend the best option based on your body and aesthetic goals.

The recovery process after a tummy tuck typically takes 6 weeks for most people, with the following milestones:
• Immediately after surgery: You’ll likely experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medications to help manage pain.
• First week: You may need to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and help your skin conform to its new contours. Most patients can return to work in about 2 weeks, depending on the nature of their job.
• 4 to 6 weeks: Swelling will start to subside, and you’ll be able to resume light exercise and activities. Strenuous activities should be avoided during this time.
• Full recovery: While the majority of swelling will resolve within a few weeks, it may take several months for your final results to fully take shape.
It’s important to follow Dr. Shumway’s post-operative care instructions, including wearing compression garments, taking prescribed medications, and avoiding certain movements to ensure the best healing process.

Yes, this surgery involves incisions, and as a result, a tummy tuck scar is inevitable. However, a skilled surgeon like Dr. Shumway will place the incisions strategically, usually along the lower abdomen within the bikini line, making the scars less visible.
The extent of scarring will depend on the type of tummy tuck performed:
• Full tummy tuck: The incision is longer, but it’s placed in a location that’s easily hidden by underwear or swimwear.
• Mini tummy tuck: The incision is shorter, typically only in the lower abdomen.
• Extended tummy tuck: Involves a longer incision that may extend to the sides of the torso.
While scars will fade over time, they won’t disappear completely. However, most patients feel the trade-off of a flatter, firmer abdomen is well worth the scarring.

The results of a tummy tuck are long-lasting, especially if you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. The procedure removes excess skin and tightens the abdominal muscles, so the improvement in your abdomen’s appearance should be permanent. However, factors such as pregnancy, significant weight fluctuations, and aging can affect the results over time.
To maintain the results, it’s essential to adopt a healthy diet and exercise routine and avoid significant weight changes.

Like any surgical procedure, tummy tuck surgery carries some risks. Common risks and complications include:
• Infection: Any surgery carries a risk of infection, but following proper care instructions can reduce this risk.
• Blood clots: Blood clots, especially in the legs (deep vein thrombosis), can occur after surgery, so you may be given compression devices to reduce this risk.
• Scarring: While scars are typically well-hidden, they can be more prominent in some individuals.
• Asymmetry: In some cases, there may be minor asymmetry in the results, which can often be corrected with follow-up treatments.
• Delayed healing: Some people may experience delayed wound healing, particularly if they smoke or have certain medical conditions.
Choosing a qualified, experienced surgeon and following all pre- and post-surgery instructions can significantly reduce the risk of complications.

The cost of tummy tuck surgery can vary widely depending on factors like the type of tummy tuck, the surgeon’s experience, the geographic location of the procedure, and any additional services provided (e.g., anesthesia, facility fees, post-op garments). On average, a tummy tuck can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $12,000 or more.
Keep in mind that tummy tuck surgery is considered cosmetic and is generally not covered by insurance. Many surgeons offer financing options to help make the procedure more affordable.

Yes, many patients choose to combine a tummy tuck with other procedures to achieve more comprehensive body contouring. Common combinations include:
• Liposuction: Often done alongside a tummy tuck to remove excess fat from the abdomen and love handles, enhancing the overall result.
• Breast lift or augmentation: Popular for women who have completed their families and want to enhance both their abdomen and breast areas.
• Mommy makeover: A combination of procedures (often including a tummy tuck, breast lift, and liposuction) designed to restore a woman’s pre-pregnancy body.
Dr. Shumway can help you decide the best combination of procedures based on your goals and needs.