Tummy Tuck

Conveniently located to serve the areas of New Jersey

Tummy Tuck New Jersey, NY

find out everything you need to know about your tummy tuck options.

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tighten the underlying muscles to create a flatter, smoother, and more toned appearance. The procedure is often sought by individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or pregnancy and are left with loose, sagging skin and weakened abdominal muscles that do not respond to diet and exercise.

The tummy tuck procedure involves several steps:

  • Anesthesia: The patient is given general anesthesia to ensure their comfort throughout the procedure.
  • Incision: Dr. Gartner will make an incision in the lower abdomen, typically above the pubic area, where the excess skin and fat will be removed.
  • Tissue removal: The excess skin and fat are removed, and the underlying muscles are tightened to create a flatter, smoother abdominal contour.
  • Skin repositioning: The remaining skin is pulled down and repositioned, and a new belly button is created.
  • Closure: Dr. Gartner will close the incision with sutures and dressings.

Dr. Gartner is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in tummy tuck procedures and can help patients achieve their desired results through this transformative surgery.

Before and After Photos

Tummy Tuck Before & After Patient #1861
Tummy Tuck Before & After Patient #1861
Tummy Tuck Before & After Patient #1860
Tummy Tuck Before & After Patient #1860
Tummy Tuck Before & After Patient #1859
Tummy Tuck Before & After Patient #1859
View More Photos

Benefits

The benefits of a tummy tuck include a smoother, flatter, and more toned appearance in the abdominal area. This can help improve overall body confidence and self-esteem, as well as make it easier to fit into clothing and feel more comfortable in your own skin. Additionally, tummy tucks can help improve posture and alleviate back pain caused by weakened abdominal muscles.

Dr. Gartner’s expertise and experience in tummy tuck procedures ensure that patients receive the highest quality care and achieve the best possible results.

Ideal Candidate

Abdominoplasty can achieve a dramatic improvement in your body contour, giving you a leaner, smoother silhouette that you’ll feel better about. The procedure is suitable for men and women who are the following:

  • Healthy
  • Realistic in their expectations of the surgical outcome
  • At a healthy and stable weight
  • Unhappy with their mid-section due to excess fat, skin, and separated abdominal muscles
  • Not pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Able to follow the pre and post-surgical care instructions outlined by Dr. Gartner
  • A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a procedure in which skin and fat are removed from your abdomen, and the abdominal wall muscles are tightened to correct any separation.

the Gartner Plastic Surgery and Laser Center offers a carefully curated selection of aesthetic treatments to suit every need. we invite you to book a consultation and find out which of our facial peel options are best suited to your needs.

Recovery

You will be affected by swelling, bruising, numbness, and discomfort in the first few days after your surgery. These side effects will subside as the weeks pass. If one or two drains were placed, they would be removed in a few days.

HOW YOU’LL LOOK WHILE YOU RECOVER

At first, you may look worse than you did before surgery. This is because swelling and bruising will hide your new shape. Make sure to wear your compression garment as advised, as it will help ease swelling. You may also feel tight and be unable to stand straight up. This tightness will gradually subside as your tissues relax.

KEEPING CLEAN

You’ll be able to take a shower the day after your surgery. Remember to use a mild soap and avoid touching the incisions.

In a couple of weeks, the steri-strips covering your incisions will slowly start curling at the edges and finally fall off. At that time, your incisions will probably be strong enough to start applying a topical scar treatment, such as silicone sheeting. This can help improve the appearance of your scars.

WHEN YOU CAN GO BACK TO WORK

You can return to sedentary work within a week or two. Physically demanding jobs may require waiting a month or two.

WHEN YOU CAN GET BACK TO THE GYM

You can start working out again in about three weeks. However, you should wait at least six weeks before you start weightlifting.

YOUR RESULTS

You’ll enjoy a more flatter and firmer mid-section. The love handles or a muffin top that you once had before the surgery will be gone, allowing you to wear form-fitting clothing that shows off your new shape.

YOUR CONSULTATION

Your private medical consultation with Dr. Gartner is the perfect time to talk about your aesthetic goals. You should be honest, as this will help Dr. Gartner better understand what you want to achieve. The tummy tuck procedure will be discussed, as well as any other options that would be able to achieve your results.

To make sure the surgery is safe for you, your medical history and condition will also be reviewed by Dr. Gartner. He’ll go over all of the side effects and risks related to your surgery so that you can then determine if you’d like to proceed.

Your Surgery

  • It’s important to follow Dr. Gartner’s instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. You’ll have an easier and faster recovery if you do.
  • Stop smoking at least four weeks before your surgery.
  • Maintain your stable and healthy weight with a sensible diet and exercise regimen.
  • Reduce the amount of sodium you consume. This is to reduce the rate of swelling and bloating you’ll experience after surgery.
  • Stop taking any medications that thin the blood, such as Aspirin and Ibuprofen.
  • Start taking any vitamins that could help improve your recovery rate, such as those containing vitamin C and iron.
  • Don’t eat or drink anything at least eight hours before your surgery.

CUSTOMIZE SURGICAL TECHNIQUES TO SAFELY ACHIEVE YOUR AESTHETIC GOALS:

  • This is a general outline of what you can expect during your surgery.
  • General anesthesia is administered.
  • An incision is made in the pre-marked location. A second incision is made to free the navel from the surrounding tissue.
  • The skin is carefully lifted up to the ribs and the muscles of the abdominal wall are tightened if necessary.
  • Excess skin and fat are removed by excision.
  • Liposuction is performed to remove excess fat deposits.
  • The navel is positioned and sutured in place.
  • The lower incision is closed in multiple layers, creating a finer scar.
  • The incisions are dressed and a drain (or two) is inserted to reduce the risk of seroma or hematoma.

Your surgery will be performed at our state-of-the-art surgical facility. Our facility is fully accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF). AAAASF medicare certification is considered the gold standard in accreditation and one of the highest certifications any ambulatory center can obtain in the country.

Consult Dr. Gartner

Expectations

YOU CAN EXPECT

Give you a smoother, flatter stomach.

Correct diastasis recti, the separation of your abdominal muscles which can make your stomach protrude more.

YOU’LL EXPERIENCE

Tummy Tuck New Jersey, NY

Liposuction is performed during your surgery to enhance your results and shorten your recovery. Reshaping of your waist and back, which can be targeted at the same time for better results. A scar that is as short as possible and placed correctly to remain hidden by your clothing. The ability to get back to work within two weeks or so. *Your belly button may look natural and aesthetically improve.

The freedom to wear clothes that fit you better. No more love handles, muffin top, or looking like you’re still pregnant. A boost in your self-esteem and confidence levels.

WHAT CAN A TUMMY TUCK IN NEW JERSEY DO FOR YOU?

Dr. Michael Gartner frequently treats clients who’ve tried every healthy, natural way to get in shape. When the abdomen doesn’t cooperate with your hard work due to skin laxity, expanded abdominal muscles or stubborn fat deposits, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) can be the answer. While many people choose to restore the belly after childbearing with this cosmetic surgery, you don’t need to be a mom, or female, to benefit from it. Here’s what a New Jersey tummy tuck can do:

TIGHTEN SKIN AFTER SIGNIFICANT WEIGHT LOSS

Those who shed significant body fat often have excess skin to show for it. Though your skin has amazing regenerative properties, it can’t return to its original tone after prolonged stretching. The tummy tuck procedure removes excess skin to create a smoother, tighter abdominal surface.

REPAIR DIASTASIS RECTUS

Another issue faced most commonly by women after childbirth is the permanent separation of vertical abdominal muscles. Some people find that their belly protrudes no matter how intensely they work and target their abs. While not considered to be a medical necessity, the drawing together and tightening of these muscles can help to restore strength and tone to the midsection and core.

IMPROVE THE LOOK OF YOUR NAVEL

A full/standard tummy tuck in New Jersey will allow for the reconstruction of the umbilicus.

IMPROVE THE FIT OF CLOTHING

Many New Jersey tummy tuck patients report that their clothes fit better after their procedure. Removing excess skin- even without fat reduction- can significantly improve one’s shape and slim the waist. Another benefit is that when athletic clothes fit well, people feel more confident hitting the gym.

WHAT SHOULD YOU EXPECT FROM YOUR TUMMY TUCK?

You should expect a significant incision from your abdominoplasty. While that’s usually considered the main drawback, experienced plastic surgeons place the incision expertly low and well-hidden. The scar can be faint and thin, plus you’ll receive instructions to help make it as discrete as possible. Expect permanent internal sutures if you have a diastasis repair. These cannot be felt from the outside typically, but they ensure a lasting, durable repair.

EXPECT SOME BRUISING AND SWELLING

most tummy tuck patients take an average of 2 weeks off work. The first 14 days see the majority of inflammation subside, but you’ll need to take time off regular activities to rest and heal. Likewise, you can expect your incisions to close by 2 to 3 weeks after the procedure. In the meantime, you’ll need to keep them clean and protected, avoiding swimming, hot tubs, and other sources of infection. Expect to see your new shape revealed between 2 to 4 months after surgery. Expect scars to mature and fade throughout the first 12 months after abdominoplasty.

COMPLICATIONS AND RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH A TUMMY TUCK

Infection, Seroma, and hematoma, Wound separation, Blood clots,  Necrosis, Lasting discomfort, and pain, Under or over-correction, Dissatisfactory results.

FAQs

HOW DOES A TUMMY TUCK DIFFER FROM LIPOSUCTION?

While both procedures address the abdominal area, liposuction focuses on removing excess fat deposits, whereas a tummy tuck primarily targets excess skin and tightens the abdominal muscles. In some cases, a tummy tuck may be combined with liposuction to achieve optimal results.

CAN A TUMMY TUCK HELP WITH LOOSE SKIN AND STRETCH MARKS ON THE ABDOMEN?

Yes, a tummy tuck can help address loose skin and stretch marks on the abdomen. During the procedure, excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is tightened to create a smoother and firmer abdominal contour. While stretch marks located on the excised skin will be removed, those above the belly button may be repositioned to a lower position.

HOW LONG IS THE RECOVERY PERIOD AFTER A TUMMY TUCK?

The recovery period after a tummy tuck can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing capabilities. Generally, patients can expect a recovery period of several weeks. It is common to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication and proper post-operative care. Dr. Gartner will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for yourself during the recovery period.

WILL THERE BE VISIBLE SCARS AFTER A TUMMY TUCK, AND HOW CAN THEY BE MINIMIZED?

Yes, there will be scars after a tummy tuck. The incisions are typically made along the bikini line and can extend from hip to hip. However, Dr. Gartner will take great care to place the incisions strategically, where they can be concealed by underwear or swimwear. With proper scar care techniques, such as keeping the incision sites clean, using silicone sheets, and avoiding sun exposure, the scars can fade and become less noticeable over time.

CAN A TUMMY TUCK ADDRESS DIASTASIS RECTI (SEPARATION OF ABDOMINAL MUSCLES)?

Yes, a tummy tuck can address diastasis recti, which is a separation of the abdominal muscles that commonly occurs after pregnancy or significant weight loss. During a tummy tuck, the muscles are tightened and sutured together, restoring the strength and tone of the abdominal wall.

CAN I UNDERGO A TUMMY TUCK IF I PLAN TO HAVE MORE CHILDREN IN THE FUTURE?

It is generally recommended to postpone a tummy tuck until after you have completed your family, as future pregnancies can affect the results of the procedure. Pregnancy and childbirth can cause the abdominal muscles to stretch and the skin to stretch again, potentially reversing the effects of a tummy tuck. However, if you do become pregnant after a tummy tuck, a revision surgery may be possible to restore your abdominal contour.

HOW LONG DO THE RESULTS OF A TUMMY TUCK TYPICALLY LAST?

The results of a tummy tuck can be long-lasting if you maintain a stable weight and lead a healthy lifestyle. However, it is important to keep in mind that natural aging and lifestyle factors can still affect your appearance over time. By maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise routine, and avoiding significant weight fluctuations, you can help prolong the results of your tummy tuck.

HOW CAN I PREPARE FOR A TUMMY TUCK SURGERY?

Preparing for a tummy tuck surgery involves following your Dr. Gartner’s pre-operative instructions. This may include quitting smoking, adjusting medications, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Your surgeon may also advise you to have a support system in place for your recovery period and make arrangements for someone to assist you during the initial stages of healing.

CAN I COMBINE A TUMMY TUCK WITH OTHER PROCEDURES, SUCH AS LIPOSUCTION OR BREAST AUGMENTATION?

Yes, it is possible to combine a tummy tuck with other procedures to achieve comprehensive body contouring results. Many patients opt to combine a tummy tuck with liposuction to remove excess fat from other areas of the body. Additionally, some individuals may choose to undergo a tummy tuck in conjunction with breast augmentation or breast lift to address multiple areas of concern. Your plastic surgeon will discuss the possibilities and recommend the best combination of procedures based on your specific goals.

HOW SOON AFTER A TUMMY TUCK CAN I RESUME REGULAR EXERCISE AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES?

The timing for resuming regular exercise and physical activities after a tummy tuck will vary based on your individual healing progress. Dr. Gartner will provide specific guidelines on when it is safe to gradually reintroduce exercise and physical activities. It is essential to follow these guidelines to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.

WILL INSURANCE COVER ANY PART OF THE COST FOR A TUMMY TUCK?

In most cases, tummy tuck procedures are considered elective cosmetic surgeries and are not covered by insurance. However, there may be exceptions in situations where the procedure is performed for medical reasons, such as correcting a hernia or abdominal muscle separation. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options and any possible exceptions.