Wondering if tummy tuck surgery is right for you?

If your body hasn’t followed you well into middle age, you might feel like something’s missing. Most people find themselves looking in the mirror at midlife and feeling like their tummies tighten when they sit down, their skin isn’t as firm or nice, and gravity has caused some sagging.

Having a tummy tuck surgery can help you turn back the clock and find your confidence again. How much is tummy tuck surgery, you ask? Let’s take a look.

What Is the Average Cost of Tummy Tuck Surgery?

The average cost of tummy tuck surgery in 2023 is estimated to be around $7,000 – $12,000. This cost can vary widely based on a number of factors such as:

• the extent of the procedure
• the geographic location
• the experience and reputation of the surgeon
• the type of anesthesia used

If a patient needs a more complex or extensive tummy tuck, such as the correction of hernias or tightening of the abdominal musculature, then the total cost can easily exceed these numbers.

It is important to talk to several board-certified plastic surgeons to get a better understanding of the costs associated with the surgery. During the consultation, make sure to ask the surgeon about financing options that may be available.

What Are the Things Included in a Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Have you ever considered getting tummy tuck surgery? It was one of the most popular procedures performed last year. However, it is more than just taking on some skin removal.

Deciding to get one of the most popular body reshaping procedures can be scary, especially if you are not sure of what is included. When you look into tummy tuck surgery and see prices, it can seem cheap, but there is much more to it than that.

Read on to learn what things are included in a tummy tuck:

Anesthesia

A tummy tuck surgery requires the use of anesthesia, and it is an essential part of any successful surgery. Generally, anesthesia is administered in three distinct steps prior to surgery:

• pre-operative intoxication
• induction
• maintenance

Pre-operative intoxication is the process of reducing awareness and managing the depth of sedation before the start of the surgery. This is typically done by administering either intravenous sedation or intramuscular sedation.

During induction, the anesthesiologist introduces a general anesthetic to the patient, which results in a loss of consciousness and complete muscle paralysis. Following this, maintenance is used to control pain and keep the patient asleep before they wake up at the end of the procedure.

Incision

During the procedure, a surgeon makes several incisions as the first step. The exact length and location of the incisions vary based on the procedure being performed. Generally, there are three incisions included in a tummy tuck:

• one horizontal incision along the pubic area
• one similar horizontal incision along the hip area
• one lateral incision extending from one hip to the other

These incisions will be used to access the tissues and muscles beneath the skin, as well as allow the surgeon to properly suture and close the abdominal area. The incision may also include removal of excess skin if required.

Excision

This step includes removing excess skin and fat around the stomach area, as well as tightening the abdominal muscles. Excision starts with the patient being put under general anesthesia. Then a horizontal incision is made just above the pelvic region.

Excess skin and fat are removed, stretched, and tightened, and the abdominal muscles are surgically corrected. After this excision has been completed, a second incision is made from hip to hip. The navel may also be reset to match the new contours of the abdomen.

Drainage

Drainage is an important step included in the surgery as it helps to prevent post-operative complications such as infection. During the procedure, the abdominal muscles are tightened, and the excess fat, skin, and tissue are removed.

To help drain away the excess fluids caused by the surgery, the surgeon inserts temporary drainage tubes near the incision. The drain tubes help to reduce the pressure placed on the incision, which helps to promote quicker healing.

After the surgery, the patient should be monitored closely in order to ensure the drains are working properly and no fluid buildup is present.

Regular drain maintenance is an important part of the tummy tuck process, and if any drainage irregularities are noticed, a doctor should be consulted right away.

Closing the Incision

A tummy tuck surgery closing the incision is an important part of the process that requires precision and care. First, the doctor will need to remove any sutures and drains that were placed during the initial surgery.

Then, the doctor will wash the area using an antiseptic solution and gently dry it. After that, the doctor will begin to stitch the skin together using a special absorbable suture to minimize scarring.

Depending upon the incision size, the doctor may place one or two layers of stitches. The surgeon will then cover the incised area with a bandage or surgical tape to keep it secure and out of harm’s way.

Once the incision is closed, the doctor will observe the area for a few days to ensure that it is healing correctly. After that, the patient can typically resume normal activities.

How to Hire a Tummy Tuck Surgeon?

When looking to hire abdominoplasty surgeons, there are several key steps to take to ensure you have the best experience possible. First, you should consult with your primary care physician to get a referral to a qualified and experienced surgeon in your area.

Doing your research online can be helpful as well. Be sure to look through the following:

• online reviews
• patient experiences
• any certifications the surgeon may have

It’s also important to check the professional credentials of the surgeon before agreeing to any procedures. Additionally, make sure you’re aware of the cost associated with the surgery and any potential side effects before going through with it.

When meeting with the surgeon, ask as many questions as possible to feel confident about the procedure and get a thorough understanding of the risks associated.

Learning How Much Is Tummy Tuck Surgery

In 2023, the cost of tummy tuck surgery can vary based on multiple factors, such as the type of procedure, the expertise and experience of the surgeon, and the location.

To find the best cost and care, be sure to consult with a trusted surgeon in your area for personalized pricing. Schedule a consultation today and learn how much is tummy tuck surgery.

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