The Tummy Tuck Procedure
Surgical Details
An abdominoplasty removes excess fat and skin, restores muscles that have weakened or separated, and achieves an overall smoother, firmer stomach. Because a tummy tuck can remove excess skin and tighten stomach muscles, the procedure can offer a result that is close to your pre-pregnancy or pre-weight gain body shape. A tummy tuck is frequently performed in combination with liposuction — especially around the sides of the stomach, hips, and thighs — to give additional contouring.
The Full Tummy Tuck
A traditional (full) tummy tuck is suitable for both men and women who have a moderate amount of excess skin in their midsection. It is commonly performed on women post-pregnancy. During this surgery, the incision extends from hipbone to hipbone, which grants the surgeon access to a greater portion of the internal structures. Liposuction is used to remove fat and the abdominal muscles are pulled and tightly secured. The belly button is usually repositioned for natural placement.
The Mini Tummy Tuck
Individuals who are in relatively good shape but desire a flatter tummy may be good candidates for a mini tummy tuck (known as a “Brazilian tummy tuck”). These patients have loose abdominal fascia, but the muscles aren’t stretched to the point where a full tummy tuck is necessary. During surgery, a smaller incision is made along the lower abdomen, liposuction is used to remove excess fat, and the remaining skin is pulled tight. The belly button is not affected by this surgery.
The Extended Tummy Tuck
The extended tummy tuck is reserved for patients who require major skin tightening and body contouring following a major weight loss. The extended tummy tuck requires a longer incision that extends beyond the hips, as well as another one around the navel. Liposuction is used and the excess skin is trimmed away and tightened. The belly button is repositioned during this surgery.
Abdominoplasty Surgery
Details, Recovery, and Results
A tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility and typically takes around two hours to complete. It is considered an outpatient procedure.
After surgery, patients will wear a compression garment and will need to rest for the first 48 hours. They should make a concerted effort to move around in order to help promote blood circulation, but should only attempt to initially stand at a 45-degree angle to protect the incision. Pain medication will be provided to help with post-operative pain. Clearance to resume exercise is usually given around 4-6 weeks.
Unfortunately, scarring is a part of an abdominoplasty. However, every effort is made to minimize scarring, and the incisions are generally placed in locations easily concealed by undergarments. For women who have had a previous C-section, the original C-section scar will be replaced with the tummy tuck incision. Most patients feel the physical results of this surgery far outweigh any scarring left behind.
Why Choose PVPS for a Tummy Tuck in Jacksonville?
Founded in 1993, Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery offers surgical and non-surgical treatments in Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra Beach, and Fernandina Beach. Over the past 29 years, we’ve grown to multiple locations with five board-certified plastic surgeons and a team of specialists covering Northeast Florida.
Recognized nationally and awarded among America’s Best Plastic Surgeons, PVPS is distinguished by its expertise and patient-focused approach. Our surgeons are members of leading professional organizations, upholding the highest industry standards. We will offer personalized and compassionate care for your tummy tuck, backed by a team dedicated to excellence.
Learn MoreTummy Tuck Reviews
In April I made a huge change. Something I wanted not only physically but needed mentally. I met Dr Hancock and felt understood and she was the woman to make this dream happen! I had an abdominal muscle repair, tummy tuck with a monsplasty. I am so happy even 5 months post op! Nurse Lindsay was amazing as well they both made me feel so comfortable leading up to the day and even now months after. The recovery nurses were amazing and encouraging and were there for all my questions. I have personally had another experience at another surgical company and the way that I was treated at this one was as if I was family. They are available for any questions or concerns that I have through my recovery time. I recommend Dr. Hancock to anyone and everyone I know. She is patient, knowledgeable, and is a master with stitching! There are parts my scar where you cannot tell, I even had surgery. And again, I’m five months out! Thank you, Dr. Hancock for taking such good care of me and I will be using you for all future procedures!
I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Sternberg. Once we started talking I knew I made the right choice in picking him. He made me feel incredibly comfortable. Especially about things I’m self conscious about. I went into the consult with 3 surgeries in mind. He was honest about what he thought I needed and surgeries I did not need. . He was candid, explained both procedures, recovery time, what results would be. Lisa (his nurse) who I met for pre op and was with me the morning of my procedure was wonderful. Surgery day went smooth well! Everyone on the operating team was kind and answered any questions I had. Ultimately I went with abdominal/hip liposuction over a tummy tuck. I could not be happier and I’m only 4 weeks post op.
In April I made a huge change. Something I wanted not only physically but needed mentally.I met Dr Hancock and felt understood and she was the woman to make this dream happen!I had an abdominal muscle repair, tummy tuck with a monsplasty. I am so happy even 5 months post op!Nurse Lindsay was amazing as well they both made me feel so comfortable leading up to the day and even now months after.The recovery nurses were amazing and encouraging and were there for all my questions.I have personally had another experience at another surgical company and the way that I was treated at this one was as if I was family. They are available for any questions or concerns that I have through my recovery time.I recommend Dr. Hancock to anyone and everyone I know. She is patient, knowledgeable, and is a master with stitching! There are parts my scar where you cannot tell, I even had surgery. And again, I’m five months out!Thank you, Dr. Hancock for taking such good care of me and I will be using you for all future procedures!
Entire team at PVPS are kind, caring and professional. I had an abdominoplasty with Dr. Sternberg and I am so happy with my results and I am only a week and a half post op, healing well and no complications. The nursing staff is wonderful and I had the best experience. My husband and I saved for a whole year for me to be able to have this surgery to fix a diastasis recti after having twins so I didn’t feel like I was their “typical” clientele going into it but I was very wrong, they are just great.
I recently got a tummy tuck done with Dr. Sternberg and could not be more happy with the results!!After reading reviews at other places, I went with him due to his stellar record, and he did not disappoint! ❤️I saw very mixed reviews at other clinics.. For a major surgery, it is worth saving up and getting it done right. I am thrilled with my results, he does amazing bellybuttons!I would recommend Dr. Sternberg to anyone. He is extremely competent, thoughtful, and kind!I will add photos when I’m farther out to show results :)
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Total Reviews
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get a tummy tuck or liposuction?
Patients who have loose skin in the lower abdomen may be better candidates for a skin tightening procedure such as a tummy tuck. If a patient is battling unwanted belly fat, but otherwise has good skin tone, liposuction (which removes fat only) may be all that is needed.
Should I get combination surgery?
Abdominoplasty can be combined with another cosmetic procedure, such as breast augmentation, a breast lift, or liposuction that targets another area of the body. This is sometimes referred to as a “Mommy Makeover” and is considered a common practice, especially where pregnancy, weight gain and breastfeeding are concerned.
Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?
For optimal results, it is recommended that patients wait to have abdominoplasty until after all pregnancies have been completed. This is to ensure the stretching and weight gain that occurs with pregnancy does not compromise the results of the surgery.
How long does it take to recover from a tummy tuck?
Recovery from a tummy tuck can take several weeks. Most patients return to light activities within 2-3 weeks, but it can take up to 6-8 weeks to fully resume strenuous activities. We recommend wearing compression garments and following post-surgery instructions to ensure optimal healing.
Will a tummy tuck remove stretch marks?
A tummy tuck may remove some stretch marks, especially those located on the lower abdomen below the belly button. However, it will not eliminate all stretch marks, particularly if they are located on areas that are not being excised during the procedure.
Can a tummy tuck be combined with other procedures?
Yes, a tummy tuck is often combined with procedures like liposuction, breast lifts, or even a full mommy makeover. Combining surgeries can provide comprehensive results and may reduce overall recovery time compared to multiple surgeries performed separately.
Is a tummy tuck a weight loss surgery?
No, a tummy tuck is not a weight loss surgery. It is designed to remove excess skin and tighten abdominal muscles. For best results, patients should be at or near their ideal weight before undergoing a tummy tuck.
What happens if I gain weight after a tummy tuck?
Significant weight gain after a tummy tuck can stretch the skin and muscles, potentially reversing the results. It’s important to maintain a stable weight to preserve the long-term outcome of the procedure.
