Tummy Tuck

It’s not always possible to conceal a large, round, or sagging belly under your clothes. With a tummy tuck by double board-certified plastic surgeon Alton E. Ingram, MD, at Ingram Cosmetic Surgery in Nashville and Brentwood, Tennessee, you can flatten your belly and define your hips at the same time. Call Ingram Cosmetic Surgery or schedule your one-on-one tummy tuck consultation online today. 

What is a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgery that reduces the size of your abdomen. Many people are unhappy with having belly fat despite it being a common feature among adults. Even if you commit to healthy eating and a strict exercise routine, you might not see the size of your belly go down much. 

Tummy tuck surgery can:

• Tighten and define your abdominal muscles
• Get rid of fat on your flanks and abdomen
• Minimize the appearance of stretch marks on your abdomen
• Make your hips more prominent

Whether your main issue is excess skin or excess fat, a personalized tummy tuck can flatten your belly and trim you down. Dr. Ingram examines you closely during your initial consultation and plans the surgery according to your needs. 

Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck?

During your consultation at Ingram Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Ingram goes over your medical history to make sure you’re a good candidate for abdominoplasty. You can get it on its own or as part of a more comprehensive and customizable mommy makeover. 

You might be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you:

• Have realistic expectations
• Have loose skin and fat around your abdomen
• Are at a stable weight
• Are generally healthy
• Can stop smoking or vaping for at least a month before surgery and a month after

If you have any underlying medical conditions that could present a challenge during your surgery, Dr. Ingram advises you of the risks and may be able to provide any special accommodations you need. 

How long does it take to recover from a tummy tuck?

Tummy tuck recovery takes up to three months. During that time, you might see some swelling and bruising. Dr. Ingram tells you how to manage these issues so you can breeze through the recovery without complications. 

You must limit activity for the first few weeks of recovery. This means taking time off work, avoiding lifting anything heavy, and staying away from the gym. After the first week or two, you can continue with low-impact activities like driving and cooking.

Dr. Ingram also tells you how to manage any dressings or drainage tubes as you go through the initial stages of recovery and welcomes you in for follow-up appointments to check your progress with healing. 

Call Ingram Cosmetic Surgery or schedule a consultation online to see if you’re a candidate for a tummy tuck today.