Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck is a surgical body-contouring procedure that removes excess abdominal skin and fat and, when needed, tightens weakened or separated abdominal muscles. The remaining skin is repositioned to create a smoother abdominal profile. During a full tummy tuck, the belly button is generally brought through a new opening so it remains in a natural position after excess skin is removed.

Abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss. It is most appropriate for patients who are at or near a stable weight but have structural concerns that lifestyle changes cannot correct. These concerns may include stretched skin, a persistent lower abdominal fold, muscle separation, or a combination of skin laxity and localized fat.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck focuses primarily on the lower abdomen below the belly button. It may be appropriate for a limited number of patients with mild lower-abdominal skin laxity and little or no upper-abdominal looseness. The incision is generally shorter than with a full tummy tuck, but the procedure also provides less correction.

Full Tummy Tuck

A full tummy tuck treats the upper and lower abdomen. It generally includes a low horizontal incision, removal of excess skin, tightening of the abdominal wall when indicated, and creation of a new opening for the belly button.

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck uses a longer incision to address excess skin that continues beyond the front of the abdomen toward the flanks. It may be recommended when a standard tummy tuck would leave substantial laxity at the sides of the waist.

Lower Body Lift

A lower body lift is more extensive and treats laxity around the abdomen, hips, flanks, and lower back. It is most commonly considered after major weight loss. Some body-contouring procedures are staged to reduce surgical burden and make recovery more manageable.

Recovery varies according to the extent of surgery, whether muscle repair or liposuction is performed, and individual healing. Swelling, bruising, tightness, fatigue, and limited mobility are expected during early recovery.

• First several days Walking begins soon after surgery to encourage circulation, but movement is limited and assistance is important.
• First one to two weeks Swelling and tightness gradually improve. Drains may remain in place temporarily when used.
• Following weeks Activity increases gradually. Lifting and strenuous exercise remain restricted until Dr. Lovelace confirms that healing is adequate.
• Approximately six to eight weeks and beyond Many patients are cleared for a broader range of activity, although the exact timeline varies. Residual swelling and scar maturation continue for months.

Compression garments, incision care, drain care, medication use, sleeping position, and activity progression should follow Dr. Lovelace’s specific postoperative instructions.