Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Seattle
Also serving Bellevue, Kirkland, & Everett
Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is one of the most popular procedures performed by Dr. Pratt, a highly skilled Seattle / Tacoma cosmetic surgeon. Common complaints from patients who want to undergo tummy tuck procedures include excess stretch-damaged skin in the middle and lower abdomen, a large fatty deposit in the lower abdomen, and generalized bulging of the abdominal wall that is unresponsive to exercises such as sit-ups and crunches. These problems are often noted in women following pregnancy or substantial weight loss. Occasionally, the lower abdominal skin and fat will hang down, causing chronic skin rashes, and can become increasingly difficult to conceal beneath clothing.
Abdominoplasty |
BeforeAfter |
View Tummy Tuck Before and After Photos |
What problems are improved with an Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty is a major cosmetic surgery procedure that is very effective in removing excess abdominal skin and fat, as well as tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall, giving you a firmer contour. Dr. Pratt often combines liposuction of the flank and hip regions in order to “blend” these areas in, thus avoiding an “operated on” appearance. For those with extra stretch-damaged skin or protruding abdomens, the results can be quite dramatic. Abdominoplasty is also helpful in completely removing lower abdominal scars such as an unsightly appendectomy scar. An abdominoplasty procedure can help enhance your appearance and boost your self-confidence.
Is my belly button moved during Abdominoplasty?
No, the belly button is firmly attached to the abdominal wall beneath the skin and cannot be moved surgically. What actually happens during Abdominoplasty is the skin surrounding the belly button is replaced by healthier skin which is pulled down from the upper abdomen. Your same belly button is simply brought out through the new skin and sutured (Learn more about our Bikini Belly Button)
Where will the scars be after my tummy tuck?
Dr. Pratt will place a small scar in the belly button region and a scar just above the pubic hair. Dr. Pratt may also advise you to participate in our Scar Reduction Program, depending on your skin type and history of scarring.
What is a Mini-Tummy Tuck?
When fat deposits are mostly below the navel, a Partial Abdominoplasty or ‘Mini-Tummy Tuck’ might be the best option. In this outpatient procedure skin is removed below at the level of the pubic hair, the lower abdominal muscles are tightened and liposuction is performed for a more pleasing overall result.
How much discomfort will I have?
Following tummy tuck surgery, patients experience varying amounts of discomfort. Most of the discomfort results from spasm of the abdominal muscles which are tightened during surgery. Dr. Pratt will prescribe both an oral pain medication and a strong muscle relaxant. Learn more about our PainBuster Program. Nausea and vomiting can contribute significantly to postoperative pain, thus Dr. Pratt will prescribe an anti-nausea “patch” prior to your surgery (No Nausea protocol).
Am I a good candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
The best candidates for abdominoplasty surgery in Seattle at Pratt Plastic Surgery are:
- In good physical and emotional health
- Bothered or even impaired by a bulging abdomen
- Dealing with excess abdominal fat that does not respond to diet and exercise
- Left with excess stretch-damaged skin following pregnancy or significant weight loss
Dr. Pratt usually performs abdominoplasty in conjunction with liposuction of the flank area in order to blend in the final result for a natural, “unoperated” look.
My Initial Consultation
During your initial consultation, Dr. Pratt will evaluate your overall health, inquire as to what your goals of treatment are, assess your contours and skin tone, then discuss the effect of any scars that may be already present from previous surgeries. He will review your options for treatment, whether they be Mini-Tummy Tuck, or Full Abdominoplasty, and/or liposuction. This is your opportunity to speak openly with Dr. Pratt about any questions or concerns you may have.
What does preparation for Abdominoplasty entail?
Prior to your surgery, you will attend your preoperative appointment with Dr. Pratt, at least two weeks prior to your surgery date. At that time, our staff will review your consent forms with you, answer any questions you might have, and the risks and benefits of surgery will be thoroughly reviewed. You will be given your prescriptions to be filled prior to your surgery. You will be given a list of medications and supplements to avoid for two weeks before and after surgery. If you are a smoker, you will be instructed to stop smoking at least two weeks prior to surgery. You should not smoke for at least two weeks following surgery.
How is an Abdominoplasty done?
Abdominoplasty is outpatient surgery carried out under general anesthesia in either our office surgicenter or at an area hospital. When done in conjunction with hysterectomy or multiple other procedures, an inpatient stay may be required. Complete Abdominoplasty takes approximately three hours, whereas partial (mini) Abdominoplasty takes about two hours. A board certified anesthesiologist monitors your breathing and vital signs throughout, and stays with you until you regain full consciousness.
The incisions include one just above the pubic hair and one inside the belly button. Excess skin and fat is removed and the abdominal muscles tightened. The remaining skin is brought down and sewn just above the pubic hair. Dr. Pratt usually chooses to perform some liposuction in the flank region in order to obtain a more natural contour. As part of our PainBuster Therapy, prior to finishing your procedure Dr. Pratt makes sure to administer a long-acting numbing medicine in order to minimize your discomfort following surgery. Additionally, two tiny plastic tubes for an On-Q Pain Pump will also be placed beneath the skin if you desire, and this will provide an even longer lasting numbing effect to the surgical area. Dressings and an abdominal binder are then applied.
Dr. Pratt also offers drainless tummy tuck surgery in Seattle. Please read our article on this topic to learn more.
My Recovery
You will be discharged to home from our surgicenter in Kirkland Washington with two small drains which will help evacuate any excess fluid from within your healing wound. Although Dr. Pratt encourages a restful seven to ten days following surgery you will be able to walk, climb a limited number of stairs, and go to the bathroom. It is important to avoid any excess activity such as housework, shopping, and recreational activities during this period. An optional On-Q Pain Pump is available, making the first three to five days of recovery much more comfortable.
Time off from work is usually at least seven to ten days, depending on what your particular job entails. For others, it might be longer. Following the activity restrictions after surgery will pay off with a quicker and less complicated recovery. You will wear an abdominal binder for approximately four weeks following surgery. Your first follow-up visit with Dr. Pratt will be at approximately one week at which time Dr. Pratt will assess your progress and probably remove your drains. All of your sutures are dissolvable and will not require removal.
Can my Abdominoplasty be performed at the same time as my hysterectomy?
Absolutely, Dr. Pratt often performs Abdominoplasty in concert with hysterectomy carried out by the patient’s gynecologist.
Is Abdominoplasty for me?
It could be, if you’re in good physical and emotional health and lead an active lifestyle but are bothered by abdominal fat and stretched or damaged skin that does not respond to diet and exercise. For women, a tummy tuck is highly effective in reducing the amount of loose skin around the abdomen and tightening the abdomen after pregnancy. Women who have recently given birth often receive a tummy tuck in conjunction with other procedures as part of a surgical package known as the mommy makeover. If you have lost a significant amount of weight but still have loose, sagging skin and fat, it’s a great solution. Abdominoplasty can improve and enhance your appearance and give a needed boost to your self-confidence.
Why should I consider Dr. David Pratt to perform my Abdominoplasty surgery?
Dr. Pratt is a highly skilled Everett tummy tuck specialist with many years of experience in performing abdominoplasty surgery. In addition to being an expert in abdominoplasty, he is also considered a top thigh lift and arm lift specialist. Dr. Pratt and his staff are dedicated to helping all of their tummy tuck Everett, Seattle and Bellevue patients achieve the tight, slim midsection that they desire. Dr. Pratt’s utmost concern is the comfort and safety of each and every patient. Our modern Seattle area office offers a warm and friendly atmosphere and is outfitted with some of the most advanced and sophisticated technology found today.
I am interested, what do I do next?
Seeking reliable answers to your questions about abdominoplasty surgery? Schedule your confidential consultation with plastic surgeon Dr. David Pratt to find out if you are a good candidate for this or other procedures. Be sure to ask about our unique fee reduction program. Check out Dr. Pratts before & after tummy tuck procedure photos while you get ready for your private consultation. So go ahead and live your dreams!