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Tummy Tuck in New Jersey

Tummy Tuck New Jersey

Interested in a Tummy Tuck in New Jersey?

Often, people consider a tummy tuck after experiencing significant weight loss, pregnancy, or simply due to the natural aging process, which can lead to stretched abdominal muscles and loose skin that no amount of diet and exercise can fully address.

The tummy tuck procedure offers a comprehensive solution by creating a smoother and more contoured abdominal profile.

What is A Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, trims extra skin and fat from the abdomen to provide a flatter appearance. Also, your surgeon will tighten the abdominal wall muscles with sutures for even better results.

A tummy tuck also may be performed because of aging, heredity, and prior surgeries. In addition, it has a high satisfaction rate and can give you a significant boost in your self-confidence.

Dr. Smita R. Ramanadham – Female Plastic Surgeon can perform a tummy tuck to give you the slender, youthful look you crave. She is a double board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in tummy tucks and other cosmetic procedures in the New Jersey.

SMITA R. RAMANADHAM, M.D. – Female Plastic Surgeon
American Society of Plastic Surgeon's
American Board of Plastic
The Aesthetic Society

Smita R. Ramanadham, M.D.– Female Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Smita Ramanadham, originally from New Jersey, possesses an in-depth understanding of the unique objectives of both women and men in the New Jersey Area. After achieving a successful academic career at Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, MA, she is delighted to return to her home state.

Dr. Ramanadham completed her plastic and reconstructive surgery training at the renowned University of Texas Southwestern in Dallas, TX, which ranks first nationally in plastic surgery programs, according to Doximity. During her training, she had the invaluable opportunity to learn directly from the world’s foremost experts.

She actively contributes as a dedicated member of The Aesthetic Society, a highly respected organization representing the most qualified group of aesthetic plastic surgeons. Furthermore, she actively participates as a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and values the chance to enhance the field of plastic surgery on a larger scale. Within the ASPS, she serves on multiple national committees, including Women Plastic Surgeons, Young Plastic Surgeons Steering Committee, Curriculum Committee, Social Media Subcommittee, Wellness Task Force, and Coding and Payment Policy Committee.

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Tummy Tuck Procedure

There are two types of tummy tucks, and Dr. Smita will advise you about which is your best option. Both of the procedures below require general anesthesia and several weeks of recovery.

Complete Tummy Tuck

This procedure is best for patients who need the most skin removed. The incision is made from hip to hip at the bikini line, but the size of the cut depends on how much tissue must be removed.

Dr. Smita will manipulate and shape the skin and fat as required, and she also will tighten the abdominal muscles with sutures. She may place drains under the skin that will be removed in a few days.

Partial Tummy Tuck

This procedure is performed on patients who only have loose skin below the belly button. It involves shorter incisions and is done on patients with less sagging skin.

Mini Tummy Tuck 

A mini tummy tuck offers a scaled-back approach to abdominoplasty, ideal for those seeking subtle enhancements in their appearance.

Tummy Tuck Before and After

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    Tummy Tuck Benefits

    Some of the benefits of a tummy tuck are:

    • Flatter Abdomen

    The most significant benefit of this procedure is having a flat belly again. In addition, the procedure removes extra fat and skin and tightens the abdominal muscles to provide a slimmer, younger appearance.

    • Strengthens Core

    This procedure tightens the abdominal muscles, which gives you a stronger core and better flexibility. Also, having a firmer abdomen can improve your posture and reduce back pain.

    • Reduces Health Risks

    Losing excess skin and fat in the midsection can improve your health and reduce the risks of diabetes, heart disease, gallstones, and sleep apnea. In addition, having a tummy tuck can be part of a generally healthy lifestyle as you age.

    • Prevents Hernias

    When Dr. Smita strengthens the abdominal muscles, this can reduce the stress on the stomach muscles that can eventually cause a ventral hernia.

    • Improved Bodily Function Control

    Aging, being pregnant, and losing weight all can reduce our control over the bladder and bowels. These issues can be resolved by losing extra fat and skin in the belly. In addition, many patients report that they have better bowel and bladder control after a tummy tuck.

    • Relieves Incontinence

    After pregnancy, some women may have problems with accidental urine leaks when they sneeze, cough, or laugh. This is known as urinary incontinence, and a tummy tuck can reduce the problem.

    Ideal Candidates

    Tummy tucks are good for men and women who are in good health and near their ideal body weight. You also should not smoke or have any serious health problems that could compromise your recovery or results.

    You should not confuse this procedure with liposuction, which removes extra fat from the abdomen. But Dr. Smita can perform liposuction while doing the tummy tuck. Doing liposuction with a tummy tuck can provide outstanding results for most patients.

    Good candidates are often women who have had children and have extra fat and loose skin in the belly they cannot lose with diet and exercise.

    Other good candidates are men or women who have lost weight but have loose fat and skin in the abdomen.

    If you plan to get pregnant again, you probably should wait to have your tummy tuck; pregnancy will undo your results.

    Surgery Preparation for Tummy Tuck

    Smoking can boost the chance of complications and slow healing, so you need to stop several weeks before and after the procedure. You also need to stop using any type of nicotine for at least a month before surgery and two weeks after.

    It’s also essential to eat healthy, well-balanced meals before and after surgery. You should not be dieting when getting ready for a tummy tuck because good nutrition is necessary for healing. In addition, there can be complications if you don’t eat a healthy diet. Talk to Dr. Smita for eating tips after the procedure.

    Dr. Smita also may have you stop taking certain medications before surgery that thin the blood. These include aspirin and NSAIDs. She will let you know when it’s safe to retake these medications.

    Before surgery, you should set up a comfortable recovery area at home that includes comfortable clothing, plenty of movies and books, a handheld shower, and a telephone within reach.

    Tummy Tuck Risks And Complications

    Most tummy tucks are done with excellent results and few complications. However, you will have some pain and swelling after your tummy tuck, and Dr. Smita will prescribe pain medication if needed.

    You will be sore for several weeks, and you also may experience numbness, bruising, and fatigue. These issues usually resolve after one or two months.

    As with all surgeries, there are risks; you have a higher chance of complications if you have diabetes, lung cancer, heart disease, liver disease, or poor circulation.

    Some potential complications are:

    • Excessive bleeding
    • Infection
    • Fluid accumulation
    • Blood clots
    • Poor incision healing
    • Scarring
    • Numbness

    Some patients also may experience fat necrosis, wound separation, and asymmetrical results. In addition, a revision procedure may be necessary for some complications.

    It’s important to attend your follow-up appointments with Dr. Smita to ensure your recovery is going well.

    Tummy Tuck Recovery

    The tummy tuck surgeries are one of the most invasive cosmetic procedures, and you will need several weeks to recover. So expect to give yourself plenty of time to heal and have a rest from certain activities and responsibilities for a while.

    If you have small children, you will need help with them for at least two weeks; you cannot lift anything more than 10 pounds during this time.

    Dr. Smita will give you an abdominal binder to wear for four to six weeks to reduce fluid buildup and support your belly. She also may give you an antibiotic and an anticoagulant.

    You will probably need to avoid strenuous activities for about six weeks, but taking a daily walk is good for your health and healing. Also, you should not drink alcohol if you’re taking pain medication.

    It will be several weeks before you get back to normal, and you won’t be able to drive for about a month. Dr. Smita will check in during your recovery to determine when you should start to increase your activity level.

    Tummy Tuck Cost New Jersey

    When it comes to the tummy tuck cost New Jersey surgeons charge, there are five basic elements to consider.

    New Jersey Tummy Tuck Cost

    First, there is your surgeon’s fee. Every surgeon charges a different amount for their services. Surgeons with extensive training and many years of experience will charge more for their expertise and superior abilities.

    Second, there’s the cost of using an operating room at a hospital or the surgical facilities at your surgeon’s office (some surgeons have in-office operating rooms). Hospitals and surgical facilities will charge for the use of their space, equipment, staff, and materials. Everything from bed sheets to sutures will have a price.

    Next, the anesthesia that is used in your surgery will also come with a cost. Your anesthesiologist will charge fees for their skills and expertise. The anesthesia itself will cost money as well, and the monitoring equipment and personnel necessary to carry out the use of the anesthesia during your surgery will come with a cost too.

    You also must consider the cost of any preoperative exams or tests that may be ordered prior to your surgery. For example, some patients may need medical clearance from their general practitioner before they can move forward with a tummy tuck. Your New Jersey tummy tuck cost will also include these charges.

    Finally, after your surgery, you will have several expenses related to recovery. For example, you will need to pay for prescription medications, compression garments, any in-home care you may decide to hire, and other potential expenses.

    Complementary Procedures

    When you have your tummy tuck, you may want to think about other surgeries to transform your body, such as a mommy makeover which includes liposuction. Other options to consider are a breast lift and breast augmentation.

    For patients interested in other procedures, please discuss your goals with Dr. Smita. Having more than one procedure at a time allows you to have all your recovery done at once, and it’s most cost-effective.

    Tummy Tuck FAQ

    Some of the most common questions about New Jersey tummy tucks include:

    What Does A Tummy Tuck Do?

    This procedure can remove loose skin and fat, as well as tighten the abdominal muscles. It also can remove stretch marks from pregnancy and extra skin below the belly button. But a tummy tuck won’t change stretch marks outside this area.

    Will A Tummy Tuck Make My Waist Smaller?

    Your waist may be smaller after Dr. Smita removes extra fat and skin. However, if you have too much excess fat in the belly or flanks, Dr. Smita may also recommend liposuction.

    Can I Climb Stairs After A Tummy Tuck?

    You cannot engage in heavy exercise or lifting for about six weeks, and you can drive after about two weeks. But be careful when climbing stairs, especially when you’re taking prescription pain medication.

    Is It Worth It To Get A Tummy Tuck?

    While you need to wait several months to see the full results, the good news is most patients are delighted with their tummy tuck. Furthermore, the results will last for many years if you keep a steady weight.

    Also, the tummy tuck has a 97% ‘worth it’ rating on RealSelf.com.

    Can I Sleep On My Belly?

    You cannot sleep on your stomach for three to four weeks after a tummy tuck. So, before your procedure, try to get accustomed to sleeping on your back.

    Can I Do Sit-Ups After A Tummy Tuck?

    After seven to 10 weeks, you should be able to get back to many forms of exercise, including sit-ups, crunches, and planks.

    What Will My Tummy Tuck Scar Look Like?

    The Tummy Tuck scar generally runs from hip to hip and can’t be seen if you’re wearing underwear or a swimsuit.

    How Long Will My Tummy Tuck Last?

    A tummy tuck is considered a permanent procedure because the skin and fat that Dr. Smita removes cannot come back. However, if you maintain a steady weight, you can expect your tummy tuck to last 15 years or more.

    However, if you gain weight or become pregnant, you may undo your tummy tuck results.

    What is included in a tummy tuck?

    Dr. Smita performs a gently arched, horizontal incision close to the pubic hairline, extending from one hip to the other. They carefully separate the skin and fatty tissue from the underlying structures.

    Dr. Smita then sutures and reinforces loose or separated abdominal muscles while eliminating any surplus fat.

    Who should not get a tummy tuck?

    If you have undisclosed underlying health issues or are dealing with uncontrolled medical conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, or a bleeding disorder, your plastic surgeon will advise you to prioritize addressing and managing your health before considering abdominoplasty.

    Is A Tummy Tuck Painful?

    You should be prepared for a one to two-month recovery from a tummy tuck, and you may experience mild to moderate pain. Dr. Smita will prescribe pain medication for the first one or two weeks, and then over-the-counter medication should suffice.

    How Long Do I Have To Be Bent Over?

    It is recommended to stay hunched over while walking for about two weeks after the procedure. This will increase your comfort and allow the body to heal.

    Will Fat Come Back After A Tummy Tuck?

    The fat that is removed by a tummy tuck cannot grow back. But there still will be fat left in the abdomen that can grow if you gain weight. You also can gain weight in other parts of the body. That’s why it’s essential to maintain a steady weight after your tummy tuck.

    You can ensure that your results last for 10 years or more by maintaining your weight. If you gain or lose a lot of weight, it could undo your results.

    Am I Too Old For A Tummy Tuck?

    There isn’t a cutoff age for having a tummy tuck. More important than your age is your physical fitness, weight, and overall health. There are many patients well over 50 who have a successful tummy tuck.

    How Many Sizes Can I Lose With A Tummy Tuck?

    How many sizes you can lose depends on your starting point and how your body reacts to the procedure. Most patients lose at least two or three pants sizes after a tummy tuck. However, if you had a lot of loose skin, you may go down up to four pant sizes.

    Why Is My Belly Not Flat After A Tummy Tuck?

    Some people may not have a completely flat abdomen after the tummy tuck. This is because the contents of the abdomen are pushing out behind your abdominal muscles. Dr. Smita will tighten your abdominal muscles as much as possible to give you a flat stomach.

    How Long Will My Abdomen Feel Tight After A Tummy Tuck?

    Most patients have a tight feeling in the skin and muscles of the abdomen for six to 12 weeks. However, some patients need longer for normal sensation to come back as the tissues heal.

    How Much Skin Will Be Removed During A Tummy Tuck?

    This varies by case. Some factors that influence how much skin is removed are how much loose skin you have, your weight, and the type of tummy tuck Dr. Smita performs.

    How much weight should I lose for a tummy tuck?

    Before considering a tummy tuck procedure, it is typically advised that you maintain your desired weight for a period of six to twelve months. Many surgeons suggest that patients aim to be within a range of 10 to 15 pounds from their target weight.

    Book Your Tummy Tuck Consultation

    Whether it is addressing the effects of weight loss, pregnancy, or the natural aging process, a tummy tuck can provide significant aesthetic and psychological benefits, helping individuals regain confidence and improve their body image. 

    With proper preparation and realistic expectations, tummy tuck surgery has the potential to be a life-changing procedure, offering individuals the opportunity to achieve their desired abdominal appearance and boost their self-esteem.  We can recommend  options for Tummy Tuck surgery , depending on your individual struggles. 

    We welcome you to contact our office in New Jersey and set up your personal consultation with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Smita R. Ramanadham .

    References

    Tummy Tuck Overview. (n.d.). Accessed at

    https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tummy-tuck/about/pac-20384892

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