Abdominoplasty Questions

Am I a good candidate for abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty, more commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a great way to restore a firmer, flatter appearance to your midsection. If you are close to your ideal weight but have stubborn fat and excess skin that will not respond to diet and exercise, you may be a good candidate for this procedure. If you are not close to your ideal weight, you may still be a candidate – a personal consultation would be able to determine realistic expectations.

Patients who have lost significant weight after pregnancy, or after bariatric surgery, often benefit most from this procedure. It is important that you are in generally good health and that you are prepared for a surgical procedure.

If I have an umbilical hernia, can I still get abdominoplasty?

Plastic surgeon Dr. George Chatson can repair your umbilical hernia while performing an abdominoplasty. The two procedures are often performed in conjunction, and health insurance typically covers the cost of repairing umbilical hernias. This can be discussed with you during your initial consultation.

What can abdominoplasty do for me?

Abdominoplasty can remove excess fat and skin from your tummy. It is also used to tighten and restore the abdominal muscles to their ideal position. This helps ensure a strong core along with a trim and toned appearance. Dr. Chatson will explore all of your options before suggesting the technique best suited to meet your goals and expectations. This may be accomplished with a tummy tuck only or in conjunction with liposuction.

Will there be visible scars following my procedure?

Tummy tucks do create scars. Dr. Chatson will place the incisions in inconspicuous places that can be hidden under your clothes. Scar management techniques like scar cream massage and gel pad application are utilized in order to achieve the best possible result. Scars will fade over time, but some scarring will always be present following abdominoplasty.

Are there any risks with abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty comes with risks such as excessive bleeding, infection, adverse reaction to anesthesia, and delayed wound healing. These complications are rare when the surgery is performed by an experienced plastic surgeon in an accredited medical facility.

If you live in Andover or Lowell, Massachusetts, or Nashua, Salem, or Manchester, New Hampshire or the surrounding areas and are interested in abdominoplasty, please contact George P. Chatson, MD, online or by calling 978-687-1151 (Massachusetts) or 603-882-2103  (New Hampshire) to schedule a consultation.