Tummy Tuck Costs: Assessing Abdominoplasty Prices

The cost of a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty can vary significantly based on a variety of factors. The type and extent of the surgery, your region, the surgeon, the anesthesiologist, the location of the surgery—- all of these factors influence the price of a tummy tuck. For an idea of how much the cost can vary, consider that tummy tucks typically range from $3,000 to $10,000, making it one of the more difficult procedures to precisely budget for.

The surgeon’s fee can range from two-thirds to three-quarters of the overall price of the tummy tuck. Surgeon’s fees vary depending on geographical region. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery's 2009 statistics, the average cost of tummy tuck surgery is $5,381.

It is important to compare prices of plastic surgeons in your area, but it is also important to consider the extent of the surgeon’s experience and expertise. Those who are most well-regarded and have highly-successful track records will often be pricier, but where your body is involved, paying more for quality results is always the wiser move.

You’ll want to speak to your surgeon to determine the type of tummy tuck that would be performed to achieve the changes you seek. Typically, it will cost less for a mini tummy tuck than for a full tummy tuck. An extended tummy tuck will generally cost more than either of the other options. An extended abdominoplasty may also involve more extensive post-operative care, which also increases the fees associated with the tummy tuck.

Aside from what you will pay the plastic surgeon, be prepared for extra tummy tuck costs in the form of post-operative fees. Anesthesia, lab work, medical tests, and facility fees may apply. If your abdominoplasty is performed in a hospital, it will likely cost more than one performed in the surgeon’s office. Speak with you surgeon to determine whether these costs are already included in the quoted fee, or if they will be added on. Most plastic surgeons also offer helpful financing options that can make your tummy tuck much easier on the wallet.

All things considered, selecting an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon is the most important choice you will make when preparing to undergo a tummy tuck. When it comes to choosing your plastic surgeon, it is imperative not to allow the cost of the procedure to outweigh the quality of the specialist. If the cost of a tummy tuck seems too steep, discuss the possibility of payment plans with your surgeon or wait until you're more prepared, but do not sacrifice skill for cost! Going with an unproven, questionable tummy tuck surgeon could wind up costing you more, both in money and in physical well-being. Plastic Surgery Portal provides you with the resources to select a skilled, board-certified tummy tuck provider. Contact us today to learn more about tummy tuck costs and to schedule a consultation with a top tummy tuck specialist in your area.

source: plasticsurgeryportal.com; safecosmeticsurgery.net; wikipedia.org

Abdominal Implants: The Six Pack Shortcut

Many men (and women) strive for those ever-desirable six-pack abs these days. Yet, tireless stomach crunches and sit-ups often don’t get the job done, no matter how disciplined you are about your regimen. The truth is, it can be very difficult to eliminate the layer of fat around the mid section, particularly if you are not genetically blessed in the abdominal region to begin with.

However, there is a secret weapon many men have turned to for defined abs and that legendary six pack look-- abdominal implants.

Abdominal Implants Vs Abdominal Etching

Also known as six-pack implants, abdominal implants are an alternative to another popular

procedure known as abdominal etching. Etching is a form of liposuction that gives you a flat, tight stomach with greater muscle definition. The surgeon removes excess fat, and then creates

grooves in remaining fat layers to simulate the appearance of toned abs. Abdominal implants, however, are actual implants designed to mimic the look of the six-pack, and they can provide an even more defined appearance than abdominal etching.

How Abdominal Implants Work

The six-pack implant procedure involves an incision at the belly button, through which the surgeon can place six to eight individual implants. The implants lie over your actual musculature, and are designed to conform to the underlying muscle, and be supple and flexible enough to move with your bodily activity, while also feeling natural to the touch. In many cases, the implant surgery is coupled with a tummy tuck procedure to provide better access to your abdominal muscles before the insertion of the implants.

Abdominal Implant Risk

As with any surgery, some risks are involved. Side effects from anesthesia may occur, in addition to risks of infection. Bruising, swelling, and temporary aches will occur, but should subside within a week after surgery. To learn more about the potential risks of abdominal augmentation procedures, including abdominal etching and abdominal implants, you should speak to your surgeon.

Summing Up

If you would like to find out more about cosmetic procedures available for enhancing your abdominal muscles, Plastic Surgery Portal can help you get started today. The most important decision you will make is selecting your plastic surgeon, and PSP can arrange consultations for you with leading, board-certified specialists in your area. Take the next step today and get the six pack solutions you’ve been looking for. Contact us today and arrange a private consult with a abdominal expert practicing near you!

source: plasticsurgeryportal.com; safecosmeticsurgery.net; wikipedia.org

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Women and men who have loose abdominal skin and fat that is concentrated in the abdomen can benefit from abdominoplasty. Sometimes these conditions are inherited. In other instances, substantial weight loss may cause abdominal skin to become flaccid. Abdominoplasty also can tighten muscles that have been separated and weakened by pregnancy. The procedure may somewhat improve the appearance of

stretch marks, especially those located below the navel.

Your Personal Consultation

During the consultation, you will be asked about the results you would like to achieve from abdominoplasty. This will help your surgeon to understand your expectations and determine whether they realistically can be achieved.

Am I a good candidate for abdominoplasty?

You may be a good candidate for abdominoplasty if you have one or more of the following conditions:

• excess or sagging abdominal skin
• an abdomen that protrudes and is out of proportion to the rest of your body
• abdominal muscles that have been separated and weakened
• excess fatty tissue that is concentrated in your abdomen

If you plan to become pregnant or lose weight in the future, you should discuss this with your plastic surgeon. Scarring from previous abdominal surgery may limit the results of your abdominoplasty.

How will my plastic surgeon evaluate me for abdominoplasty?

Your plastic surgeon may examine your abdomen while you are standing as well as lying down. Your skin tone and the degree of loose skin in the abdominal region will be assessed. Your surgeon also will evaluate the amount of excess fat in your abdomen and the condition of your abdominal muscles.

You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your medical history. This will include information about any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received, pregnancies, previous surgeries and medications that you currently take. It is important for you to provide complete information.

Will my insurance help cover the cost of surgery?

Abdominoplasty, as an aesthetic (cosmetic) procedure, generally is

not covered by insurance. In some instances, however, a patient may have a hernia and not just a spreading of the abdominal muscles. Insurance reimbursement may be available for that portion of the procedure that is not cosmetic.

Many factors determine your eligibility for coverage, including the specific terms of your insurance policy. A letter of predetermination may be required by your insurance company prior to surgery. Your plastic surgeon or a staff member in your surgeon's office will discuss these matters with you.

How Abdominoplasty Is Performed

Individual factors and personal preferences will determine the specific technique selected to smooth and flatten your abdomen.

Where are the incisions placed?

Generally, a horizontal incision is placed just within or above the pubic area. The length of the incision, which extends laterally toward the pelvic bones, depends largely on the amount of skin to be removed. The contour of this incision will vary somewhat according to the structure of your abdomen and the style of bathing suit or undergarments that you prefer. Your plastic surgeon will try to keep the incision within your bathing suit lines, but this may not always be possible.

Generally, a horizontal incision is placed just within or above the pubic area. If there is loose skin above the navel, the surgeon may make a second incision around the navel. Skin in the shaded area is separated from the abdominal wall.

Some patients have loose skin above the navel. In such cases, the surgeon may make a second incision around the navel so that the redundant skin above it can be pulled down. The excess abdominal skin is then removed. The position of the navel remains unchanged.

To tighten the abdominal wall, the surgeon brings loose underlying tissue and muscle together with sutures.

Skin of the lower abdomen that contains stretch marks may be removed as well. Any remaining stretch marks may be somewhat flattened and improved, but you should not expect a dramatic change in their appearance.

Abdominal skin is pulled downward, and the excess is removed. A small opening is made to bring the navel through.

The procedure may include tightening of the underlying abdominal muscles using sutures.

source: plasticsurgeryportal.com; safecosmeticsurgery.net; wikipedia.org