Achieve a flatter, firmer abdomen with a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), a procedure that removes excess skin and fat while tightening abdominal muscles. Dr. Stephen Lu, an expert in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, offers personalized care to address concerns such as loose skin, weakened muscles, and stubborn fat, enhancing your confidence.
Achieve a flat, contoured midsection With a Tummy Tuck in Carlisle, PA
A tummy tuck in Carlisle, PA, or abdominoplasty, helps you achieve a smoother, firmer abdominal profile. It’s ideal if you’re struggling with excess skin, weakened abdominal muscles, or stubborn fat that won’t go away with diet and exercise. Whether caused by pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or genetics, these concerns can affect your confidence. During a tummy tuck, Dr. Lu skillfully removes excess tissue, tightens muscles, and contours the area to create a more toned appearance, helping you achieve a flat, contoured midsection.
Tummy tuck/abdominoplasty treats:
- Excess skin and fat in the abdominal area
- Stretched or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
- Loose, sagging skin after significant weight loss
- Stretch marks on the lower abdomen (below the belly button)
- Abdominal bulges resistant to diet and exercise
- Weakened core strength caused by muscle laxity
Who is a good candidate for tummy tuck/abdominoplasty
You may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you’re in overall good health, have excess abdominal skin, weakened muscles, or stubborn fat that won’t respond to diet and exercise. During your consultation, Dr. Stephen Lu will evaluate your medical history, discuss your goals, and examine your abdominal area. He’ll determine if a tummy tuck is right for you based on your unique needs and expectations. This ensures the procedure is safe and effective, helping you achieve a flatter, more toned abdomen.
Advantages of tummy tuck/abdominoplasty:
- Removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area
- Tightens weakened or separated abdominal muscles
- Improves abdominal contour for a flatter, toned appearance
- Reduces the appearance of stretch marks on the lower abdomen
- Enhances core strength and stability
- Provides long-lasting results when paired with a healthy lifestyle
Your tummy tuck/abdominoplasty procedure in Carlisle
Your tummy tuck in Carlisle, PA begins with general anesthesia to ensure you’re completely comfortable throughout the surgery. Dr. Lu will start by making a horizontal incision in the lower abdomen, typically located just above the pubic hairline. The length of the incision depends on the extent of correction required. In cases of a full abdominoplasty, a second incision may be made around the navel to reposition it for a natural appearance after the excess skin is removed.
Next, Dr. Lu carefully separates the skin from the underlying abdominal wall to access the muscles. If you have muscle separation (diastasis recti), these muscles are sutured together to restore a firm and stable core. Excess fat and skin are then excised, and the remaining skin is gently pulled downward and sutured into place. After creating an opening for the repositioned navel, the incisions are closed with layered sutures to ensure minimal tension and surgical drains may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation.
Recovery from tummy tuck/abdominoplasty
After your tummy tuck, Dr. Lu will provide personalized post-operative instructions to support a safe recovery. Swelling, bruising, and some discomfort are normal in the first few days and can be managed with prescribed medications. Surgical drains, if used, are typically removed within 1-2 weeks, and you’ll need to wear a compression garment to minimize swelling and support your abdomen. Most patients can resume light activities, such as walking, within a few days, but it’s essential to avoid bending or lifting during this time.
Depending on your healing progress and job demands, you can typically resume regular daily activities, including work, within 2-3 weeks. Strenuous workouts and heavy lifting should be avoided for 6-8 weeks. Swelling will gradually subside over several months, and the final results will become visible after 3-6 months, revealing a smoother, more contoured abdomen.
Tummy tuck/abdominoplasty FAQs
Will I have visible scars after a tummy tuck?
Yes, there will be some scarring after a tummy tuck. Dr. Lu takes great care to place the incisions as low as possible, typically just above the pubic area, so they are easily concealed by clothing or swimwear. The scars will initially be red or pink, but over time, they will fade and soften. While complete scar resolution can take up to a year, Dr. Lu will provide scar management tips to minimize their appearance.
Can I have a tummy tuck if I plan to have children in the future?
It’s generally recommended that you wait until you’re done having children before a tummy tuck. Pregnancy can stretch the abdominal skin and muscles, potentially undoing the results. If you are considering a tummy tuck and plan to have children later, Dr. Lu can discuss your goals and help you decide the best timing for the procedure to ensure you get the most out of it.
Meet Dr. Stephen Lu
Dr. Stephen Lu is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon specializing in microsurgery, craniofacial, and pediatric surgery. Dr. Lu is recognized for his skill in both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures, ensuring each patient receives personalized care. If you’re considering a tummy tuck in Carlisle PA, Dr. Lu is committed to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals. Schedule a consultation today to discuss how he can help you transform your abdominal appearance.
