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M. Kirk Moore, MD
Thomas E. Geraghty
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Endoscopic Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Who are the Best Candidates for a Endoscopic Tummy Tuck?

An endoscopic abdominoplasty, like other endoscopic procedures, is performed using a small camera, called an endoscope, which is attached to small surgical instruments. This gives endoscopic abdominoplasty a major advantage over the traditional procedure: the surgery can be performed using very small incisions that are easily concealed. The incisions used in an endoscopic abdominoplasty are usually placed above the pubis or inside of the navel. The muscles are tightened and sutured through the incision. Liposuction performed during the endoscopic abdominoplasty removes fat, a drain is placed to prevent fluid buildup, and the incision is closed.

Endoscope Tummy Tuck Recovery.

Recovery from an endoscope abdominoplasty is also greatly aided by the minimally invasive nature of this procedure. Patients will still feel slight to moderate discomfort after an endoscopic abdominoplasty, and some swelling is to be expected. Like any other surgical procedure, exercising and stopping smoking prior to undergoing an endoscopic abdominoplasty will help speed recovery and aid in the healing process. Most patients who undergo an endoscopic abdominoplasty are able to return to their normal daily activities within a week or two of surgery, although they will need to put off heavy exercise and strenuous activity until they are fully recovered.

Endoscope Tummy Tuck Cost Range and Insurance Coverage.

$1,800.00 to $6,000.00

Be warned: Insurance carriers generally do not cover elective, cosmetic surgery. But, your carrier may cover a certain percentage if you have a hernia that will be corrected through the procedure, or your anterior muscles are abnormally spread. It’s extremely important that you begin communicating with your insurance company early on, and that you discuss your insurance concerns with your surgeon. In most cases, your surgeon will write a letter to your insurance carrier, making the case for medical necessity, if it applies to you. It’s also very important to realize that insurance may only cover certain portions of the surgery, so make sure you get details. With any cosmetic surgery, this may affect future insurance coverage for you and your premiums may increase.

How Should I Prepare for a Tummy Tuck?

If you smoke, you will have to stop for a certain period as determined by your doctor. It is not enough to just cut down on smoking; you must stop completely, at least for two weeks prior to surgery and for two weeks after. Smoking can increase the risk of complications and delay healing.

Make sure you eat well-balanced, complete meals and do not try to diet excessively before the surgery. Proper nutrition plays a key role in healing properly.

If you take certain medications, your surgeon may instruct you to stop taking these for a certain period before and after the surgery. Your surgeon will determine this as part of your pre-operative consultation.

Your Home Recovery Area Should Include:
  • Plenty of ice packs

  • Supply of loose, comfortable clothing that can be taken on and off very easily

  • Telephone within reaching distance

  • Hand-held shower head and bathroom chair

 

You know yourself personally, so make sure you set up the safest, most comfortable recovery area before you undergo the surgery to meet your personal needs.

What are the Complications and Side Effects with a Endoscope Tummy Tuck?

As expected, you will have pain and swelling in the days following surgery. Your doctor can prescribe a painkiller if needed, and will instruct you on how to best handle the pain.

Soreness may last for several weeks or months. You may also experience numbness, bruising and overall tiredness for that same time period.

As with any surgery, there are risks. Remember, this surgery affects a very crucial part of your body. Though they’re rare, complications can include infection, bleeding under the skin flap, or blood clots. You may carry an increased risk of complications if you have poor circulation, diabetes, or heart, lung or liver disease.

You may experience insufficient healing, which can cause more significant scarring or loss of skin. If you do heal poorly, you may require a second surgery. As we mentioned before, the scars from a tummy tuck are fairly prominent, and though they may fade slightly, they will never completely disappear. Your surgeon may recommend certain creams or ointments to use after you’ve completely healed to help with the scars.

Return to Living

Generally, most people love the new look after they’ve undergone this procedure; however, you may not feel like your normal self for months after the surgery. You’ve gone through a tremendous amount to make this happen, both emotionally and spiritually, and it’s very important that you follow proper diet and exercise to maintain your new look.

 

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Tom Haas, M.D.