Tummy Tuck

in Albany, NY

Tummy Tuck

At a Glance

  • Recovery: 1-4 Weeks 1- 2 weeks until driving or back at a desk job 2 - 4 weeks until a more strenuous job 6 weeks until resuming vigorous exercise
  • Cost: View Pricing
  • Anesthesia: General
  • In-Op Length: 3-4 Hours
Despite eating a healthy diet and exercising faithfully, some people can have excess tissue that won’t respond to their best efforts. This can be discouraging and lead to self-consciousness and a decrease in confidence. The good news is that a tummy tuck can fix these issues. Dr. Kayastha specializes in helping patients in Albany, NY and surrounding areas achieve the tighter, flatter midsection they are seeking through advanced plastic surgery procedures. Men and women in New York who have suffered changes to their midsection as they age or undergo body changes due to weight loss or pregnancy may not be able to achieve the trim, toned appearance through diet and exercise alone. Most tummy tuck patients tell us that their concerns of abdominal bulging, due to the separation of abdominal muscles, and excess fat deposits. Many patients have a combination of loose abdominal skin, muscles stretched by pregnancy, and general excess fat in the stomach region.

What is Tummy Tuck Surgery?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that firms and slims the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat and tightening abdominal muscles. Some tummy tuck procedures also include liposuction of the love handles and abdomen, when needed, for more dramatic results. For patients with stretch marks below the belly button, tummy tuck surgery can physically remove the affected skin to help you feel more confident showing off your stomach in clothing and bathing suits.

Who is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

Good candidates for abdominoplasty in Albany, New York are people who are seeking significant results in shaping their waist and midsection, especially when there is loose skin throughout the abdomen. Tummy tuck procedures are popular among women who have undergone pregnancy and childbirth and are looking for a way to get their pre-pregnancy body contour back. In addition, good candidates should:
  • Be in generally good health
  • Be at or near their ideal body weight
  • Have suitable skin elasticity around the surgical area
  • Be non-smokers
  • Have no underlying medical conditions that would prevent them from tolerating surgery
Other people who commonly seek abdominoplasties are men and women who have experienced significant weight loss, and now have excess skin on their abdomen.

What to Expect

A tummy tuck will give you a flatter more attractive midsection.

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What to Expect

Before Treatment

You will have a thorough consultation with Dr. Kayastha to determine the exact combination of procedures to help you achieve your goals.

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What to Expect

During Treatment

Your safety and comfort are our priorities. Surgery is performed at the hospital with general anesthesia. Usually, patients spend one night in the hospital.

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What to Expect

Immediately After

You will have to rest and take it easy for a couple of weeks to ensure you have an optimal recovery. Most patients use pain medication for 1-2 weeks. Patients can do light activities of daily living right away. Strenuous activity like exercising resumes at 6 weeks post-op and gradually increases.

Customize Your Tummy Tuck Procedure

Plastic surgeries are never one-size-fits-all procedures. During your consultations with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha, you and he will develop a personalized surgery plan to address any and all of your needs for the best, most natural-looking tummy tuck results. There are several types of tummy tucks that are categorized by how extensive the specific procedure is. In every abdominoplasty surgery, at least one incision is made and the weakened underlying muscles are tightened, and excess skin is re-draped to appear tighter. Additionally, excess fat can be removed with liposuction techniques. The end result is a smooth, tightened, and toned mid-section.

Standard/Classic Tummy Tuck Surgery

The most popular abdominoplasty technique is best for those who wish to tighten their abdomen both above and below the belly button. The procedure involves a horizontal incision that extends from hip to hip. Dr. Kayastha will always keep the scar as low as possible to keep it hidden by the waistline of your jeans or the bottom of a two-piece swimsuit. An incision is also made around the navel. Next, the abdominal muscles are visualized and the separation of abdominal muscles (rectus diastasis) that contributes to a potbelly appearance is fixed. Once you have a flatter abdominal wall to build upon Dr. Kayastha moves on to address the excess skin. The excess skin is carefully measured and removed. Finally, the belly button is repositioned and the incisions are closed. This procedure is best for healthy men or women who have excess skin and a weakening of the abdominal muscles. Surgery is performed at the hospital under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. Most tummy tuck patients require weeks for a full recovery.

Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck

A fleur-de-lis, or vertical abdominoplasty, is for individuals who have a significant amount of loose skin not only in the lower abdomen but also above the belly button. This procedure involves the same lower incision as a standard tummy tuck. It differs from a standard abdominoplasty because it adds a second vertical incision in the midline of the abdomen. This vertical incision allows the surgeon the ability to remove excess skin above the belly button. The recovery timeline is similar to a full tummy tuck.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck is a smaller version of a standard tummy tuck. This technique addresses only skin and muscle below the belly button. The belly button is not repositioned with a mini tummy tuck. A mini tummy tuck is ideal for patients that have only a minimal amount of loose lower abdominal skin and bulging of the muscles only below the belly button.  During a mini-abdominoplasty, a limited horizontal incision is made above the pubic area. Excess skin below the belly button is removed and the lower abdominal muscles are tightened. There is no scar around the belly button since it does not need to be repositioned. This type of surgery can often be performed in our accredited surgery center with local anesthesia. Sometimes it is performed in the hospital with IV sedation. Recovery generally takes one to two weeks.

Circumferential Tummy Tuck

A circumferential tummy tuck, sometimes called an extended tummy tuck or lower body lift, addresses the hips, lateral thighs, buttocks, and lower back in addition to the abdomen. This technique is reserved for individuals who have loose sagging skin that extends all the way around their body.  To accomplish this procedure, an incision is made that extends 360 degrees around the midsection. This allows Dr. Kayastha to remove the excess skin from the anterior abdomen, lateral abdomen, and back, all in one procedure.  A circumferential tummy tuck requires general anesthesia and is performed in the hospital. This technique requires an overnight stay in the hospital. Recovery takes four to six weeks.

Tummy Tuck FAQs

Can you get pregnant after tummy tuck?

Yes, you can get pregnant after a tummy tuck. Dr. Kayastha advises patients seeking a tummy tuck to wait until they are done having children before considering a tummy tuck. This is because pregnancy and childbirth affects the abdominal region perhaps most of all, which can significantly alter your results.

How many sizes do you lose with a tummy tuck?

There is no definite answer to this question because the results vary from patient to patient. In fact, Dr. Kayastha makes a very specific point of telling patients that no specific post-operative waistline enhancement is guaranteed. For example, if a patient has mostly loose skin, their size may not change very much at all following an abdominoplasty. What is guaranteed is that their midsection will be more shapely and tightly contoured following a tummy tuck.

How much weight can you lose having a tummy tuck?

There is no definite answer to this question because each patient is unique. The most significant weight loss experienced at K Plastic Surgery is about 15 pounds. However, typical patients only lose about 2 pounds with an abdominoplasty. This is because a tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure, but rather a body contouring one.

How much does it cost for a tummy tuck?

The cost of a tummy tuck here in Albany typically ranges from $4,000 to $10,000, but that number may vary based on the extent of your surgery. Dr. Kayastha offers you a personalized estimate during your consultation.

Why doesn’t my tummy get flatter no matter how much I exercise?

Depending on the placement of your abdominal problem bulge, it can be due to a few factors. The first is diastasis recti, in which your abdominal muscles separate and allow your internal organs to press through. Other times, lower belly fat is just incredibly stubborn and does not shrink regardless of exercise.

Do you get a scar from a tummy tuck?

Yes, there is no scarless tummy tuck. Your scar will depend on the exact procedure you undergo (full, mini, vertical, or circumferential tummy tuck). Dr. Kayastha uses gentle, meticulous techniques during surgery to give you the best scar possible. After surgery, he has an extensive regimen in place to optimize the healing of your incisions and ultimately your scar. He commonly uses taping, scar massage, Embrace scar therapy, Biocorneum, and Fraxel laser to give his patients the best scar possible.

How painful is a tummy tuck?

Most patients use medication for one to two weeks. Dr. Kayastha takes multiple measures to ensure that your experience is as pain-free as possible. He uses an On-Q pain pump that drips local anesthetic into your surgical site to decrease your pain. He also commonly prescribes a muscle relaxant for after surgery to prevent muscle soreness that contributes to discomfort.

How long do tummy tucks last?

Generally speaking, tummy tuck results are very long-lasting when patients are already at a stable weight prior to the procedure. Life events such as pregnancy, aging, and significant changes in weight can change the outcome but tummy tuck procedures typically result in nearly permanent body proportion changes.

How do I know if I should have coolsculpting or liposuction instead of a tummy tuck?

An in-person consultation will make this clear. In general, if you have lost a lot of weight or have had kids, the best procedure is usually a tummy tuck to reduce excess skin as well as fat. If you have mild to moderate fat and your skin is not loose, then liposuction or CoolSculpting may be the correct procedure for you.

Are tummy tucks dangerous?

A tummy tuck is typically a fairly extensive surgical procedure, so there is some risk involved. You can mitigate the risks by selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon who can explain these risks thoroughly and ensure youre aware of the lengths to which they go to mitigate them.

Can you get a tummy tuck if youre obese?

Its important to be at or near your ideal weight if youre considering a tummy tuck, due to weight fluctuations having an effect on your results as well as certain weight levels may have increased risks for complications.

Does a tummy tuck tighten muscles?

Yes. A tummy tuck can tighten the underlying abdominal muscles using specialized sutures.

Can you lose weight after tummy tuck?

Yes, people who struggle with excess skin in their abdominal region may feel self-conscious or uncomfortable wit exercise, so often a tummy tuck is an empowering procedure that helps people enhance their fitness level following their results. It is not a weight loss method, however.

Do men get tummy tuck?

Tummy tucks are an excellent option for men looking to lose excess skin and stubborn fat in the abdominal area.

What is the average cost of a tummy tuck?

The cost of a tummy tuck here in Albany typically ranges from $4,000 to $10,000, but that number may vary based on the extent of your surgery. Dr. Kayastha offers you a personalized estimate during your consultation.

What qualifies you for a tummy tuck?

Anyone who wants to improve the appearance of their midsection may be a candidate. You should be in good general health and near your ideal body weight. Those who have had kids, lost weight, or both are the most common people seeking a tummy tuck.

Is there scarring after a tummy tuck?

There is no scarless tummy tuck. Your scar will depend on the exact procedure you undergo (full, mini, vertical, or circumferential tummy tuck). Dr. Kayastha uses gentle meticulous techniques during surgery to give you the best scar possible. After surgery, he has an extensive regimen in place to optimize the healing of your incisions and ultimately your scar. He commonly uses taping, scar massage, Embrace scar therapy, Biocorneum, and Fraxel laser to give his patients the best scar possible.

What is the recovery like?

Many patients will spend one night in the hospital following the surgery. The first two weeks are the hardest. During these weeks, the patient is encouraged to walk and do normal, non-strenuous activities as much as possible. Most patients use pain medication for one to two weeks. Weeks two to four see many patients feeling much closer to normal. This is when some patients start returning to work. Strenuous exercises like CrossFit and long-distance running require 6 weeks of recovery.

How long does a tummy tuck last?

There is no expiration date on a tummy tuck. The factors that would have changed you before like aging, weight gain/loss, and pregnancy will continue to affect you after your tummy tuck. In general, it is best to have a stable weight and be done having children before considering a tummy tuck.

How much weight can I lose from a tummy tuck?

The fat and skin that are removed do not typically weigh that much - usually around an average of one to three pounds.

Can I walk after tummy tuck?

You should be instructed to get up and move around every so often during the course of your tummy tuck recovery, but not fully upright, as this can cause stress on your incision sites.

Do tummy tucks work?

Abdominoplasties are highly effective ways to help people with a variety of abdominal appearance issues achieve a flatter, more toned abdomen with firmer muscles.

How can I lose my stomach fat?

If diet and exercise arent enough to get rid of pockets of stomach fat in unwanted areas, surgical and non-surgical fat reduction can be performed. With other issues, such as excess skin, surgery may be the only or most effective way to get the contour you want.

Do you have to be skinny to get a tummy tuck?

Dr. Kayastha works with patients of varying weights and BMIs to help them find a procedure or treatment thats right for their anatomy and goals. In some cases, this may mean a certain surgery needs to be put off until the patient achieves a healthy, stable weight.

How do I prepare for a tummy tuck?

Before an abdominoplasty, Dr. Kayastha will give you instructions restricting certain medications, avoiding tobacco products and alcohol, and fasting the day prior to surgery. Dr. Kayastha creates a personalized, detailed preparation and recovery plan for all his tummy tuck patients.

How dangerous is a tummy tuck?

When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Kayastha, tummy tucks are perfectly safe procedures.

Preparing for Abdominoplasty in Albany

Good preparation is key for any invasive surgery, and an abdominoplasty is no different. During your consultations, Dr. Kayastha will give you detailed instructions on how best to prepare for your upcoming surgery. Instructions may include:
  • Stopping or adjusting certain medications, including blood thinners
  • Coordinating a caregiver who can transport you to and from the procedure and be with you for 24 hours after surgery
  • Packing a day-of bag for holding the essential items you need before and after surgery
  • Refraining from eating or drinking after midnight the day before your procedure

Recovering From Tummy Tuck Surgery

Abdominoplasty is one of the more invasive cosmetic surgery options out there, capable of achieving dramatic results upon full recovery. This means, however, that there is significant downtime involved with even the standard procedure. Immediately after surgery, you will feel the most pain and discomfort. This can be managed with either over-the-counter or prescription pain medication, depending on Dr. Kayastha’s instructions. For the first few days, you will have drains in place at the incision site to collect excess fluid; Dr. Kayastha will give you instructions for taking care of the drains as well as your incisions prior to surgery. It’s helpful to rest and sleep often to help your body heal, and doing so on an incline helps alleviate the swelling. Dr. Kayastha will also give you a compression garment to help reduce swelling, which you will need to wear for four to six weeks under your clothing. You will be able to get up and walk around for regular but brief periods to encourage circulation starting the first or second day after your abdominoplasty. You will likely need to take a week or two off of work, depending on the type of job and level of activity required. You will need to wait four to six weeks before resuming strenuous activities such as exercise.

Great Experience!

Dr. Kayastha and his staff are wonderful. Everyone involved in my procedure, from scheduling to post-op has been extremely kind and helpful. All of my questions were answered and the procedure was done flawlessly. I am very happy with the results. I would highly recommend K Plastic Surgery.

Read More Testimonials

Tummy Tuck Results

The reason abdominoplasties are so popular is that they’re so effective at providing patients with a smooth, firm, and slim abdomen. Although it can help to look at before-and-after photos of other patients who have undergone this plastic surgery, your tummy tuck results will be unique to you and your natural proportions. In general, after you have fully recovered, you should have firmer abdominal muscles to prevent a bulge from forming, and smooth, tight abdominal skin. In addition, your silhouette may be slimmer, especially if your procedure included liposuction of the abdomen, hips, or love handles. Abdominoplasty patients frequently say that they have increased self-confidence in whatever they choose to wear, and are much more satisfied with the image they see in photos and in the mirror.

Abdominoplasty by Dr. Kayastha:

Alternatives to Abdominoplasty Surgery

For those who aren’t ready or aren’t good candidates for invasive surgeries, or for people looking for something a little different than abdominoplasty to solve their aesthetic desires, K Plastic Surgery provides many alternatives to abdominoplasty surgery in Albany.

Liposuction

To get rid of pockets of stubborn, excess fat that isn’t responding to your best efforts of dieting and exercising, liposuction can help. In this minimally invasive procedure, a thin cannula, or hollow tube, is inserted into the area and literally sucks out unwanted fat. Dr. Kayastha can tell you more about what you can achieve with liposuction during a consultation.

Body Contouring

If you have problem areas other than the abdomen and lower body, another body contouring surgery may be better suited for you. Dr. Kayastha can perform multiple plastic surgery procedures at the same time, such as tummy tuck and arm lift, to help give you the curves you want.

CoolSculpting

For those who don’t want to deal with any incisions, we also offer a completely non-surgical solution to getting rid of excess fat, CoolSculpting. Although not as effective as liposuction or abdominoplasty, CoolSculpting can reduce fat in stubborn areas by as much as 25%.

Abdominoplasty in Albany, New York

Are you ready to take the first step in reaching your body contouring goals? Abdominoplasty is an excellent way to slim your waist and stomach for permanent, beautiful results. Learn more about this procedure or any of the other methods of stomach fat reduction offered by Dr. Kayastha by scheduling a consultation. Call us at 518-674-9060 or contact us online to get started today.
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Dr. Kayastha is a board certified plastic surgeon who serves Albany, NY and the entire Capital Region. Dr. Kayastha completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University and graduated with distinction in all subjects. He then attended medical school at SUNY Buffalo. During his time in Buffalo he also completed a fellowship in surgical pathology at Roswell Park. Following medical school Dr. Kayastha gained a much sought after position in the Michigan State-Grand Rapids integrated plastic surgery residency. After finishing residency training Dr. Kayastha completed a one year fellowship in hand and microsurgery at the Buncke Clinic in San Francisco. To round out his training before starting private practice Dr. Kayastha spent an additional 6 months learning from some of the best cosmetic surgeons in San Francisco. Dr. Kayastha is Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

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Great Experience!

Dr. Kayastha and his staff are wonderful. Everyone involved in my procedure, from scheduling to post-op has been extremely kind and helpful. All of my questions were answered and the procedure was done flawlessly. I am very happy with the results. I would highly recommend K Plastic Surgery.

Read More Testimonials