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Tummy Tuck Surgery

Serving patients in: Paramus, Wyckoff, Ridgewood, Allendale, Woodcliff Lake, Montvale, Saddle River, Upper Saddle River, Westwood, Ho Ho Kus, Park Ridge, Rivervale, Old Tappan, and surrounding areas.

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Bergen County Abdominoplasty at The Breslow Center for Plastic Surgery

The Core Reset

Exercise and diet can only do so much when it comes to reducing excess skin and fat in your midsection. Your body is programmed to store fat in certain areas; this makes weight loss difficult, and significant weight loss extremely difficult.

Stomachs are one of those places, that’s why a muffin top is so common. Weakened skin elasticity and postpartum abdominal muscle separation make the issue even harder to deal with. Candidates often tried dieting and exercise for weight loss, only to find that even with the strictest self-discipline, they weren’t seeing the hourglass shape or six-pack abs they were hoping for. Here is where the tummy tuck surgery comes in.

Tummy Tuck At A Glance

  • Focus: Tighten abdominal muscles and remove excess skin and fat
  • Options: Full tummy tuck, mini tummy tuck, or extended abdominoplasty
  • Duration: Typically 3 to 5 hours in our private, on-site surgery center
  • Recovery: Most patients return to non-strenuous work within 2 to 3 weeks
  • Goal: A flatter, smoother abdomen, a more defined waistline, and enhanced core strength

The Architecture of the Core

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

Abdominoplasty is a major surgery designed to improve the shape and tone of the abdomen. It is often categorized as both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery because it addresses more than the surface. During a tummy tuck surgery, a plastic surgeon removes the extra skin and fat that creates a "pooch" and repairs the underlying abdominal muscles that may have been stretched or weakened over time. This procedure is a cornerstone of plastic surgery for those looking to finalize their body transformation after weight loss.

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What Is the Tummy Tuck Procedure Like?

The Modern Body Blueprint

The first step toward your new you is a tummy tuck consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon. During your tummy tuck consultation, you’ll meet with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Breslow, who will evaluate your health history and take the time to listen to your aesthetic rejuvenation goals.

Your first abdominoplasty consultation

Based on this information, you’ll be offered the treatment plan that best suits your situation, be it a full abdominoplasty or a modified approach, such as a mini tummy tuck, which is a procedure that requires smaller incisions, less extensive anatomic dissection, and shorter operating times. A mini tummy tuck is a procedure that focuses on tightening and flattening the skin below the lower abdomen; it does not address sagging above the navel.

How the tummy tuck surgery process works

You’ll undergo tummy tuck surgery under general anesthesia. Depending on how complex your needs are, the entire tummy tuck procedure may take no longer than three hours.

To perform full abdominoplasty (the most common type of tummy tuck surgery), liposuction of the abdomen is done first, if necessary, to remove excess fat and abdominal skin. Also known as lipoabdominoplasty, this technique will improve your waistline contour for better results.

A horizontal incision along the skin is made from one hipbone to the other, then extended into the upper pubic region near the bikini line. This allows for the removal of excess abdominal skin.

Any existing muscle separation is repaired with permanent internal sutures placed in your abdominal muscle fascia, using a crisscross pattern during the tummy tuck. This tightens your muscles and gives them greater tone.

After excess skin is removed, the remaining skin is pulled taut while caring for the collagen fibers in your skin, and the incision is closed. A second incision is made, concealed within the navel, to adjust the position of your belly button so it is in line with your newly contoured abdomen. Then, this incision is closed, and your tummy tuck surgery is finished.

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A Skin Laxity Solution

What Conditions Does a Tummy Tuck Address?

This procedure is the definitive solution for sagging skin and loose tissue in the lower abdomen. While it is not a weight-loss method, it can remove stretch marks from the extra skin removed. It is particularly effective for women whose abdominal area was significantly altered by pregnancy or for individuals who have lost a large amount of weight and are left with a "pannus" of hanging skin. By removing this tissue, the surgeon can achieve a much smoother, flatter abdominal profile.

  • Eliminates unwanted excess skin and fat for a flatter, firmer stomach that, for most, cannot be achieved with weight loss
  • Gives you sleeker contours and a more defined muscle tone around your abdomen
  • Tightens loose skin and abdominal skin so that it no longer sags or looks crepey (this is often called a pooch)
  • Fixes separated ab muscles so your stomach doesn’t bulge out
  • Improves the appearance of stretch marks on the skin for a better complexion
  • Reshapes your belly button for a more youthful appearance
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Targeted Care for Every Angle

What Areas of the Body Can a Tummy Tuck Address?

While the primary focus is the abdomen, a tummy tuck can be customized to harmonize with other procedures. For example, a mini tummy tuck may be ideal if your concern is limited to the area below the belly button. Many patients choose to combine abdominoplasty with flank or thigh liposuction to ensure the entire midsection is proportionate.

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Why You Should Get Your Tummy Tuck at The Breslow Center

Effortless Proportions

If you're considering a tummy tuck in Paramus or Bergen County, choosing an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you'll make. For more than 20 years, patients throughout Bergen County, Northern New Jersey, and the New York metropolitan area have trusted Dr. Breslow for tummy tuck surgery.

Having performed hundreds of abdominoplasty procedures, he is known for delivering natural-looking results with personalized care. Many of our new patients come to us through referrals from family members and friends who have experienced the exceptional care and outcomes at The Breslow Center for Plastic Surgery.

Am I a candidate for a tummy tuck?

Transformation Terms

The tummy tuck procedure is an effective option for the average plus-size male and female. If you are overweight but not obese, a tummy tuck may be a good option, as it is a weight-loss procedure.

Men and women of a significant weight do have risks. You’re more at risk for infection, so you need to be in good health to undergo surgery. Another thing to consider is your lifestyle.

You’re more at risk for infection, so you need to be in good health to undergo surgery. Another thing to consider is your lifestyle.

You don’t want to get the surgery too soon if you still have a lot of weight to lose in your weight loss journey, but you also don’t want to get the surgery done if you can’t commit to a healthy lifestyle. If you experience weight gain, you’ll likely regain fat in your stomach area. Pregnancy and childbirth are other reasons to hold off; pregnancies often change the final result. You may also find that, after you have children, you have a broader goal; this is a great time to explore costs and options. A mommy makeover may be something you want to consider; we offer it as well!

"Full tummy tuck with lipo 2 weeks ago and couldn't be happier! Dr. Breslow is a truly gifted plastic surgeon and my experience with both him and his team has been spectacular. First, his education and background are top-notch. Second, he has a very thoughtful and honest demeanor and I felt very comfortable during the consultation. Third, his office staff and team are professional, friendly and very responsive."

– Laura C., Satisfied Tummy Tuck Patient

Before and After

Tummy Tuck Surgery

A Seamless Transition

Tummy Tuck Recovery

You’ll receive routine follow-up care to monitor your abdominoplasty recovery. Your tummy tuck recovery is probably the most important part of your tummy tuck procedure. That’s when you need to rest to help the healing process and take care of yourself in order to heal from your surgery and finally see the results you’ve been waiting for. We will provide a complete list of post-op instructions to follow closely to support your recovery and check your healing at follow-up visits.

Many tummy tuck patients often feel nervous in the days and weeks after their tummy tuck due to the swelling, bruising, and discomfort caused by the tummy tuck/abdominoplasty. Concerns and questions may arise, adding unnecessary stress that could actually delay recovery.

Our primary concern is your safety and satisfaction: we care about you as our patient and want you to feel well cared for. This is why we schedule several follow-up appointments to closely monitor your abdominoplasty recovery and address any concerns you may have. Your first follow-up is scheduled just a day or two after your tummy tuck surgery. We then routinely follow up with patients in the weeks, months, and even a year after they’ve undergone tummy tuck surgery.

Your tummy tuck recovery: quick facts

  • Expect some soreness and to stay home for 7-10 days. Your doctor will discuss your strength and when it is appropriate for you to return to work.
  • Most swelling and bruising subside within 4-6 weeks.
  • Return to driving after 1 week.
  • Return to abdominal activity after 3 months.
  • Scars on the skin run from hip to hip, below the underwear, and around the belly button. A small vertical scar may also exist (about 1-2 inches) from the center, where most of the tension is.
  • Sutures around the belly button are removed at 10-14 days.
  • You’ll have two drains, one on either side of your abdomen, for 2-3 weeks. One drain will be removed, then 24 hours later, the second will be removed for your safety.
  • Treatments such as antibiotics and other medications are administered until the drains are removed. Be sure to take all prescribed medication on time.
  • Up to one year to see final results.
  • Get up and move to sustain blood flow, which prevents blood clots
  • No smoking

Five things to do during your recovery

  1. For about 2 weeks, you won’t have the ability to stand straight up. Always flex at the hips and take slower steps. This will reduce tension on your incisions and prevent scar widening. You may experience back pain, so be sure to use your thigh and quadriceps muscles when flexing. Do not do any heavy lifting; have a person or people do those things on your behalf, since you will be in no condition to do so.
  2. Make sure to wear your abdominal binder (a compression garment) for the recommended period of tummy tuck recovery. This is usually 6-8 weeks. Compression garments help minimize swelling and bruising in your tissues, so you can recover faster and see results sooner from your tummy tuck.
  3. Sleep in a beach chair or lounger for two weeks and then on your back for six weeks. This will promote healing and help with comfort.
  4. To minimize scarring, follow the instructions provided after the tummy tuck procedure is completed, practice good hygiene, and ensure the surrounding skin and incisions are protected from the sun. Steri-Strips and other dressings are often used; ensure they remain in place.
  5. Attend all follow-up office appointments at the designated location to ensure your recovery is monitored. Although complications from the procedure are rare, your appointments will also allow us to monitor for any abnormal developments so the issues can be addressed in a timely manner. The schedule of your follow-up visits is:
  • 1-2 days after tummy tuck surgery with a PA or nurse
  • 1 week with a surgeon
  • 1 month with a surgeon
  • 3 months with a surgeon
  • 6 months
  • One year

Tummy Tuck Results

The Reflection You've Been Waiting For

You will notice a change in your shape immediately, though the final result will be obscured by swelling for several months. As the swelling subsides and the skin sensation returns to normal, your new, firmer abdominal area will be revealed.

The results are intended to be permanent. However, significant weight gain or becoming pregnant after abdominoplasty can compromise the outcome. Maintaining a stable weight and a regular exercise routine will ensure your sleek silhouette lasts for years. While a tummy tuck scar is inevitable, Dr. Breslow places the incision where it is easily hidden by undergarments.

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Your Flat, Firm Stomach After Abdominoplasty In Paramus

Effortless Sophistication

Serving patients in Ridgewood, Allendale, Woodcliff Lake, Montvale, Saddle River, Upper Saddle River, Westwood, Ho Ho Kus, Park Ridge, Rivervale, and Old Tappan.

One of the most rewarding benefits of a tummy tuck is the confidence that comes with feeling comfortable in your body. With a firmer, flatter abdominal contour, many patients find it easier to wear the clothing they love and enjoy activities with renewed confidence.

With more than 20 years of experience serving patients throughout Bergen County, Northern New Jersey, and the New York metropolitan area, Dr. Gary Breslow and his team are known for exceptional plastic surgery care and personalized attention.

At The Breslow Center for Plastic Surgery in Paramus, NJ, we specialize in advanced body contouring procedures, combining meticulous surgical techniques with a patient centered approach to deliver natural looking results. From your initial consultation through recovery, our experienced team is committed to providing compassionate care in a welcoming, state-of-the-art practice.

If you're considering a tummy tuck and want that flat stomach you deserve, call to schedule your consultation with Dr. Breslow or fill out the contact form below.

Tummy Tuck

Frequently Asked Questions

A full tummy tuck addresses the entire abdominal area and repositions the belly button, while a mini tummy tuck focuses only on the area below the navel with a smaller incision.

No. You should be at or near your goal weight before surgery. The procedure is designed to remove skin and tighten muscle, not to be a primary weight loss tool.

Stretch marks on the skin being removed will be gone. Any stretch marks on the remaining skin may be shifted lower or tightened, but they may not be completely eliminated.

Most patients can resume light walking within days, but you must wait at least 6 to 8 weeks before engaging in strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.

Yes. Dr. Breslow is an expert at placing the incision as low as possible so that the scar is typically hidden beneath a swimsuit or underwear.