Florida Plastic Surgery - Dr. Hamwi 
Tummy Tuck
Tummy Tuck in Sarasota, FL with Dr. Kristopher Hamwi
Tummy tuck surgery, formally known as abdominoplasty, seeks to restore and contour the midsection by removing excess skin and tightening abdominal muscles.
Whether due to aging, heredity, pregnancy, prior surgeries, or significant weight fluctuations, many patients find that their abdominal skin and muscles have stretched to what seems like a point of no return. Patients often find that they cannot alleviate this troubling condition through diet and exercise alone. However, there is a fantastic solution that can help restore a tighter, more youthful-looking midsection and self-confidence.
A tummy tuck can be performed in conjunction with liposuction to reduce unwanted fat as well. Florida Plastic Surgery and Medspa’s board-certified cosmetic plastic surgeon, Dr. Kristopher Hamwi, is highly qualified, Harvard-trained, and wholly dedicated to improving his patients’ lives through aesthetic plastic surgery.
To learn more about Sarasota tummy tuck surgery with Dr. Hamwi, please continue reading or schedule a complimentary consultation with Florida Plastic Surgery and Medspa today.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck looks to excise loose skin and pockets of excess fat, with the option of tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles as well. The results are a firmer and smoother abdominal profile.
It should also be noted that a tummy tuck is not intended to be a weight loss procedure. While it can certainly help those who are near their ideal weight to gain a more aesthetically pleasing appearance, it is not intended to stimulate weight loss. In addition to the traditional tummy tuck, another variation is the mini tummy tuck, which is a less extensive method of the procedure.
What are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck?
When performed by a surgeon with Dr. Hamwi’s training, experience, and desire for patient satisfaction, tummy tucks can provide some truly remarkable results.
The most prevalent benefits of tummy tuck surgery include:
- A sleeker, tighter midsection
- Removal of excess skin
- Improved abdominal tone
- Better posture
- Tighter skin
- Abdominal diastasis correction
- Boosted self-image and self-confidence
Why Choose Dr. Hamwi for My Tummy Tuck in Sarasota?
Dr. Hamwi has trained extensively in many forms of aesthetic surgery, and particularly, has found a specialization in tummy tucks. He has performed countless successful tummy tucks, earning him a near-perfect rating on his healthgrades profile.
In addition to his distinguished training and expertise, Dr. Hamwi is highly passionate about helping patients gain confidence through aesthetic plastic surgery. He truly believes in his work and wants every patient who walks through Florida Plastic Surgery and Medspa’s doors to know that they have an ally in him.
- Compassion
- Responsiveness
- An open line of communication
- Accommodation to your schedule
- Partnership
Very professional, honest, nice, and his bedside manner was great. This was my second procedure with him. My Tummy Tuck with Lipo looks great. It’s only day two post-op and I’m excited about my new look with swelling. I can’t wait to see my final results. Also, he has called me several times to check on me, and answer my questions. I have already started giving my family & friends referrals.
What Happens During a Tummy Tuck Procedure?
Tummy tucks are an outpatient surgery performed at an accredited surgical center under general anesthesia. The procedure will be customized for everyone to address their unique needs, but it does follow several general steps:
You will first be given anesthesia by a certified anesthesia provider. You, Dr. Hamwi, and your anesthetist will discuss the best anesthesia method for your surgery prior to coming into the surgical center. You will then be gently sedated and taken back to the operating room.
The incision is designed to address your particular anatomy, but in general it is placed horizontally from hip to hip, dipping just above the pubic hairline and around the belly button. Patients are often concerned about the shape of their belly button, so Dr. Hamwi will discuss your desired look based on your anatomy. Incisions will leave a fine scar, but this can be camouflaged with clothing easily. The shape, length, and position of the incision will be determined by the amount of excess skin and other unique procedural details.
Once the abdominal skin is lifted, the underlying weakened abdominal muscles are repaired. The abdomen’s upper skin is then pulled down toward the waist, trimmed, and the remaining skin is sutured together. Lastly, a new opening for the belly button is created.
After Dr. Hamwi has carefully completed all of the other surgical steps, he will close your incisions. You will then return to the recovery room, where we will monitor you until you awaken safely. Dr Hamwi pays special attention to how the incisions are closed to minimize the appearance of the final scars. Dr. Hamwi utilizes the Prevena system to further reduce the appearance of the scars if you desire.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for a Abdominoplasty in Sarasota?
Florida Plastic Surgery and Medspa’s primary commitment is to patient safety. Because of this, Dr. Hamwi evaluates each patient extensively before scheduling any procedure.
Dr. Hamwi generally finds that the most suitable candidates from tummy tuck surgery:
- Are in good health
- Have excess skin around the midsection
- Could reasonably benefit from this procedure
- Maintain realistic expectations
- Are at a stable weight
- Do not smoke
- Are bothered by the appearance of their abdomen
If you feel that you meet these general criteria and would like to see how this procedure can benefit you specifically, your next step is to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Hamwi!
Your Tummy Tuck Consultation with Dr. Hamwi
When you come in for a tummy tuck consultation with Dr. Hamwi, you’ll meet a friendly expert who wants nothing more than to help you achieve your goals in the safest, most precise, and most cost-effective manner. Dr. Hamwi takes pride in his dedication to helping patients pursue their aesthetic goals and is humbled to be along for their journey.
Dr. Hamwi will listen and learn your goals, allow you to voice any questions or concerns about tummy tuck surgery, and give you as much information as you need to make an informed decision on your own. When you come to Florida Plastic Surgery and Medspa, you should feel comfortable, never pressured, and empowered to regain your self-confidence. We believe that your aesthetic journey is special and can be incredibly rewarding, and we are happy to be a part of it. If you prefer an initial complimentary virtual consultation this can be arranged.
Male vs Female Tummy Tuck with Dr. Hamwi
Learn more about Tummy Tucks and more plastic surgery topics with Florida Plastic Surgery’s YouTube Channel.
Ready to get started?
Dr. Kristopher Hamwi has trained for over ten years at some of the world’s top institutions to become one of Florida’s best aesthetic plastic surgeons. Utilizing his exceptional skill, rigorous training, and genuine, caring approach, Dr. Hamwi strives for total patient satisfaction. Ready to partner with Sarasota’s leading aesthetic plastic surgeon?
How Long Does Recovery Take?
There are a few different stages of recovery. Click each box to learn more.
1-2 Weeks
2-6 Weeks
6 weeks - 6 months
Dr. Hamwi will be there to assist you during your recovery process, just as he will be before surgery. He will provide you with a comprehensive list of instructions so that you are fully prepared to manage your recovery safely and effectively. You can also reach out to Dr. Hamwi and our team at any time with questions or concerns.
Ready to Learn More?
To learn more about tummy tuck surgery, please contact Florida Plastic Surgery and MedSpa at (941) 800-2000 or fill out our online form to schedule a meeting with Dr. Hamwi today.
Tummy Tuck FAQ with Dr. Kristopher Hamwi
When I meet with prospective patients for a tummy tuck consult I want to know what aspects of their abdomen bother them? I typically try to break down an abdomen into 3 main components and look at each one individually. Those components are:
- The skin layer
- The fat layer
- The muscle layer
At the complimentary consultation we will look in the mirror together and you can show me and describe your concerns so that I can try to see things through your eyes.
It is also important to understand what the patients goals are and what worries they may have about the procedure. I will also ask patients about their daily activities and what sort of help they have at home so that we can discuss the recovery period and how to manage that.
The cost of your tummy tuck will depend on several factors, including the extent of the procedure, amount of time in the operating room, and many other factors. Our team will happily provide you with a detailed estimate after you are properly evaluated by Dr. Hamwi in consultation.
I usually tell patients that with tummy tucks the more time you have to plan the better. It is important that you have given yourself enough time and have the support to heal safely. Make sure that you have time off of work, you have help with your family and someone to help you recover. We usually also need clearance from your primary care provider and potentially some lab work so it is not uncommon to spend a month or longer getting ready for a tummy tuck.
A tummy tuck is done at a surgery center or hospital. We meet before the procedure where we will talk again and I will place surgical marks. After the operation you will go to a recovery room where you will slowly wake up and you will be monitored until it is safe for you to leave. Patients either go home with someone that can supervise them or we can arrange to have you recover with a short term nurse for the first night. While there will be some pain associated with the procedure we aim to minimize this in a number of ways.
Each procedure will be unique. That said, most tummy tucks last between two to three hours in the operating room under general anesthesia.
The short answer to when you can go back to work after a tummy tuck is two to six weeks. The amount of recovery time you need depends on several factors of your surgery. You may go home after the surgical procedure, but you will need help at home for a few days, especially if you have young children.
Many patients have drains as a way to reduce the risk of a fluid collection called a seroma. This is not always the case if the procedure is smaller but all patients who receive liposuction at the same time as their tummy tuck will have drains placed. The drains will evacuate the fluid that your body makes as it heals and they will be removed when the output is constantly 30ml or less over a 24 hour period. You will be given a chart to record to output as you recover.
It is not always necessary to repair the muscle. When you have your consultation, we will look at the condition of the muscle layer and talk about the advantages and disadvantages of treating the muscle.
That depends on how thick or thin the fat layer is on top of your muscle. The thinner the fat layer is the more your muscle architecture will show. If your fat layer is thick we can reduce this with liposuction at the time of your tummy tuck but we can’t be too aggressive or it can cause complications. Another option is to use liposuction to create some added contour to your abdomen.
While you will lose weight from the tissue that is removed, a tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure. It is important to be a healthy weight before the operation and after. Significant weight gain after a tummy tuck can have unpredictable results in terms of your shape.
If drains are placed they will need to be removed but all other sutures that are placed are designed to dissolve on their own.
Typically not. We can perform some liposuction when a tummy tuck is performed but it can increase the risks of complications so the more aggressive we are the higher the risk of a complication. Our goal is to give you a great result while keeping you safe.
Dr. Hamwi is a board certified in plastic surgery and general surgery with a specialty fellowship in aesthetic plastic surgery from Manhattan, New York. He Uses the most up to date techniques to improve outcomes and deliver amazing results. Dr. Hamwi will take the time to explain the “in’s and out’s” of this procedure and help guide you through your journey.
When choosing a tummy tuck surgeon you want to look for a board certified plastic surgeon with extensive training and experience. Look for a surgeon that listens to you and has your best interests at heart. Look for someone that has great results and talks open and honestly about what you can expect.
Aflat abdomen, a nice scar and a good looking belly button
During the operation the belly button is released from the surrounding abdominal skin. The extra skin is stretched over the belly button and a new “window” is created over the belly button to bring it back to the level of the skin. The shape of the “window” and how it is sutured in place is the key to how Dr. Hamwi gets great belly button results.
The look of the belly button is very important in getting a good result. We will use your natural belly button but create a new “home” for it where we bring it up through the skin. Some features of your natural belly button can’t be changed but often we can give you some say in the shape and size of your belly button.
Tummy tuck recovery has traditionally been compared to recovering from a c-section. That being said there have been advances in post-operative pain control and Dr. Hamwi has a system for managing post-operative pain with long acting anesthetic injections (Exparel) at the time of the operation. If you are interested in discussing this more make sure to inquire about it during your consultation. One other way to significantly reduce the pain associated with recovery is to not do abdominal muscle repair. Some patients don’t need this aspect of the procedure to get a good result.
The operation will naturally feel tight and it will take some time for the area to loosen up. In the first week of the operation you will actively try to take tension off of the incision but as time goes on you will begin to stretch the area so that it begins to feel normal.
Once you are back on your feet and feeling well it is ok to lift objects that are 10-20 lbs. You will want to observe this restriction for the first 6 weeks and then you can start increasing the weight. If you are concerned about this restriction then you can discuss it with your surgeon and it may be advisable to avoid tightening the abdominal muscle during the operation.
Light exercise can generally be started 6 weeks after your operation with some restriction in how much stress can be placed on the healing abdominal muscles.
Everyone will swell after a tummy tuck and you may look a little extra bloated for 2-3 months after the operation. The good news is that this swelling goes away. Minimizing strenuous physical activity and wearing compression will help this resolve faster so you will likely be asked to wear some sort of compression device after the operation.
While it is not ideal it is possible. We typically tell patients to hold off on having a tummy tuck until after they are done having children so that it doesn’t stretch out the tissue again. That being said I have had patients who had significant weight loss with significant hanging skin and no plans for children in the near future. In these situations we performed the tummy tuck but we did not sew the muscle layer and gave her a great result.
As with most surgeries the more mild complications tend to be more common and the more serious ones tend to be more rare. Common concerns tend to be with how the body heals and how the scars look. Dr. Hamwi uses specialized techniques to improve the appearance of the scars but your individual genetics will impact a lot of how the scars heal. More serious complications that need to be considered are medication reactions, fluid collections, bleeding, blood clots that could develop in your legs called deep vein thrombosis (DVT), injury to surrounding structures, blood flow to the skin and infections. Your surgeon will discuss the risks with you and how to help minimize them if you are a candidate for the procedure.
