Tummy Tuck in Northern Virginia
Loose, sagging skin and stubborn fat pockets in your abdomen caused by pregnancy, weight loss, age, or even genetics can be frustrating.
Often, no amount of diet or exercise can address these factors and help you get a flat belly. A tummy tuck is a contouring procedure designed to remove lax skin, repair weakened abdominal muscles, and eliminate obstinate fat to help you achieve a firmer, tighter midsection and restore your overall proportions.
While her association with McLean Plastic Surgery is new, Dr. Erica Anderson is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. Specializing in body contouring procedures, Dr. Anderson has helped many people transform their physiques and achieve their aesthetic goals with tummy tucks. With the evolution of her practice, Dr. Anderson has created a welcoming setting where she can continue helping patients by offering unsurpassed results with outstanding care.
Are you interested in learning what tummy tuck surgery can do for you? Contact us at (703) 893-1111 or complete our online form to schedule your tummy tuck consultation today! We are in McLean, VA, and proudly serve patients from Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Maryland.
Before & After Tummy Tuck
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure designed to tighten and restore a flat, smooth abdomen by removing excess fat and skin and repairing divided muscles. A tummy tuck can improve your appearance by:
- Repairing core muscles that have deteriorated, weight fluctuations, or pregnancy
- Enhancing abdominal contours for a shapelier waistline and physique
- Eliminating exercise- and diet-resistant fat and loose skin
- Improving the appearance of abdominal or pelvic scars
- Removing stretch marks
- Correcting abdominal hernias
- Increasing your confidence and self-image
- Complementing your figure by making your clothes fit better
Choosing skilled tummy tuck surgeons is crucial for achieving the desired cosmetic results.
Tummy Tuck Techniques
There is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all tummy tuck. Dr. Anderson offers advanced techniques, tailoring results to your unique anatomy and preferences. The different types of tummy tucks include:
- Abdominoplasty (full tummy tuck) removes excess tissues, tightens lax muscles, and reconstructs the abdominal wall. It often is complemented by liposuction.
- Mini abdominoplasty (mini tummy tuck) addresses the divided abdominal muscles and removes little to no skin below the navel. Depending on your anatomy, the belly button is left in place or moved slightly lower.
- Extended abdominoplasty (extended tummy tuck) requires an incision that extends to the side of the hips to remove excess skin and tissue on your sides and abdomen. It often includes liposuction for ideal contours.
- Circumferential abdominoplasty removes excess fat and skin and tightens lax muscles. It is ideal for patients who have undergone significant weight loss and have loose, hanging skin around their entire body.
- Revision abdominoplasty is for patients who have undergone a previous tummy tuck and are dissatisfied with their results or whose results have changed with age and require additional improvement.
Accompanying Procedures
Many women choose to include a tummy tuck in a mommy makeover – a combination of surgical procedures to address the bodily changes brought on by pregnancy and aging. Typically, a mommy makeover also includes breast rejuvenation, such as breast lift, breast lift with augmentation, and breast augmentation with fat transfer. You can also add liposuction or other body contouring procedures. Mommy makeovers are highly customizable to treat only the areas that cause you concern or discomfort.
Choosing Dr. Anderson as Your Northern Virginia Tummy Tuck Provider
Dr. Anderson is an experienced, board-certified female plastic surgeon who specializes in breast and body surgeries. She’s worked in academic and private settings over the last 20 years, providing outstanding results and exemplary care for her many satisfied patients. By opening her office at McLean Plastic Surgery, Dr. Anderson wants to use her knowledge and experience in a more personalized, welcoming setting.
Dr. Anderson enjoys getting to know her patients, listening to their concerns and desires, and providing results they will love for years. With an exclusive surgical focus on body procedures, Dr. Anderson’s unique specialization makes her your choice as the best tummy tuck surgeon in Northern Virginia. A personalized consultation is essential to determine individual needs and financial options, including the tummy tuck cost. Tummy tuck patients receive comprehensive support and care during their recovery process, including immediate postoperative monitoring and guidance on returning to work.
Dr. Anderson is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. She and her spouse, a cardiac surgeon, have four children and a Vizsla. She enjoys staying active with CrossFit.
Meet McLean's Breast and Body Specialist
Explore your transformative cosmetic surgery options available from board-certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Erica Anderson. As a breast and body contouring specialist, Dr. Anderson combines extensive knowledge of anatomy with her unparalleled passion for patient care. Schedule your consultation with one of the best plastic surgeons in Northern Virginia today.
Your Tummy Tuck Consultation With Dr. Anderson in McLean, VA
Patient consultations are an essential element of Dr. Anderson’s practice. During this time, she wants to get to know you to understand your goals for your tummy tuck. She encourages your input and listens to help you achieve beautiful results.
As one of the few female plastic surgeons in Northern Virginia, Dr. Anderson offers many abdominoplasty options to help you achieve your aesthetic goals. In a small, intimate office setting, Dr. Anderson will ask questions to develop a tailored surgical plan, including recommending the appropriate tummy tuck for your anatomy and lifestyle. Leading Virginia abdominoplasty surgeon Dr. Anderson welcomes questions and believes educating patients about their procedures empowers them to make informed choices.
Am I an Ideal Tummy Tuck Candidate?
Good candidates for Virginia tummy tucks want to improve their abdominal appearance and tone by addressing loose skin, sagging skin and small pockets of excess fat resulting from pregnancy, significant weight loss, genetics, or age. If you are interested in a tummy tuck, you should:
- Be at a healthy, stable body weight for six months
- Be in good physical and mental health, living a healthy lifestyle
- Be a non-smoker or be willing to quit at least six weeks before and after surgery
- Be finished childbearing
- Not have any medical conditions that impair healing
- Have a positive outlook and realistic goals
- Understand the surgical risks and benefits
Preparing for a Washington DC Tummy Tuck
You must be in good overall health before a tummy tuck. Here’s general information to help you prepare.
- Avoid weight fluctuations by sticking to a consistent exercise regimen and well-rounded diet. Eat healthy, nutritious meals with plenty of protein for an optimal recovery.
- Remain well-hydrated before and after surgery.
- Ensure you’re medically fit for surgery by seeing your primary physician for a full examination and appropriate testing, such as bloodwork or an EKG.
- Avoid medications, supplements, or vitamins that increase bleeding or bruising risks for at least two weeks before and after surgery.
- Arrange for assistance with household management or child care.
- If you currently smoke, vape, or use nicotine products, you should quit. Smoking is detrimental to your recovery, so Dr. Anderson requires patients to stop smoking at least six weeks before and after surgery.
- Prepare for recovery. Take at least two weeks off work, purchase necessary supplies, fill pain medication prescriptions, freeze meals for easy preparation, and create a clean, comfortable place to rest.
- Ask a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after your procedure.
Tummy Tuck Procedure Overview
On the day of your procedure, you’ll arrive at a fully accredited surgery center approximately an hour before your scheduled surgery. You will meet Dr. Anderson and your anesthesia provider to review your surgery details and ask any final questions you may have.
Dr. Anderson will begin your tummy tuck by performing liposuction if necessary. Then, she will create a horizontal incision across your pubic hairline and another around your belly button. Through these incisions, she will remove excess skin and fat and tighten loose or weakened abdominal muscles. After she recreates a natural navel, Dr. Anderson will close the incisions and then apply dressings and your post-operative garment. Depending on the extent of the procedure, your abdominoplasty may last for three to four hours.
Northern Virginia Tummy Tuck Recovery
Tummy tuck surgeries are typically outpatient procedures. You can go home the same day with a responsible adult to drive you. Following your tummy tuck, we’ll fit you with a compression garment to minimize swelling and support your new abdominal contours. You will need to wear this as directed for several weeks.
For several days after your procedure, your abdominal area will feel tender, uncomfortable, or numb, and may be swollen and bruised for up to three weeks. Dr. Anderson will prescribe pain medications to alleviate discomfort as you heal.
The length of your abdominoplasty recovery will depend upon the extent of the procedure. On average, patients should take one to two weeks away from work and other obligations. Dr. Anderson believes resuming your routine is crucial to the healing process. She recommends getting plenty of rest and avoiding strenuous activities, such as exercise or heavy lifting, for at least three to four weeks. You can start taking gentle walks within a week, slowly building up to more intense workouts.
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How Soon Will I See My Tummy Tuck Results?
Following tummy tuck surgery, most patients experience immediate enhancements to their overall physique. However, expect initial swelling and bruising to partially obscure your results. In three to four months, residual swelling should resolve, revealing your desired outcome.
Scarring will be most pronounced in the first few months. Dr. Anderson will recommend scar management methods to minimize their appearance. However, scars may take a year or more to mature. Thoroughly following all post-operative instructions and maintaining your healthy diet and exercise routine will help you experience long-lasting results from your McLean, VA, tummy tuck.
Partner With Dr. Anderson, Northern Virginia’s Premier Female Plastic Surgeon
As a body specialist, Dr. Anderson aims to help you achieve your desired tummy tuck results to enhance your appearance and increase your body positivity. Learn more about tummy tuck surgery in Northern Virginia by calling (703) 893-1111 or completing our online form to schedule your consultation today!
Tummy Tuck FAQs in Mclean, VA
If you are ready to be evaluated for a tummy tuck, you should be at your ideal weight and have any of your underlying health concerns addressed.
You will arrive early to the surgical center. You will meet the nurses and anesthesiologist. An IV catheter will be placed. I will mark the incision site. And you’ll go to the OR for surgery. Once I’m done, I talk with your family member or friend. You leave the facility in 1-2 hours after you’ve recovered. You will be very sleepy throughout the day.
I typically leave 1 drain after a tummy tuck. If so, it is typically removed after 1 week, at your first post op visit.
I only repair the muscle if it is physically disrupted.
Surgery will not make your abdominal muscles show. The appearance of these muscles is related to lean muscle mass and your weight.
This is not an operation for weight loss.
The sutures used in a tummy tuck are dissolvable and do not need to be removed.
A great result after a tummy tuck has a natural appearing belly button and a thin curvilinear scar that is placed well below an underwear or bikini line.
Swelling after a tummy tuck can last 3-6 months and will on some days be more obvious than others.
Yes. But your result may suffer and a revision may be necessary.
The first week is the hardest with pain and slow mobility. The second week, it improves. By the third week, most are feeling almost back to normal.
Most common issues in your recovery can be wound healing delay, minor asymmetries, fluid accumulation called a seroma.
I typically perform liposuction of the trunk with a tummy tuck to address the complete abdominal area. Additional sculpting can be added per your request.
I like patients to begin walking immediately after surgery. Activity helps prevent significant complications like venous thrombosis or pneumonia. More rigorous exercise is added as the recovery progresses. Most are back to exercising by 3-4 weeks.
You can pick your baby or toddler up after a few days. I recommend doing so from a seated position if possible. Ideally you will have help and not need to be doing much lifting.
It should feel tight. Normal movement will not cause an issue. Avoid jerky or abrupt movements though.
Yes. Your result may be compromised and a revision could be considered.
The belly button is your own skin that is attached to the underlying abdominal wall. It is just brought back out through a new skin opening.
I make an upside down “u” in the tightening abdominal skin and suture your belly button to the new location as well as the underlying fascia. I am trying to recreate the pucker of your original belly button.
The procedure takes 3-4 hours depending on if liposuction of the surrounding areas are needed and position changes happen.
First look at representative before/after photos on their website. We usually put our best results. If you like the results, meet with the surgeon. Do you like them? If you do, spend time discussing your concerns and goals. You’ll know if it is a good fit and proceed as you are comfortable.
A full tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a comprehensive surgical procedure that addresses the entire abdominal area, including the muscles, skin, and fatty tissue. This type of tummy tuck is ideal for individuals who have loose skin in both the lower and upper stomach, often resulting from significant weight loss or pregnancy. During a full tummy tuck, the plastic surgeon tightens the abdominal muscles, removes excess skin and fat, and repositions the belly button to create a natural appearance. The incision for a full tummy tuck typically runs horizontally along the lower abdomen, allowing the surgeon to access and correct diastasis recti, a separation of the abdominal muscles that can occur during pregnancy. This surgical procedure is highly effective in restoring a firm, smooth abdominal contour, significantly enhancing the patient’s overall physique and confidence.
A mini tummy tuck is a less invasive variation of the full tummy tuck, focusing on the area between the belly button and the pubic bone. This procedure involves a smaller incision and is ideal for individuals with a smaller amount of excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen. Unlike a full tummy tuck, a mini tummy tuck does not involve repositioning the belly button. However, it can still effectively tighten the abdominal muscles and remove excess skin and fat, providing a more toned and contoured lower abdomen. This option is perfect for those who do not require extensive correction but still wish to address minor issues of loose skin and muscle separation in the lower abdomen.
The cost of a tummy tuck in Northern Virginia can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of abdominoplasty, the technique used, the extent of the procedure, and the anesthesia required. It’s essential to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to get an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs and goals. While tummy tucks are generally considered cosmetic procedures and are not covered by insurance, there are exceptions. In cases where the procedure is deemed medically necessary, such as for correcting diastasis recti or hernias, some insurance plans may provide coverage. It’s crucial to discuss these possibilities with your surgeon and insurance provider to understand your options fully.
Scarring is an inevitable part of the tummy tuck procedure, but a skilled board-certified plastic surgeon will take great care to minimize and manage these scars. The incisions for a tummy tuck are typically placed in less visible areas, such as along the pubic region or through the belly button, to ensure they are easily concealed. Following the procedure, patients will receive detailed scar management instructions to promote proper healing and reduce the appearance of scars over time.
During a full tummy tuck, the belly button is often repositioned to maintain a natural look. The surgeon creates a new opening in the tightened abdominal skin and sutures the belly button into place with meticulous attention to detail. This process ensures that the belly button appears natural and harmonious with the newly contoured abdomen.
