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What Is a Tummy Tuck?
This surgery fixes loose skin, stubborn belly fat, or weak muscles that won’t budge with diet or exercise. It flattens your tummy and makes it firmer.
There are a few types:
- Full Tummy Tuck: For the whole belly—removes lots of skin and fat, tightens muscles from top to bottom.
- Mini Tummy Tuck: Smaller version, just for the lower belly. Shorter scar and quicker recovery.
- Extended Tummy Tuck: Handles extra skin on the sides, like hips or back—great after major weight loss.
Newer tricks make it even better:
- Endoscopic Method: Uses tiny cameras and small cuts to tighten muscles—less scarring and faster healing.
- Combo with Liposuction: Sucks out fat while tucking, for a total body reshape.
Your doctor will check your body and chat about what you want to pick the best one.
Who Should Get a Tummy Tuck?
It’s not for everyone, but perfect if:
- You’re healthy and at a steady weight.
- You have extra belly skin or fat that workouts can’t fix.
- Your abs are loose or separated (like after kids).
- You know results won’t be perfect, but you’ll look and feel better.
- You’re ready to eat healthy and stay active after.
Talk to a certified plastic surgeon to make sure it’s safe for you.
How Does the Surgery Work?
It usually takes 2-3 hours under anesthesia (you’ll be asleep). Here’s the steps:
- Doctor makes a cut low on your belly, hidden by bikini lines or underwear.
- Pulls out extra skin and fat.
- Stitches the abs tighter for a strong core.
- Stretches the leftover skin smooth and closes everything up.
- Might add drains to stop extra fluid.
You’ll have scars, but they’re small and hidden. Pros use special tricks to make them fade fast.
What Could Go Wrong? (Risks)
Like any surgery, there are small chances of issues:
- Infection or bleeding.
- Fluid buildup (seroma).
- Slow healing or uneven spots.
These are rare if you pick a board-certified surgeon and a top hospital. Follow rules to stay safe.
Top Tips for Recovery
The first week or two might hurt, swell, or bruise—that’s normal. Pain pills help a lot. Full healing takes 4-6 weeks, but final shape shows in months.
Here’s how to make it easier:
- Stick to your doctor’s after-care plan, like cleaning wounds.
- Take meds on time for pain.
- Wear a tight compression shirt to cut swelling and help shape.
- Eat healthy foods and drink water to heal faster.
- Start with easy walks, but no heavy lifting or workouts till okayed (usually 4-6 weeks).
Be patient—your new tummy will be worth it!
How Much Does It Cost in Fresno, CA?
In Fresno, a tummy tuck runs about $6,000 to $16,000. Prices change based on:
- The doc’s experience.
- Type of tuck (mini is cheaper).
- Hospital fees, anesthesia, and extras like lipo.
- Your body’s needs.
This doesn’t cover consults, tests, or follow-ups. Insurance might help if it’s for medical reasons (like after weight loss), but usually it’s cosmetic.
Book a free chat with a Fresno surgeon—they’ll give you a real quote and talk payment plans to make it doable.
Why Get It Done in Fresno?
Fresno has awesome plastic surgeons who love body fixes. You’ll find modern hospitals and personal plans just for you. Plus, it’s in the middle of California—easy to get to, with a chill vibe and supportive people. It’s a smart spot for your glow-up.
A tummy tuck is a big step toward loving your body more. Chat with a pro, weigh the pros and cons, and go for it if it feels right. You’ve got this—hello, confident you!