Planning Your Surgery – Tummy Tuck

There is neither charge nor obligation for consultations for tummy-tuck surgery. 

At your initial consultation, Dr. Bartell will evaluate your general health, determine the extent of fat deposits in your abdominal region, and carefully assess your skin tone.  He will also listen to you, focusing on your concerns and expectations.  He will then describe your alternatives, the risks and limitations of each, and show you numerous “before” and “after” photographs of previous patients. 

Dr. Bartell will work with you to recommend the procedure that is right for your individual situation and will come closest to producing the desired body contour.  He will also provide you with a firm, all-inclusive price quote for the desired procedure which will include fees for the surgery, as well as anesthesia.  Information for financing is also available.

Once the decision to undergo surgery has been made, Dr. Bartell will meet with you to perform a history and physical examination.  Be sure to inform Dr. Bartell if you have any allergies; if you’re taking any medications (prescription or over-the-counter), and if you smoke.  He will also give you prescriptions for any medications you may need before and after the surgery.  You will receive a printed set of pre- and post-operative instructions which will answer most of your questions regarding what you should do prior to your surgery date, what to have on hand at home for after your procedure, and what to do on the day of your surgery.  Dr. Bartell will review these instructions with you but it is important to read these instructions carefully on your own and keep them accessible for easy reference.

If you smoke, plan to quit at least one to two weeks before your surgery and not to resume for at least two weeks after your surgery.  You will also need to avoid overexposure to the sun before surgery, especially to your abdomen and do not go on a stringent diet, as both can inhibit your ability to heal.  If you develop a cold or infection of any kind, your surgery probably will be postponed.