Atlanta Tummy Tuck
People from Marietta and throughout the metro Atlanta area come to Dr. Asaf Yalif for tummy tuck surgery at his offices in Alpharetta, Roswell, and Woodstock, GA, when they are frustrated by excess skin and stretch marks that are left after pregnancy or other significant weight loss. Loose skin and separated abdominal muscles are parts of the body that cannot be restored by diet and exercise. A tummy tuck, also called abdominoplasty, creates a flatter abdomen and reduces the appearance of stretch marks by removing the loose skin and tightening the abdominal muscles.
What Is the Cost of a Tummy Tuck in Atlanta?
The starting cost of a tummy tuck in Atlanta performed by Dr. Yalif is $8,000. That includes the surgical and anesthesia fees. Tummy tuck variations are priced slightly differently, based on the extent of the specific procedure. An extended tummy tuck starts at $9,000 and the cost of a mini tummy tuck starts at $5,800. Learn more about what’s included in the cost of tummy tuck surgery and other procedures on our pricing page.
Ideal Atlanta Tummy Tuck Candidates
Both men and women can benefit from tummy tuck surgery. People who lose a large amount of weight, either through surgery or lifestyle changes, often consider body contouring surgery such as tummy tuck. Women who have had children are probably the most common tummy tuck patients. Whatever the reason, tummy tuck candidates have one or more of these concerns:
- Loose skin on the abdomen
- Stretch marks on the abdominal skin
- A protruding belly/separated abdominal muscles
- Pubic laxity
Anyone considering elective plastic surgery should be in good overall health and a non-smoker. Smokers encounter an increased risk of complications. Even though the best candidates are near their ideal weight, patients who are overweight may still be good tummy tuck candidates. During consultations, Dr. Yalif discusses the pros and cons of undergoing body contouring surgery for patients’ specific situations.
Understanding Your Tummy Tuck Procedure
Dr. Yalif creates a customized surgical plan for each patient after his or her consultation. He explains to each patient what the procedure involves in a way that’s easily understood, and answers questions to ensure patients feel confident about their surgeries.
The procedure begins with Dr. Yalif making a horizontal incision just above the pubic area. In some cases–especially for women who have had children–the tummy tuck involves repairing and tightening stretched and separated abdominal muscles. Liposuction is often performed to remove excess fat and create a smoother contour to the flanks and surrounding areas. After removing the excess skin, Dr. Yalif repositions the belly button so that it looks more aesthetically pleasing. He then closes the incision, placing surgical drains that help remove fluid and limit the risk of complications.
In a few cases, a patient may only need a mini-tummy tuck, which Dr. Yalif calls a “skin only” tummy tuck because it won’t include repairing abdominal muscles. It is generally only suitable for patients whose concerns are limited to the area below the belly button.
Asaf Yalif M.D., F.A.C.S.
Triple Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Yalif combines the skill of a fellowship-trained plastic surgeon with a warm bedside manner that puts patients at ease from the moment they meet him. He leads a small team of dedicated professionals at our boutique practice, where each you'll be treated as a member of the Y Plastic Surgery family. Learn More
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Can a Tummy Tuck Be Combined With Other Procedures?
Pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding often result in significant physical changes to a woman’s body that can be corrected only through surgery. A tummy tuck is commonly included as part of a suite of procedures called a Mommy Makeover. Cosmetic breast surgery, including a breast lift with or without implants, can be performed during the same operation. Other areas of concern, including vaginal tightening, can be performed, as well.
What Is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
A mini tummy tuck is an option for patients whose concerns are limited to the area below the belly button. Both a full tummy tuck and mini tummy tuck tighten abdominal skin, but there are some key differences.
During a full tummy tuck, Dr. Yalif pulls down upper abdominal skin to cover the area where he removed excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen. He’s also able to repair separated abdominal muscles and creates a new belly button. The incision made during a mini tummy tuck is much shorter because the surgeon doesn’t require access to abdominal muscles and is limited to the lower abdomen.
How Long Does it Take to Recover from a Tummy Tuck?
Patients heal at their own, unique pace, but there are some general guidelines to keep in mind that can help you plan for your recovery.
- Expect to wear a special compression garment for the first week to help maintain your body’s new contours and reduce swelling.
- Do not lift anything that weighs more than 5 pounds–including small children–for at least a week or two.
- Patients typically may return to work after a week if their jobs don’t involve physical exertion, but it will likely be at least 8 weeks before they can start exercising again.
Dr. Yalif provides detailed post-operative instructions that, when closely followed, enhance the recovery process and help you heal faster. We encourage patients to call us with any questions or concerns that they may have.
Tummy Tuck FAQs
What happens if I get pregnant after my tummy tuck?
It’s safe to get pregnant after undergoing a tummy tuck, but the abdominal muscles repaired during the surgery will be undone. Additionally, your skin may stretch again, although it may not be quite as much as before the tummy tuck.
Will tummy tuck scars go away?
As a plastic surgeon, I do my best to make tummy tuck incisions that are easy to conceal and shape a belly button that appears natural. Still, the scars are permanent, but over time, they should soften and fade, hopefully becoming unnoticeable.
Is tummy tuck surgery safe?
A tummy tuck, when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, is safe. Like all surgical procedures, there are certain risks associated with general anesthesia and other factors. Complications include excess bleeding, infection, and seroma (accumulation of fluid under the skin). Seromas aren’t common, but they do occur. An asymmetrical incision is another risk. Lastly, even though surgeons tighten muscles as much as can be reasonably accomplished, they can become lax again, as can your skin with time, weight gain, or subsequent pregnancy.
How long will my tummy tuck last?
The results of a tummy tuck will last for years and years. However, the aging process continues, and the elasticity of skin and tissue declines over time. Additionally, significant weight fluctuation after the procedure can affect the result.
Dr. Yalif is a fellowship-trained and triple board-certified plastic surgeon whose personable demeanor and friendly, supportive staff earns the trust and gratitude of our patients. Use the online form to request a consultation with Dr. Yalif at one of our 3 locations, including Roswell and Woodstock, in addition to Alpharetta, which is only a short drive from midtown Atlanta. Tummy tuck patients can also call us at (404) 822-4402 to schedule an appointment.
“I had an amazing experience with Dr Yalif and his team. Dr Yalif did my tummy tuck…couldn’t be happier. If you ever want to get your tummy tuck done then he is ‘THE ONE’. He is very gentle, he takes time to explain everything, the price is amazing as well. He is awesome”
Okaselena.P, 5-star RealSelf review