What is a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying abdominal muscles. Performed by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Clayton Crantford at Crantford Costa Plastic Surgery + Skin Clinic in Charleston, SC, the procedure is customized to your anatomy and aesthetic goals, creating a flatter, more toned midsection.
Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck?
Good candidates for tummy tuck are those with excess abdominal skin and/or separated abdominal muscles. Common reasons include loose skin after pregnancy, excess skin following significant weight loss, or aging-related skin laxity. You should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and be committed to maintaining results through healthy lifestyle choices. During your consultation, Dr. Crantford will evaluate your individual circumstances and recommend the best approach.
What is the difference between a full and mini tummy tuck?
A full tummy tuck addresses the entire abdomen with a hip-to-hip incision, allowing for extensive skin removal, muscle repair, and navel repositioning. A mini tummy tuck focuses on the area below the navel with a shorter incision, ideal for patients with mild to moderate excess skin in the lower abdomen only. Dr. Crantford will recommend the best option based on your anatomy and goals.
Can a tummy tuck fix diastasis recti?
Yes. Diastasis recti is a separation of the abdominal muscles that often occurs during pregnancy. During a tummy tuck, Dr. Crantford can repair this separation by bringing the muscles back together, restoring core strength, improving your posture, and creating a flatter appearance. This repair is often combined with skin removal for comprehensive results.
How long does tummy tuck surgery take?
Tummy tuck surgery typically takes 3 to 4 hours, depending on the extent of skin and fat removal, degree of muscle tightening, and whether additional procedures like liposuction are performed simultaneously. Dr. Crantford will provide a specific time estimate during your pre-operative consultation.
What is recovery like after a tummy tuck?
Most patients can return to light office work and daily activities within 2 to 3 weeks. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 6 to 8 weeks. Pain is typically manageable with prescribed medications. Dr. Crantford’s Rapid Recovery Tummy Tuck program uses ERAS protocols to minimize discomfort and accelerate healing. Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how manageable their recovery is.
Will I have visible scars after a tummy tuck?
Yes, you will have a scar along the incision line. With a full tummy tuck, the scar extends from hip to hip across the lower abdomen and can usually be hidden by underwear and swimwear. With a mini tummy tuck, the scar is shorter and positioned below the bikini line. Over time, scars fade significantly. Dr. Crantford uses meticulous closure techniques to minimize scar visibility.
How long do tummy tuck results last?
Tummy tuck results are long-lasting, particularly if you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. The removed skin does not grow back. However, significant weight gain or pregnancy after surgery can affect results. Most patients enjoy their improved abdomen for many years. The procedure is designed to create lasting change to your body contour.
Can I combine a tummy tuck with liposuction?
Yes. Many patients combine tummy tuck with liposuction to address both excess skin and stubborn fat deposits, particularly in the flanks or upper abdomen. This combination can be performed during the same surgery. Dr. Crantford will recommend the best approach based on your anatomy and aesthetic goals during your consultation.
What is the cost of a tummy tuck in Charleston?
The cost of a tummy tuck varies based on several factors, including the extent of correction (full vs. mini), additional procedures, anesthesia type, and facility fees. During your consultation at Crantford Costa Plastic Surgery + Skin Clinic, Dr. Crantford will provide a detailed cost estimate. Contact us at (843) 755-6591 for a personalized quote.
When can I return to exercise after a tummy tuck?
Light walking can begin immediately after surgery. Most patients can resume light cardiovascular exercise at 6 weeks. Strenuous exercise, weightlifting, and intense core work should be avoided until 8 weeks post-operatively or until cleared by Dr. Crantford. Your body needs time to heal properly before resuming full activity. Dr. Crantford will provide detailed activity guidelines during your recovery.
Is a tummy tuck covered by insurance?
Tummy tuck is typically considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. However, if the procedure is medically necessary to repair diastasis recti that causes functional problems or if it’s part of post-bariatric body contouring, insurance may provide coverage. We recommend contacting your insurance provider directly. We also offer financing options through PatientFi and CareCredit to make your tummy tuck more affordable.