Tummy Tuck in Sarasota, FL AT SARASOTA SURGICAL ARTS

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No amount of sit-ups or ab-toning workouts can make a stomach flat when there is significant excess skin and stretched out muscles present. Diet and exercise can help tighten the skin and the muscles, but, significant excess skin will remain unchanged unless the patient undergoes a surgical procedure like a tummy tuck. Tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, provides an effective solution to excess skin and significantly improves the appearance of the abdomen.
Dr. Alberico J. Sessa, MD, DMD—a double-board-certified cosmetic and five-time “Top Doctors” honoree, personally performs every tummy tuck at Sarasota Surgical Arts. Backed by 18 years of experience and more than 25,000 successful cosmetic procedures, his record of safety and refined, natural-looking results is reflected in thousands of 5-star reviews and prestigious society badges from the ABCS, AACS, and RealSelf.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A full tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery performed to remove excess skin and fat in the abdomen while restoring separated abdominal muscles and improving the overall aesthetics of the midsection. In a tummy tuck, excess skin is removed from the abdominal area. The underlying muscles and connective tissues are sutured and the skin is then repositioned to create a flatter, more toned appearance.

Individuals with excess skin around the belly or with a weak abdominal wall often choose to have a tummy tuck. Liposuction can resolve stubborn fat in the stomach area, but it cannot address sagging skin or loose abdominal muscles.

Tummy Tuck result shown through model imagery from Sarasota surgery clinic

Tummy Tuck BEFORE
& AFTER

Before & after tummy tuck case 01
Before & after tummy tuck case 02

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Why Choose a Tummy Tuck?

Individuals with poor skin elasticity and excess skin due to weight loss often opt for the tummy tuck procedure. Connective tissues and abdominal muscles run from the ribs to the pubic area. They can get stretched and protrude after pregnancy or significant weight loss.

The tummy tuck surgery removes this loose skin and fat and tightens weak muscle tissue in the abdominal area. Individuals with stretch marks and excess skin especially in the lower belly often see significant improvement after a tummy tuck procedure. However, if stretch marks are present on the upper abdomen above the belly button, they will still be visible after having a tummy tuck. A procedure known as a reverse tummy tuck can address the upper abdomen.

Many women undergo abdominoplasty as part of a “mommy makeover.” Often, women find their overall self-confidence drops after childbirth due to excess tissue around the midsection from the significant weight gain and loss that occurs during pregnancy. A tummy tuck can boost a woman’s self-image and help her regain the confidence she had before having children. Patients routinely combine tummy tucks with other body contouring surgeries, such as a breast lift, for a comprehensive makeover.

Am I a Candidate for a Sarasota Tummy Tuck?

Good candidates for a tummy tuck are those who have excess loose skin around the abdomen. This often occurs after significant weight loss. Good candidates for a tummy tuck include both men and women.

Women who have had children and are unable to shed excess skin around their waist and lower abdomen are often great candidates for a tummy tuck. These women often have an abdominal pannus, which is the soft, loose skin that hangs down towards the pubic area.

A tummy tuck may be a good option if you have:

  • Excess skin around the belly button region
  • Weak lower abdominal wall
  • Liposuction has not been effective in improving signs of loose skin on the abdomen
  • Visible scarring from a previous C-section

Individuals who plan to lose a lot more weight, are planning to become pregnant, or have a severe chronic illness such as diabetes, IBS, or heart disease may not be good candidates for a tummy tucks. Individuals looking to have the tummy tuck procedure done should have a BMI of 30 or less.

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Free Tummy Tuck Consultation at Sarasota

Before having a tummy tuck, an initial consultation with Dr. Sessa will need to take place. During this consultation, prepare to discuss your surgical goals, any medical conditions, and current medications.

In the consultation with Dr. Sessa, he will perform a general health evaluation to determine any pre-existing conditions which could put you at risk of complications during or after surgery. He will take photographs and use special imaging software to help determine the best treatment plan.

Dr. Sessa will review any possible risks or complications of tummy tucks surgery. He will also go over the type of anesthesia used during surgery. General anesthesia is commonly used during abdominoplasty for patient safety. Patients should come to their consultation with any questions or concerns they may have so that they can get all the information they need to make a decision.

Photo showing outcome of tummy tuck done in Sarasota

Preparing for Tummy Tuck Surgery

To ensure the best possible outcome and to keep risks to a minimum, it is important to follow the surgeon’s specific preparation instructions for a tummy tuck. Before surgery, patients will need to do the following:

  • Have lab testing done and a thorough medical evaluation
  • Stop smoking, if applicable, at least 4 weeks prior to surgery
  • Avoid aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs which can increase the risk of blood clots

Some patients will need to stop taking certain medications or have adjustments to current meds. Tummy tuck surgery should always be performed by a cosmetic surgeon like Dr. Sessa to reduce the risk of complications.

Patients who plan to have the procedure performed as an outpatient surgery should arrange for someone to drive them to and from the cosmetic surgery center. Have a friend or family member stay with you at least one night after surgery, preferably longer.

Which Type of Tummy Tuck Fits Your Goals?

Below are the abdominoplasty variations that Sarasota Surgical Arts actively offers. Each tightens abdominal muscles, addresses diastasis recti, and refines overall body contouring, but the incision pattern and skin-removal zones differ.

Full / Standard Tummy Tuck

A full or standard abdominoplasty is performed when moderate-to-severe laxity exists both above and below the navel and the rectus muscles are widely separated. Dr. Sessa makes a low, hip-to-hip incision, lifts the abdominal flap, and carries out multilayer plication to restore a firm, corset-like midsection. He then trims excess skin, repositions the navel, and can add 360° liposuction for a seamless waistline transition.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini abdominoplasty targets mild laxity confined to the lower abdomen, where muscle separation is minimal and the belly button can remain undisturbed. Through a short bikini-line incision, Dr. Sessa tightens the lower rectus muscles and removes a narrow strip of loose skin, leaving a shorter scar and faster recovery than a full tuck. Patients enjoy a flatter lower belly and clothes that fit more smoothly.

Extended Tummy Tuck

If you've lost a significant amount of weight and are left with loose skin around your waist or flanks, an extended tummy tuck in Sarasota may be the answer . Dr. Sessa lengthens the incision past the hips, excises lateral rolls, and contours the upper buttock-hip junction to blend the torso and flanks. The result is a smoother silhouette from every angle and fewer “dog-ear” bulges at the incision ends.

Fleur-de-Lis Tummy Tuck

A fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty suits massive-weight-loss patients with horizontal and vertical excess that no standard incision can address. Dr. Sessa removes a vertical wedge of skin in addition to the horizontal strip, then tightens in two directions to flatten the abdomen and narrow the waist dramatically. Although a midline scar is added, the trade-off is unparalleled circumference reduction and midline definition.

Reverse Tummy Tuck

A reverse abdominoplasty corrects laxity confined to the upper abdomen while the lower belly already lies flat. Dr. Sessa hides the incision in the inframammary fold and lifts redundant upper-abdominal skin toward the breast crease, avoiding any lower-abdominal revision. This option is often paired with breast surgery, delivering one-stage rejuvenation of both the upper abdomen and chest.

Unsure which option is best? During your consultation, Dr. Sessa will map your midsection in 3-D, show simulation images, and recommend the least invasive approach to achieving your goals.

The Procedure

Before the surgery begins, general anesthesia is administered, ensuring that the patient will be asleep throughout the surgery. Dr. Sessa makes a long incision from hip to hip and removes the excess skin and fat that is causing a sagging or protruding abdomen, surgically tightens lax abdominal muscles to streamline the waist, and re-drapes the skin of the abdomen to ensure smooth, natural-looking results. In many cases, Dr. Sessa must reposition the patient’s belly button as well, to achieve the patient’s aesthetic goals.

The doctor may use liposuction techniques during a tummy tuck to remove pockets of fat and refine abdominal contours. For patients who are only seeking to improve the appearance of the lower abdomen, Dr. Sessa can perform a partial tummy tuck (also called a mini tummy tuck), which requires less surgery time, and does not affect the belly button, and reduces the length of the recovery period.

Recovering from ABDOMINOPLASTY: What to Expect

Recovering from tummy tucks surgery varies from person to person. It is important to know what recovery involves, as the type of tummy tuck you have, along with your age, health, and weight can impact recovery speed.

Immediately After Surgery

While it’s normal to want to return to your routine right after surgery, letting the body heal is absolutely crucial. Patients are driven home by a friend or family member after surgery and should spend the first night resting.

1 to 2 Days After Your Surgery

Patients will be prescribed pain medication for the first week after surgery. If drains are used, they will be left in place for a few days post-surgery. Dr. Sessa will show you how to empty and take care of the drains. An antibiotic will be given while they are still in place. During this time, patients can take a sponge bath. However, they should avoid showering for 48 hours post-operation while drainage tubes are in place.

During the first week, it is important to sleep on an incline with the knees bent at a slight angle. If possible, purchase a recliner, rent one, or borrow one from a friend in preparation for the recovery period.

Slowly walking around the house after surgery keeps the blood flowing. This helps the healing process and reduces the risk of blood clots in the legs.

1 to 2 Weeks After Surgery

It is a good idea to have someone checking in and taking care of daily tasks like cooking and cleaning for the first week after surgery. Individuals with children will need to arrange to have someone to watch over them and manage parental tasks for at least two weeks, but up to a month.

Even picking up an infant two weeks after surgery can be painful and could set healing back. It is best to have someone else handle any chores or mildly strenuous work for a few weeks.

2 to 4 Weeks After Surgery:

Most patients who work sedentary jobs resume work two weeks after surgery. Those with physically demanding or standing jobs should wait a month before returning to work. Swelling is normal even after 2 to 4 weeks. Limit salt intake, drink plenty of water, and get plenty of rest to minimize the swelling.

Maintaining a proper diet and the doctor recommends some very mild form of exercise during this time.

Patients wear a compression garment for weeks and sometimes months after surgery to aid in proper healing and body contouring.

What Are the Possible Side Effects or Risks of Abdominoplasty?

As with any surgery, abdominoplasty comes with risks. These include anesthesia complications, bleeding, numbness, infection, fluid accumulation, unfavorable scarring, delayed healing, or a poor cosmetic outcome. Patients who work with reputable cosmetic surgeons and follow pre and post-operative instructions help minimize their risk of complications.

Why Should I Choose Dr. Sessa to Perform My Tummy Tuck at Sarasota?

Once you’ve decided to move forward with abdominoplasty, it’s time to select a surgeon. This is a crucial step in the process and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Potential candidates should look to experienced cosmetic surgeons with past results in line with what they want to achieve.

Dr. Alberico Sessa, M.D., a member of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, is focused on providing excellent care and the best results for his patients. His patient satisfaction rate is exceptionally high. He is a three-time Patient’s Choice Award winner.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • When can I exercise after a tummy tuck?

    A tummy tuck is a major procedure that requires several weeks of recovery time. Patients will need to avoid strenuous exercise for about 4-6 weeks on average, although individual healing times vary.

  • What happens if I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?

    Patients seek a tummy tuck procedure to create a flatter, tighter midsection. Ideally, patients should wait until they are done having children. This ensures future pregnancies do not affect the results of the procedure. It is not unsafe to become pregnant after a tummy tuck. Though, the results may disappear as the skin and muscles stretch again.

  • What type of results can I expect from a tummy tuck?

    The tummy tuck procedure allows patients to achieve a dramatic transformation of the abdominal region. Patients who undergo tummy tuck for a drooping or protruding abdomen emerge with a trimmer, tighter midsection that is in better proportion with the rest of their body.

  • Can I combine tummy tuck surgery with other cosmetic surgeries and procedures?

    Yes, the surgeon may recommend it. Patients often combine a tummy tuck with other cosmetic procedures, such as a breast lift, liposuction, or thigh lift. These can further rejuvenate areas of the body affected by aging, pregnancy, or weight gain. In some cases, Dr. Sessa will recommend a combination procedure that includes a tummy tuck called a lower body lift. In the case of a fleur-de-lis tummy tuck, it is also possible to perform a breast lift at the same time.

  • Can a tummy tuck cause stomach issues?

    Tummy tuck can trigger temporary bloating or tightness which is normal, but lasting digestive problems are rare when an experienced, board-certified surgeon performs surgery.

  • What should I eat before and after a tummy tuck?

    Stick to a healing-friendly diet: Focus on lean protein, leafy vegetables, fruit, whole grains, plenty of water, and low-sodium meals; avoid nicotine, alcohol, and heavily processed foods to support healing.

  • How much does a tummy tuck cost in Sarasota, FL?

    At Sarasota Surgical Arts, full tummy tuck procedures typically start between $8,500 and $10,500. Exact pricing depends on your needs, and you’ll receive a personalized quote during your consultation.

  • Do I need liposuction with my tummy tuck?

    Only if excess abdominal or flank fat would prevent a smooth contour; Dr. Sessa will recommend it when it meaningfully improves results.

  • Will I have visible scars after a tummy tuck?

    Yes, but the incision is placed low enough to hide under most underwear or swimwear, and it typically fades to a thin, skin-colored line within 12–18 months when you follow proper scar-care instructions.

The Best Abdominoplasty In Sarasota By Dr. Alberico Sessa

Dr. Alberico J. Sessa, MD, is a renowned cosmetic surgeon focused on providing exceptional patient care and delivering incredible results. Dr. Sessa and his dedicated staff at Sarasota Surgical Arts welcome patients seeking tummy tucks surgery who are ready to restore their confidence and get a trim and beautiful tummy. Those interested in abdominoplasty can schedule a consultation at his Sarasota, FL, cosmetic surgery center to discuss the procedure.

If you live in Sarasota, FL, and are interested in having tummy tuck surgery, contact our cosmetic surgery center to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Sessa. Call our office at 941-923-1736 and speak with our friendly staff. We look forward to working with you to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

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