Tummy Tuck in Richmond

Tummy tucks are performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Kitto will make an incision along the abdomen and separate the skin from the abdominal muscles. She will then stretch the skin away from the muscle tissue and remove excess skin. The abdominal muscle tissue will be tightened to provide a firmly contoured stomach and well-defined waistline.

Dr. Kitto customizes the operation according to the amount and location of loose skin, the condition of the abdominal wall, previous scars, and the patient’s desired outcome. A low horizontal incision is generally placed where it can be concealed beneath most underwear and swimwear. The length of the incision depends on how much skin must be removed.

When abdominal muscle separation or weakened tissue is present, Dr. Kitto may tighten the underlying abdominal wall with internal sutures. The skin is then carefully redraped, excess tissue is removed, and the belly button may be brought through a new opening in a natural position. Liposuction may be added to reduce localized fat and improve the transition between the abdomen, waist, and flanks.

Finally, Dr. Kitto will close the incisions and apply sterile surgical dressings over the sutured areas.

Your consultation with Dr. Kitto is an opportunity to discuss your concerns, preferred outcome, health history, and recovery expectations. She will examine your abdominal skin, underlying muscles, fat distribution, previous surgical scars, and overall body proportions.

Be prepared to discuss previous pregnancies, weight changes, medical conditions, medications, allergies, nicotine use, and any prior abdominal procedures. Dr. Kitto may also take measurements or clinical photographs for surgical planning.

She will explain whether you may benefit from a full or mini tummy tuck and whether liposuction should be included. You will also discuss incision placement, possible scars, preparation requirements, risks, recovery, and expected results. Your treatment recommendation will be customized to your anatomy rather than based on a standard approach.

Tummy tuck surgery is performed under general anesthesia in an appropriate surgical setting. The operation may take several hours, depending on the amount of correction required and whether liposuction or another procedure is included.

Dr. Kitto will make the planned incision, lift the abdominal skin, repair weakened or separated tissue when necessary, and remove excess skin. She may reposition the belly button during a full tummy tuck and use liposuction to refine selected areas. The incision is then carefully closed and covered with sterile dressings.

Once the procedure is completed, you will be taken to a recovery room. You will be cared for by a nurse as you slowly wake from anesthesia. You will need a responsible adult to drive you home and assist you during the initial recovery period.

First Week

We will wrap your abdomen with a compression garment to reduce swelling. Side effects may include swelling, bruising, redness, and discomfort, but these symptoms are temporary.

Temporary drains may be placed to prevent fluid buildup. You will receive instructions for incision care, medication, walking, sleeping, and drain management. Gentle walking is encouraged, but you should avoid standing fully upright if it places tension on the incision.

Week Two

Swelling and tightness remain but should gradually improve. Some patients can return to nonphysical work after approximately two weeks, although others need additional time. Continue wearing your compression garment as directed.

Weeks Three and Four

Walking and routine daily activities usually become easier. Light activity may be resumed after Dr. Kitto provides clearance, but heavy lifting and abdominal exercise should still be avoided.

Weeks Five and Six

Many patients can gradually return to more demanding activities. The incision continues strengthening, and the abdomen begins to feel more natural.

Two to Twelve Months

Residual swelling continues to resolve, and the scar gradually softens and fades. Final contour and scar maturation may take several months or longer.

Risks and Safety

Tummy tuck surgery carries risks, as does any operation performed under anesthesia. Possible complications include bleeding, infection, fluid accumulation, delayed wound healing, numbness, prolonged swelling, asymmetry, visible scarring, contour irregularities, and the need for revision surgery.

Less common but more serious risks may include tissue loss, blood clots, and heart or lung complications. Smoking and nicotine use can restrict blood flow, delay healing, and increase the risk of tissue damage.

Dr. Kitto will review the risks that apply to your health and surgical plan. Following instructions regarding medications, nicotine avoidance, compression garments, walking, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments can help support a safer recovery.

Tummy tuck results can be long-lasting when you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. The skin and tissue removed during surgery will not grow back, but future weight fluctuations, pregnancy, aging, and changes in skin elasticity can affect your abdominal contour.

Regular exercise and balanced nutrition can help maintain your results. The scar is permanent but generally becomes flatter and less noticeable as it matures. Patients planning pregnancy or substantial weight loss should discuss their timing with Dr. Kitto.

The cost of abdominoplasty in Richmond depends on the complexity of surgery, anesthesia, facility fees, incision length, muscle repair, and whether liposuction is included. Published Richmond-area estimates generally range from approximately $10,000 to $15,000 for a full tummy tuck, depending on the treatment plan.

Range is provided only for general planning and is not confirmed Kitto Plastic Surgery pricing. After examining you and developing a customized plan, the practice will provide an individualized quote. Because tummy tuck surgery is generally cosmetic, it is usually not covered by health insurance.