Tummy Tuck in Fort Myers, FL

Exert BodySculpt offers tummy tuck in Fort Myers, FL, for those seeking a more sculpted and flatter abdomen. Our expert surgeons at Exert BodySculpt are dedicated to giving patients a contoured abdomen through transformative procedures. 
A tummy tuck could be an ideal solution if you want to revitalize your abdomen after significant life events like weight loss or childbirth or if you’re focused 
on attaining a more contoured stomach.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck/abdominoplasty is a surgical operation that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area to create a smoother, firmer, and more contoured appearance. This plastic surgery often involves tightening the abdominal muscles and may also include the removal of stretch marks. Unlike other abdominal procedures, a tummy tuck is more comprehensive and addresses fat, excess skin, and lax muscle tone.

Before & After Gallery

Types of Tummy Tuck Procedures

An individual with a small amount of excess skin and fat below the navel is a suitable candidate for a mini abdominoplasty procedure, a less invasive variant of a full tummy tuck. The surgery involves a smaller incision and focuses only on the lower abdomen. Recovery time is generally quicker compared to a full tummy tuck.
The entire abdominal area above and below the navel is addressed during a full tummy tuck. The procedure involves a horizontal incision near the pubic hairline and another around the navel. It aims to remove excess skin, tighten the abdominal muscles, specifically target large areas of loose skin, and repair separated abdominal muscles. This procedure is suitable for individuals with a moderate to large amount of excess skin and fat.
Designed for individuals with significant amounts of excess skin and fat that extend to the flanks and lower back, the extended tummy tuck provides a comprehensive solution. The incision is more prolonged, often stretching around the hips, to allow for more extensive skin and fat removal. This procedure may also include muscle tightening and is usually recommended for individuals who have undergone massive weight loss.

Tummy Tuck Procedure

Dr. Tarik Husain is one of the surgeons at Exert BodySculpt, a board-certified plastic surgeon renowned for his expertise in tummy tuck/abdominoplasty procedures. Here is an in-depth look at the stages involved, from the initial tummy tuck consultation to the final steps of the abdominoplasty surgery.

Consultation

Your path to a sleeker, more defined abdomen starts with an initial consultation with Dr. Tarik Husain. In this meeting, he’ll review your medical background, discuss your aesthetic objectives, and address any concerns. Dr. Husain will thoroughly examine your abdominal region to assess the amount of extra skin, fat, and the state of your abdominal muscles. Based on this evaluation, he will suggest the tummy tuck variant that best aligns with your needs.

Anesthesia Administration & Making the Incision

The tummy tuck procedure begins with the administration of anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort and safety throughout the surgery. This is usually done through intravenous sedation or general anesthesia, based on the patient’s medical history and our surgeon’s recommendation. Once the anesthesia has taken full effect, Dr. Tarik makes an incision in the abdominal area. The length, shape, and exact location of this incision is determined by the specific kind of tummy tuck being performed, whether a mini, full, or extended version.

Lifting the Abdominal Skin & Tightening the Muscles

Following the incision, the next step involves lifting the skin of the entire abdomen to reveal the underlying muscle structure. Dr. Tarik then tightens these muscles by pulling them closer and securing them with sutures. This step is crucial for achieving a flatter, more toned abdominal profile and may also improve the patient’s overall posture.

Removing Excess Skin and Fat
& Repositioning the Belly Button

Once the muscles have been tightened, Dr. Tarik focuses on eliminating extra skin and fat cells from the abdomen while the remaining skin is re-draped and tightened. This is done through surgical excision; in some instances, additional liposuction may be employed for more refined contouring. The belly button is usually repositioned in full and extended tummy tucks to align naturally with the newly sculpted abdomen.

Closing the Incisions & Applying Dressings and Drains

To conclude the procedure, Dr. Tarik meticulously closes 
the incisions using sutures, staples, or surgical tape, depending on the specific circumstances. Sterile dressings are then applied to the incision sites to promote healing and minimize the risk 
of infection. Surgical drains may also be inserted at this stage to help remove any excess fluids that may accumulate post-surgery. These drains are generally removed within a week during one of the early post-operative appointments.

Aftercare and Results Recovery process

The post-surgical tummy tuck recovery period is a vital phase that varies from patient to patient. Right after the surgery, patients typically spend a few hours in a recovery area for close monitoring. Drain tubes may eliminate any excess fluid, and a supportive compression garment is usually worn to help minimize swelling.


Pain and discomfort are expected during the initial week but can be alleviated with prescribed pain relievers. Patients are encouraged to walk lightly to aid blood flow while avoiding strenuous activities. Between the second and fourth weeks, individuals can slowly return to some of their regular routines, emphasizing proper wound care, such as keeping the surgical site clean and dry. By reaching the 4-6 week milestone, most patients are given the green light to return to work and gradually incorporate exercise into their lives.

Long-term recovery continues over the following months, with ongoing improvements in swelling and scarring. Regular follow-up visits are crucial for tracking healing progress and making necessary adjustments. Following Dr. Tarik’s guidelines for aftercare and maintaining a balanced lifestyle are vital in optimizing the long-term results of your tummy tuck.

The Ideal

Candidate

For a Tummy Tuck Surgery

Evaluating your suitability for an abdominoplasty is essential, as the procedure is most beneficial for those who align with specific criteria rather than serving as a universal solution.

Close to Ideal Body Weight with Good Overall Health

The best candidates for a tummy tuck are those who are near their ideal body weight. Being in good health minimizes the risks associated with surgery and aids in a quicker and more effective recovery. Individuals with stable weight are more likely to maintain the surgery results over the long term. It's also beneficial if the candidate has good skin elasticity, which can enhance the final appearance.

Realistic Expectations and Commitment to Maintaining Results

Having realistic expectations is crucial for anyone considering a tummy tuck. While the surgical procedure can significantly improve the appearance of the abdomen, it's not a substitute for weight loss or a fitness regimen. Candidates should understand the limitations of the surgery and what it can realistically achieve. Moreover, a commitment to regular exercise and 
a healthy diet is crucial to preserve the results over the long term.

Non-smoker

Smoking has been shown to interfere with the body's natural healing processes and can increase the risk of complications during surgery. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, leading to poor wound healing and 
a greater risk of infection. Therefore, an ideal candidate would be a non-smoker or someone willing to quit smoking several weeks before and following the procedure to facilitate the best healing and outcomes.

Benefits of a Tummy Tuck Miami

Enhanced Comfort

Accumulated fat and excess skin can cause physical discomfort and issues like chafing and irritation. By removing this excess, a tummy tuck can make physical activities more comfortable. Whether it’s exercise, walking, or simply sitting, the absence of extra weight and skin can significantly affect your comfort level.

Improved Physical Appearance

A tummy tuck flattens and tones the abdomen, narrowing the waistline and reducing the visibility of stretch marks. This results in a smoother, flatter, and more contoured abdomen, making clothes fit better and enhancing overall silhouette. This surgical procedure is especially beneficial for individuals with drooping, stretched skin, often a byproduct of significant weight loss, including those who have undergone bariatric surgery.

Easier to Maintain Weight

Post-surgery, many patients find a renewed motivation 
to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The visible results of the tummy tuck often serve as a catalyst for sustained weight management, encouraging a balanced diet and consistent exercise regimen.

Increased Self-Confidence

The enhanced body image often leads to increased self-confidence and self-esteem, affecting various aspects of life, from social interactions to career opportunities.

Additional Benefits

Some patients also report easier breathing after muscle tightening, as the diaphragm is better supported. Moreover, the procedure can sometimes reduce stress urinary incontinence, a condition some women develop after childbirth.

Better Posture

The procedure isn’t just cosmetic; it has functional benefits as well. By tightening weakened abdominal muscles, a tummy tuck can correct posture-related issues. This muscle repair can alleviate chronic back pain and improve spinal alignment, making daily activities easier and more comfortable.

Cost of Tummy Tuck in Fort Myers, FL

This estimated cost usually covers the fees for the surgeon, anesthesia, the surgical facility, and care before and after the operation. The tummy tuck cost in Fort Myers, Florida, can range from $6,000 to $12,000. Remember that these figures are general guidelines, and the expense may vary. Various financing options are available at Exert BodySculpt to accommodate different budget needs. Consulting directly with our tummy tuck surgeon is advisable for the most accurate and personalized financial information.

Frequently Asked Questions

The longevity of tummy tuck results largely depends on your lifestyle post-surgery. The results can be enduring if you maintain a stable weight and exercise regularly. However, life events like pregnancy or significant weight gain can alter the appearance of your abdomen, potentially requiring additional procedures for maintenance.
While scarring is a natural part of the healing process, the visibility of scars can be minimized by a skilled surgeon who places incisions in less noticeable areas, such as within the bikini line or natural skin folds. As time passes and with the proper care, these scars will fade to some extent but are unlikely to disappear completely.
A tummy tuck can effectively reduce the appearance of stretch marks, particularly those on the lower abdomen where the skin is removed. However, the procedure will not affect stretch marks on other areas of the abdomen or body.
Weight gain after a tummy tuck can adversely affect the results by stretching the skin and potentially separating the tightened muscles. While minor fluctuations in weight are generally not a concern, significant weight gain can compromise the aesthetic results and may necessitate further surgical intervention for correction.
Yes, men are increasingly opting for tummy tucks to improve their abdominal appearance. Whether it’s due to significant weight loss or aging, men can face similar issues of loose skin and excess fat. A tummy tuck can help men achieve a more sculpted and toned abdomen, enhancing their physical appearance and self-confidence.
Yes, a tummy tuck can significantly improve your posture. The procedure involves tightening the abdominal muscles, which provides better support to your spine. This enhanced muscular support can lead to improved posture and may even help alleviate chronic back pain.

Combining a tummy tuck with other procedures like liposuction or breast augmentation is relatively common. However, the safety of undergoing multiple procedures depends on factors such as your medical history, overall health, and the complexity of the surgeries. Our surgeon will thoroughly evaluate you to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for combined procedures.

A full tummy tuck is a more extensive surgical approach that addresses the entire abdominal area above and below the navel. It often involves two incisions and may include muscle repair. On the other hand, a mini tummy tuck is less invasive and focuses solely on the area below the navel, usually requiring only a single incision. The decision to opt for one over the other depends on your needs and the correction required.