A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a major surgical procedure that removes excess fat and skin from the middle and lower abdomen and tightens the abdominal wall muscles for a flatter, more youthful abdomen. Dr. Fred Coville specializes in combining this with liposuction, typically using Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL) to enhance results efficiently and safely. This approach not only reduces fat but also sculpts areas like the back, waist, and buttocks for a balanced torso shape.
Many classic abdominoplasties can create a flat but “boxy” waistline. After performing this procedure on hundreds of patients, Dr. Fred Coville developed a particular technique that creates a much more shapely appearance than older traditional methods. By combining circumferential liposuction, also called Lipo 360, with his unique Cornerstone Cinch Stitch ™, which tightens not only the big abdominal muscles in the midline but also brings the outer external oblique muscles inward, thereby narrowing the waistline. Dr. Coville’s meticulous technique shapes and tightens abdominal muscles to create a defined, hourglass figure. No other technique can deliver quite the same waistline.
During your consultation at our Linwood or Toms River, NJ locations, Dr. Coville will discuss the procedure details tailored to your body, ensuring optimal outcomes that enhance your profile and confidence, both in clothing and on the beach.
See firsthand the impact on body confidence and overall appearance.
The procedure is ideal for women post-pregnancy, individuals who have lost significant weight, or older patients with decreased skin elasticity. It’s crucial to be in good overall health before surgery, and if you’re planning to lose more weight, it’s best to achieve your target beforehand to optimize results.
Dr. Fred Coville emphasizes realistic expectations and individualized care. He understands the diverse nature of beauty and tailors each tummy tuck procedure to enhance your natural contours rather than conforming to an unrealistic ideal.
For women considering future pregnancies, it’s advisable to wait until after childbirth, as pregnancy can affect the tightened abdominal muscles. Dr. Coville also offers abdominoplsty as part of a comprehensive mommy makeover for those seeking to reclaim their pre-baby body.
Dr. Coville performs tummy tucks at accredited surgical centers in Toms River and Linwood, NJ. Depending on your preferences and medical considerations, your procedure may be conducted under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia for optimal comfort and safety. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect during your procedure.
Step |
Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | Complete abdominoplasty can take two to four hours, depending on the extent of work being performed. Additional sculpting of the back and buttocks will increase the time of surgery.. |
| Incisions | Most commonly, an incision is made just above the pubic area, kept as low as possible for minimal visibility when wearing a bathing suit. A second, optional incision may be made to free the navel from surrounding tissue. |
| Partial Abdominoplasty | For partial abdominoplasty, the pubic incision is shorter, and the navel may not need to be moved. However, it might be pulled in a slightly lower position as the skin is tightened and sutured. |
| Separation and Lifting of Skin | The skin is separated from the abdominal wall and lifted to reveal the abdominal muscles. |
| Tightening Muscles | The abdominal muscles are pulled together and stitched into a new position, providing a firmer, flatter abdominal wall and a narrower waistline. |
| Customization of Waist | Dr. Coville customizes the waist by tailoring the external oblique muscles with delicate suturing, the Cornerstone Cinch Stitch ™.. |
| Removal of Surplus Skin | The skin is pulled down, and any excess skin is removed. |
| Navel Adjustment | A new opening may be made for the navel, which is then sutured into place. |
| Closing Incisions and Dressings | The incisions are closed, and dressings are applied. |
| Drainage Tubes | One to three temporary drainage tubes may be inserted to drain excess fluid. These are generally removed after 72 hours but may sometimes be left longer. |
At your consultation, Dr. Coville will evaluate your health and assess both your abdominal fat deposits and your skin tone. Tell him if you smoke and if you’re taking any medications, vitamins, or other drugs. He will also cover anesthesia, the location of your Atlantic County surgery, your tummy tuck recovery time, and the costs.
We will give you specific instructions on preparing for your surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. If you smoke, you will need to stop at least four to six weeks before your surgery, and cannot resume for at least two weeks afterward. Avoid overexposure to the sun before surgery, especially to your abdomen, and do not diet excessively. Both can inhibit your ability to heal. If you develop a cold or infection of any kind, Dr. Coville will probably postpone your surgery.
You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home afterward. Someone should also be available to help you out for a day or two if needed. If you would like, we can arrange for a health aide to stay with you to help you during this period. If you are visiting us from out of town or from abroad, we will help make all the arrangements to make your recovery as comfortable as possible. Be sure to ask about our New Jersey Seaside Recovery options.
After abdominoplasty, expect initial swelling and discomfort managed with prescribed medication for pain relief. Contact Dr. Coville promptly with any concerns—no question is too small. Our South Jersey Shore team provides 24/7 contact instructions for your peace of mind. You’ll receive clear guidance on showering, dressing changes, and caring for any drains. Early mobility, like walking, aids recovery, which can vary from weeks to months. Those starting with strong abdominal muscles typically recover faster.
Returning to work can range from two weeks to a month. Light exercise supports healing, but avoid strenuous activities, especially abdominal exercises, until comfortable. Initially, scars may appear more noticeable before gradually flattening and lightening over nine months to a year. Dr. Coville specializes in tummy tuck scar management, offering treatments during healing to minimize their appearance. Regular follow-ups ensure early intervention if scars need attention, aiming for inconspicuous healing beneath clothing, including swimwear.
Dr. Coville tailors each procedure to your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals. Techniques may include liposuction to further sculpt the abdomen, strategic incision placement to minimize visible scarring, and muscle tightening to restore abdominal strength and definition. Additionally, he may suggest alternative procedures to ensure the best results are achieved.
Each of these abdominal procedures offers distinct benefits and is tailored to address different aesthetic concerns and patient needs. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Coville can help determine the most appropriate procedure based on individual goals, anatomical considerations, and desired outcomes.
Complications such as infections and blood clots, though rare, can occur but are typically manageable with prompt treatment. Dr. Coville’s expertise as one of the best tummy tuck surgeons, significantly reduces these risks, emphasizing thorough pre-operative planning and post-operative care.
Smoking increases complications and hinders healing, so it’s crucial to disclose smoking habits to Dr. Coville for tailored guidance. Following post-operative instructions diligently, including early mobilization and avoiding nicotine, enhances safety and supports optimal healing, reducing the likelihood of needing corrective procedures for tummy tuck scar improvement.
Tummy tuck costs involve several factors, including surgical fees, anesthesia, and facility expenses. These elements combine to determine the total expense, which can vary based on the specifics of your procedure and your desired results. We do offer financing options through Prosper HealthCare, Patient Fi, and Lending USA. These options provide flexibility, ensuring you can proceed confidently with your decision to enhance your appearance. Book your consultation with Dr. Coville for a detailed tummy tuck cost breakdown.
In most cases, the procedure is considered an elective cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. However, if the surgery is deemed medically necessary, such as in cases of significant abdominal hernias, insurance coverage may apply. It’s advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options.
Yes, it is possible to become pregnant after a tummy tuck. However, future pregnancies can affect the results of your surgery by stretching abdominal muscles and skin. Dr. Coville recommends completing your family planning before undergoing a tummy tuck for optimal long-term results.
Recovery time varies among individuals, but downtime typically ranges from 2 to 4 weeks. During this period, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Following Dr. Coville’s post-operative instructions, including wearing compression garments and limiting strenuous activities, will promote a smooth recovery.
While initial recovery takes several weeks, it can take up to 6 months for the full results of your abdominoplasty to become apparent as swelling subsides and tissues settle. Dr. Coville emphasizes patience during the healing process to achieve the best aesthetic outcome.
Scarring is inevitable with any surgical procedure, but Dr. Coville employs advanced techniques to minimize visible scarring. Over time, scars typically fade significantly but may remain noticeable. Following proper tummy tuck scar care instructions provided by Dr. Coville can help optimize healing.
Swelling is normal after surgery and can persist for several weeks. The majority of swelling typically resolves within the first month, but subtle swelling may persist for up to 6 months as your body adjusts to its new contours.
Liposuction targets excess fat deposits beneath the skin, sculpting and contouring specific areas. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, not only removes excess fat but also tightens ABDOMINAL muscles and removes loose skin, providing more extensive reshaping and a firmer abdominal profile.
Liposuction suits patients with localized fat deposits and good skin elasticity, seeking body contouring without skin tightening. It is ideal for those with excess skin and weakened abdominal muscles, offering comprehensive reshaping by addressing both fat and skin laxity.
Panniculectomy primarily removes excess skin and fat below the belly button, addressing medical concerns such as skin irritation and hygiene issues. The abdominoplasty goes beyond tightening abdominal muscles and removing additional skin and fat, providing both aesthetic enhancement and functional improvement.
Several non-surgical and minimally invasive alternatives to a tummy tuck exist, depending on your aesthetic goals and preferences. These may include BodyTite and Morpheus8 Body treatments. Dr. Coville will discuss these options during your consultation to determine the best approach for achieving your desired results.
Written By: Dr. Frederick Coville
Frederick A. Coville, M.D., Cornerstone Plastic Surgery’s Owner and Medical Director
Frederick A. Coville, M.D., Cornerstone Plastic Surgery’s Owner and Medical Director, has been an Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon for over 25 years. He firmly believes each of us possesses an inner “Foundational Beauty.”
As a student of beauty all his life, he calls upon his naturally artistic eye and God-given talents as a surgeon to deliver the results you demand. Dr. Fred likes to say, “It’s my job to help you find Your Beautiful!”
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Dr. Fred Coville, is a renowned Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon. He proudly extends his services to Toms River, Atlantic County, Cape May County, Ocean County, South Jersey and the greater Philadelphia area. With a distinguished career spanning 25 years, Dr. Coville is a trusted professional delivering personalized and natural-looking results. His expertise caters to clients in locations such as Atlantic City, Trenton, Toms River, Vineland, Bridgeton, Hammonton, Cape May, and Cherry Hill.
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