Question:
Is any fat taken out when getting a tummy tuck?

I am only 4 mos. post op (Rny open) & have lost 60 lbs. My stomach is not an "apron," but I must lift it up to wash and it is smelly, etc. I look thinner everywhere except my stomach -- I look like I am 5 mos. pregnant. I know everone is different, but will the stomach go down eventually? Does exercise really help the stomach? IS ANY FAT TAKEN OUT DURING A TUMMY TUCK? ...oops, I know we're not supposed to call it that.    — Betty Todd (posted on May 23, 2001)

May 22, 2001
I watched this surgery on Discovery Channel. A small amount appeared to be taken out. But the majority of removal was excess skin. This can add up to pounds. Once this was removed and the remaining skin was tacked in place, it was unbelievable how great she looked. This woman appeared to be 3 months pregnant with her excess skin from having babies. They showed her in a bikini after her healing period, it was just amazing. I would do it in a second. As a matter of fact, when I went for my consultation, I asked my doctor about this surgery as well. He said he does it and his fee is about $2,500. I'm saving now in case my insurance won't pay. I want to have this done since a majority of my weight is in my stomach.
   — [Anonymous]

May 23, 2001
I had the same tummy tuck and it cost about the same $2500.00. I had it before WLS so it will be interesting to see how it all pans out after 75 pounds or so
   — corpdiva2006

May 23, 2001
This $2500, is that the surgeon's fee? What about hospital or total cost of a tuck? Does anyone have an idea?
   — jeff P.

May 29, 2001
I am having a tummy tuck this Friday, June 1. My procedure is $4,900 for everything - surgeon, anesthesia, outpatient surgical facility, everything. I am in Oklahoma.
   — Judi G.

May 29, 2001
It will be in my case. I am having hernia repair and abdominoplasty with lipectomy on July 31, 2001. It probably depends on how big the apron is and whether insurance will cover it as medically necessary. Mine is huge...the surgeon will remove between 10-12 inches of excess skin.
   — [Deactivated Member]