What Can I Expect During a Tummy Tuck Consultation?

A tummy tuck procedure, also called abdominoplasty, is an intricate cosmetic surgery that can dramatically improve the tone and shape of the abdomen. If you have been thinking about a tummy tuck, scheduling a surgical consultation is the first step toward your new and improved midsection. The decision to have a tummy tuck procedure should not be made without due diligence. This means doing your homework and educating yourself about this procedure so you feel comfortable with your choice. 

Today, patients have decisions to make when it comes to the different styles of tummy tuck procedures. There are many questions to be answered before proceeding with this surgery, including: How do I pick the right plastic surgeon? Do I need a full tummy tuck or a mini? How long is the recovery period? During your consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon, all these questions can be answered.  

Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso is a board-certified and world-renowned plastic surgeon in Miami, FL. An expert in tummy tuck procedures, Dr. LaGrasso has helped both men and women with this fantastic abdominal-altering technique, giving them amazing results. Before undergoing a tummy tuck, there are some questions you’ll need to consider. Read below as we detail what you can expect from a tummy tuck consultation so you can make the most of your time.


Notes for discussion

Have realistic goals. Before your meeting with Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso, take time to think about what you are hoping to achieve from tummy tuck surgery. Your careful planning will pay off, as it sets the tone for reasonable and mutual expectations, ensuring there are no surprises. A tummy tuck can do a lot to improve your figure, but it still must work within the proportions of your body type.

Medications and drug allergies. Make a list of all current or past medical conditions, current medications, drug allergies, and vitamins and herbal supplements you take regularly. Your surgical success also relies heavily on your willingness to be transparent regarding the use of alcohol, tobacco, and any other drugs that could potentially affect the safety of your surgery.   

Medical history. Dr. LaGrasso will also inquire about any previous surgeries you have had. A complete medical history paints a picture that can help determine your candidacy for a tummy tuck procedure.  


Formulating a plan

Once you have been given the green light to proceed with your tummy tuck surgery, your consultation will move on to the planning stage. Miami-area surgeon Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso will detail your surgical options and recommend a customized plan that specifically targets your goals. During this time, ask questions to ensure that his vision and yours are in sync. What to expect, potential risks, and associated complications will all be covered, so you have a complete picture of possible warning signs. Also, this is your chance to voice your opinion and express your desires, minimizing any miscommunication, and talk about any other treatments you may wish to include. 

Dr. LaGrasso offers many of his tummy tuck patients the opportunity to include the new and innovative technique of VASER Hi-Def® liposuction. During this ultrasound-assisted technique, fat is suctioned from specific target areas, enhancing the visibility of lean muscles without damaging other body tissue. This ultrasound technology enables an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. LaGrasso to avoid healthy tissues or nerve endings in the abdominal area that may be at risk with traditional liposuction. When combined with a tummy tuck, VASER Hi-Def lipo gives patients far better results than if they were to have just one of the procedures. 


Questions to ask

The consultation is your opportunity to ask Dr. LaGrasso questions that will help you feel comfortable with his style, expertise, and approach. Miami-area men and women each have their unique concerns and questions. It is essential to be open and honest so you can feel confident with your choice and your surgery can be successful. Here are a few commonly asked questions:

  1. Do you have extensive experience performing tummy tucks?
  2. Am I a good fit for a tummy tuck?
  3. Which type of tummy tuck is right for my goals?
  4. Where is the surgery performed?
  5. How should I prepare for my tummy tuck procedure?
  6. Following surgery, when will I be back on my feet again?
  7. How can I maintain my results?

These questions are just a sample that can get the ball rolling for other queries you may have. The more in-depth your questions are, the more information you will receive. Feel free to ask Dr. LaGrasso for clarification on anything you still feel unsure about concerning your tummy tuck procedure.

Your initial consultation is the ideal time to share your goals with your selected plastic surgeon and determine the best style of tummy tuck for your body. Preparing ahead of time with pertinent information about yourself and the right questions will help you feel relaxed about what is ahead of you. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso will listen to your goals and determine which type of tummy tuck will best match your cosmetic desires. We invite you to schedule your tummy tuck consultation with Miami, FL, plastic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso today.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.