Southern Plastic & Reconstructive Surgical Institute (SPRSI) offers patient-centered tummy tuck procedures designed to help you feel stronger, more confident, and more comfortable in your body. Our team combines advanced surgical techniques with a holistic approach to care, ensuring your treatment plan is tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and overall well-being.
A tummy tuck — also known as abdominoplasty — removes extra skin and tightens weakened or separated abdominal muscles. For many patients, it restores not only the appearance of the midsection but also the function and stability of the core. SPRSI focuses on creating results that look natural, balanced, and harmonious with your body shape.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is a plastic surgery procedure that:
- Removes loose or sagging abdominal skin.
- Tightens stretched or separated muscles caused by pregnancy, weight changes, or aging.
- Smooths and reshapes the midsection.
- Improves core support and comfort during daily movement.
For some patients, no amount of exercise or healthy eating can address weakened abdominal muscles or lax skin. Our abdominoplasty services in Nashville, TN offers a long-term, reliable solution that restores strength and contours the waistline.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
You may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you:
- Have excess abdominal skin that does not respond to diet or exercise.
- Experience muscle separation (diastasis recti) after pregnancy.
- Struggle with skin irritation or difficulty finding clothing that fits comfortably.
- Want a smoother, firmer, and more defined midsection.
- Are at or near a stable weight.
During your consultation, our team evaluates your anatomy, medical history, lifestyle, and goals to determine whether a tummy tuck is the right option or if another procedure may better support your needs.
Schedule Your Consultation TodayWhy Choose SPRSI for Your Tummy Tuck?
Patients choose SPRSI because they want a team that prioritizes safety, expertise, and personalized care throughout the entire process.
A Holistic Approach to Surgical Care
Long-lasting results come from addressing more than just the surgical procedure. Our approach includes guidance on nutrition, exercise, preoperative and postoperative care, and overall lifestyle habits that support healing and maintain results.
Direct Access and Timely Care
Patients can reach Dr. Brought or his staff directly when needed — without an answering service — ensuring peace of mind throughout the process. We work hard to schedule consultations quickly, often sooner than typical tummy tuck practices.
A Team-Based, Patient-First Philosophy
Your tummy tuck is performed by Dr. Brought and the SPRSI team, using techniques grounded in the latest advancements in plastic and reconstructive surgery. We focus on realistic expectations, clear communication, and care that feels supportive at every step.
What to Expect During the Tummy Tuck Process
We work closely with you to provide the transparency and compassionate, diligent care you deserve. Let's dive into the tummy tuck process:
Your Consultation
Your experience begins with a personalized, informative consultation. We discuss your goals, concerns, and desired outcomes while reviewing your anatomy and explaining the procedure in clear, patient-focused terms.
The Procedure
A tummy tuck typically involves removing excess skin and repairing the underlying muscles. Incisions are strategically placed to minimize visibility, and every step is tailored to your individual needs. Our team ensures you understand the surgical plan and what each stage involves.
Recovery and Results
As with many procedures, you will need some time to recover after undergoing abdominoplasty. You should expect:
- Initial recovery over one to two weeks.
- Continued improvement in swelling over several months.
- Firmer, tighter, more contoured abdominal appearance.
- Long-lasting results when paired with healthy lifestyle habits.
Risks
All procedures come with some degree of risk. A few risks of abdominoplasty to keep in mind include:
- Scarring
- Blood clots
- Infections
- Bleeding
- Anesthesia complications
Our team provides detailed instructions, follow-up care, and accessible support to help you recover safely.
Is a Tummy Tuck Right for You?
A tummy tuck may be the right choice if you're looking for a solution that:
- Restores abdominal strength.
- Improves body confidence.
- Reduces excess skin from weight changes or pregnancy.
- Helps clothing fit more comfortably.
- Enhances your overall silhouette.
If abdominoplasty is not the ideal treatment for your goals, we can explore other surgical or nonsurgical options that may be more appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I prepare for a tummy tuck procedure?
Preparation focuses on four areas: medical readiness, lifestyle adjustments, home setup, and logistics. You should reach a stable weight (ideally maintained for 6–12 months), stop smoking at least 4–6 weeks before surgery, discontinue blood-thinning medications and supplements like aspirin and fish oil as directed, complete any required lab work or medical clearance, and arrange for a trusted adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24–48 hours. Setting up a recovery area at home with essentials within reach before your surgery date will make your first week significantly easier.
How long before a tummy tuck should I stop smoking?
Most surgeons recommend stopping all nicotine use — including cigarettes, vaping, and patches — at least 4–6 weeks before your procedure, and continuing to abstain through recovery. Nicotine constricts blood vessels and significantly increases your risk of poor wound healing, skin necrosis, and serious complications. Some surgeons may require a longer cessation period depending on your history.
What should I set up at home before my tummy tuck recovery?
Before surgery, prepare a recovery "nest" where you can rest comfortably with your upper body and knees slightly elevated — either a recliner or a bed with wedge pillows works well. Move daily essentials to counter height so you don't have to bend or stretch. Stock your home with loose button-front clothing, easy-to-reheat low-sodium meals, stool softeners, and any prescribed medications. Having everything within arm's reach for the first week minimizes strain on your incisions.
What medications should I avoid before a tummy tuck?
You should avoid aspirin, NSAIDs (like ibuprofen and naproxen), vitamin E, fish oil, and certain herbal supplements for at least 1–2 weeks before surgery, as these can increase bleeding risk. Always provide your surgeon with a complete list of medications and supplements at your pre-operative appointment so they can advise you specifically based on your health history.
What kind of scarring should I expect from abdominoplasty?
A tummy tuck involves a horizontal scar running low across the lower abdomen, typically hidden by bikinis, underwear, or most clothing. The scar is usually placed along natural skin creases to minimize visibility. Initially, the scar appears red or pink and may feel firm, but it typically fades significantly over 12-18 months as it matures and flattens. The final appearance depends on your skin's healing ability, genetics, and post-operative scar care. Dr. Brought uses surgical techniques designed to create the least visible scar possible, and scar-minimizing treatments can be discussed during your consultation.
How much does a tummy tuck cost?
Abdominoplasty costs vary based on the extent of the procedure (full tummy tuck vs. mini tummy tuck), your surgeon's experience, facility fees, and anesthesia. Costs are typically in the range of several thousand dollars and may be higher if combined with other procedures. Since cosmetic tummy tucks are not covered by insurance, Dr. Brought's office offers financing options and can provide a detailed quote after evaluating your specific needs during a consultation.
Who is not a good candidate for a tummy tuck?
You may not be a suitable candidate if you plan to have more children (pregnancy can reverse results), have untreated medical conditions like heart disease or diabetes, are significantly overweight (ideally you should be near your goal weight), smoke heavily and cannot quit, have unrealistic expectations, or are not in good overall health. Those with certain medical conditions or high surgical risks may need additional clearance. Dr. Brought will review your medical history and discuss whether surgery is appropriate for you.
Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?
Yes, you can become pregnant after abdominoplasty, though it's generally recommended to complete your family before the procedure, as pregnancy can stretch the abdominal muscles and skin again, potentially reversing some of the surgical results. If you do become pregnant after surgery, the tummy tuck muscles (if tightened during your procedure) may loosen somewhat, though they often retain some improvement. Many surgeons recommend waiting at least 3-6 months after surgery before attempting pregnancy to allow full healing.
Can a tummy tuck be combined with other procedures?
Yes, abdominoplasty is frequently combined with liposuction, breast surgery, body contouring procedures, or a mommy makeover (combination of tummy tuck, breast work, and body contouring). Combining procedures in one surgery reduces total anesthesia time and recovery periods compared to separate surgeries. However, combining too many procedures increases operative time and recovery demands. Dr. Brought will discuss which combinations are safest and most beneficial for your goals during your consultation.
Schedule Your Tummy Tuck Consultation in Nashville, TN
Are you looking for tummy tuck services in the Nashville area? If you're interested in seeking a smoother, firmer midsection, SPRSI is here to help. Contact Southern Plastic & Reconstructive Surgical Institute today to schedule your consultation.
Information on Other Body Procedures
- Weight Loss Surgery
- Panniculectomy
- Thigh Lift
- Liposuction
- Labiaplasty
- Fat Transfer/Grafting
- Buttocks Augmentation
- Arm Lift
- Mommy Makeover Surgery
