TUMMY TUCK

Good candidates for a tummy tuck are those who are close to their ideal body weight and in good overall health. They are preferably non-smokers and committed to maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle after the procedure. If you have cardiovascular disease or pre-existing conditions affecting circulation, be sure to mention them during your consultation so we can ensure your safety during surgery. The results of a tummy tuck are generally long-lasting; however, natural body changes, such as future weight fluctuations, can significantly affect the outcome. Dr. Elisa Bolletta strongly believes in the value of a thorough consultation to ensure you have realistic expectations about what can be achieved. If you are overweight, this procedure cannot remove deep abdominal fat. Similarly, if you have stretch marks or damaged skin, a tummy tuck may not correct these concerns; however, we may recommend a series of non-invasive treatments before and after surgery to enhance your skin’s tone and quality. Finally, it is essential to remember that this is still a surgical procedure requiring a relatively long incision, though discreetly placed so it can be hidden by swimwear or underwear. While the scar will gradually fade over time, it may take up to a year or longer to reach its final appearance.

The moment has finally come to look and feel your best, bringing renewed lightness and harmony to your body. This procedure, especially if you have lost a lot of weight, is the perfect way to complete your journey and reward your hard work and motivation. You will notice a remarkable improvement in your silhouette, both in clothing and swimwear. If you have experienced significant weight changes, you will also benefit from the strengthening of your abdominal muscles. Following a thorough consultation and careful assessment, Dr. Elisa Bolletta will recommend the most suitable procedure or combination of procedures. In some cases, if your current physical condition is not yet ideal for surgery, you may be offered a personalized plan for body contouring and slimming through advanced non-invasive and regenerative treatments. Our priority is to ensure your expectations are fully met and that you feel confident and happy with your new body for years to come.

To achieve the best possible results, it is important to be in optimal physical and mental health. Some patients may be advised to postpone surgery until they are in a better position to proceed, for example, by establishing a healthy diet and exercise routine, or waiting until after reaching a weight-loss goal. We will work with you to ensure this is the right decision at the right time. We also recommend considering your lifestyle and personal commitments, as it is essential to give yourself enough time after surgery for a healthy and safe recovery. It typically takes about 1 month to return to normal daily activities and about 2 months to resume a more active lifestyle, including the gradual return to physical activity. Swelling may take several months to fully subside, and it can take up to a year for your scar to reach its final appearance.

After surgery, some swelling and discomfort are common. The discomfort, caused by tension in the treated area, usually peaks around the second or third day and gradually eases. To help reduce swelling, you must wear a supportive compression garment continuously for 4 weeks after surgery, and then for an additional 3 weeks at night only. To further minimize swelling and tissue trauma, we recommend a course of endermology or lymphatic drainage treatments before surgery and for several months afterward. Bruising may also occur, but it typically fades within a couple of weeks, especially with the use of specialized creams. Gentle skin and scar massages, a balanced diet, proper hydration, and avoiding nicotine-based products all help accelerate healing and ensure the best possible final result, allowing you to enjoy a noticeable improvement in your quality of life.

On the day of surgery, you will be welcomed at the clinic and personally examined by Dr. Elisa Bolletta and the anesthesiologist, before being carefully prepared for the procedure. The anesthesia, tailored to the specific surgery, will ensure a painless experience. Every step is thoughtfully planned to enhance your natural harmony while respecting your unique features.

The duration of the procedure varies depending on the surgery and the amount of tissue to be reshaped. For a tummy tuck, the average duration is about 3–4 hours, depending on the complexity of the case. Everything is personalized to meet your individual needs.

At Elisà Plastic Surgery, your comfort and peace of mind are our top priorities. One of our main goals is to provide an almost entirely pain-free experience from start to finish, which is why we place great emphasis on anesthesia. Our team of anesthesiologists uses state-of-the-art techniques, including targeted local blocks, to ensure maximum comfort, reduce post-operative pain, and minimize the risks associated with general anesthesia. You will not feel any pain during the procedure. After surgery, it is normal to experience mild discomfort, swelling, or a sense of tension in the treated area, which can be easily managed with prescribed medications. Our goal is to make your entire experience as comfortable and reassuring as possible, from start to finish.

Recovery varies depending on the type of procedure and the areas treated. Most patients can resume light activities within 2–3 weeks, and return to more intense activities, including sports and heavy lifting, at around 6–8 weeks. Swelling and bruising are temporary and gradually fade, restoring a balance and a natural look to the treated area.

After the procedure, a regenerative dressing will be applied to support tissue recovery. During the first few days, you must avoid strenuous activity, excessive sweating, and sudden abdominal movements. Bruising, swelling, and temporary changes in sensation are normal and will gradually go away over time.

• Adhere closely to the guidelines provided for wound care
• Always wear the prescribed compression garment throughout the entire post-operative period
• Avoid strenuous activity and lifting heavy objects
• Maintain a balanced diet and stay well-hydrated
• Protect the treated area from impact and direct sun exposure

Once the wounds are dry, fully healed, and well-closed, the scars can be treated with specialized products containing silicone or exosomes, following the protocol prescribed by Dr. Elisa Bolletta. Following these guidelines helps speed up recovery and enhances the quality of the final result.

Every procedure carries potential risks, which in our experience are rare and manageable:

• Temporary swelling and bruising
• Seromas or small hematomas
• Temporary changes in skin sensation
• Visible or irregular scarring
• Asymmetry or the need for touch-ups

By using advanced techniques and tailoring each procedure to your individual needs, we minimize these risks.

Surgical procedures can enhance shape, proportion, and harmony, but they do not replace weight management or skincare. Every surgical plan is carefully personalized to highlight your natural beauty and refine the contours and definition of your body.

After surgery, follow-up visits are scheduled immediately post-operatively, and at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year to:

• Ensure proper wound healing
• Remove sutures around 20 days after surgery
• Monitor swelling and scarring
• Ensure the stability and harmony of the aesthetic results

Ongoing check-ups, which continue beyond the first year, are essential for your safety and long-lasting results.

Every procedure involves a highly specialized team:

• Lead surgeon Dr. Elisa Bolletta, responsible for planning and performing the procedure
• The anesthesiologist, who ensures safety and comfort during and after surgery
• Nurses and surgical assistants, who provide ongoing support to guarantee precision, safety, and comfort

Each team member works with care and dedication to guide you through a safe, calm, and rewarding experience.