Awake Tummy Tuck in
Long Island, NY

At AgeFocus, we combine innovation with expertise to cater to individual needs. Led by Dr. Gargiulo, our Awake Body Procedures provide a safer, more controlled alternative for patients unable or unwilling to undergo general anesthesia. This advanced technique ensures reduced risks, faster recovery, and a more comfortable experience—all under the care of a trusted specialist.

Our expert, Dr. Juan Gargiulo, is a triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon with extensive experience in delivering aesthetically pleasing results. He has performed hundreds of successful cosmetic procedures, including tummy tucks. We believe that each of our patients should reach their aesthetic goals with the least discomfort and with fantastic results.

Table of Contents

What Is an Awake Tummy Tuck? 01
Awake Tummy Tuck Techniques 02
Awake Tummy Tuck Procedure Explained 03
Recovery After an Awake Tummy Tuck 04

Candidates for an Awake Tummy Tuck 05
Benefits of an Awake Tummy Tuck 06
Cost of an Awake Tummy Tuck 07
Best Destination for an Awake Tummy Tuck 08

What Is an Awake Tummy Tuck?

An Awake Tummy Tuck is a cosmetic surgery intended to remove excess abdominal skin and fat with the tightening of its muscles but without the administration of general anesthesia. This operation is differentiated from a traditional tummy tuck because Dr. Gargiulo administers local anesthesia. This way, they remain awake but comfortable during the surgery.

This tummy tuck consists of the removal of resistant fat deposits, in addition to the excision of redundant skin. The abdominal muscles can be tightened, especially in case of muscle separation, such as diastasis recti from pregnancy or fluctuations in weight. The main objective of this procedure is to offer a flatter and more sculpted abdomen. All without the prolonged downtime and risks associated with a traditional tummy tuck that requires general anesthesia. Since this is a less invasive technique, recovery is usually faster and less painful than with older traditional methods.

Awake Tummy Tuck
Techniques

At Age Focus, we customize the Awake Tummy Tuck surgery to meet the unique needs and goals of each patient. Here are the key techniques used:

Mini Awake Tummy Tuck

Patients who have some excess fat and skin around their lower abdomen can benefit from a Mini Tummy Tuck. Dr. Gargiulo makes a little incision above the pubic area. Then, he eliminates any extra skin as well as adipose tissue. Comparatively, this technique is gentle and gives a less noticeable change in appearance with faster post-operative recovery time. It is an appropriate surgical procedure for patients without major rectus muscle diastasis but desiring a tight abdominal wall profile.

Traditional Awake Tummy Tuck

The Traditional Awake Tummy Tuck is more appropriate for patients who have a lot of loose skin and fat around their abdomens, and it works better in such cases, too. With this technique, Dr. Gargiulo is able to eliminate excess skin not only at the front of the abdomen but also on the sides. He does this on both the lower and upper parts of the belly. In addition to that, he tightens the rectus abdominis muscles so that patients can have a naturally-looking flat tummy again. It is ideal for patients with previous pregnancies or massive weight loss requiring extensive correction procedures for a tight, flat abdomen profile.

Extended Awake Tummy Tuck

For patients who have a lot of loose skin and fat hanging on the abdomen, the Extended Awake Tummy Tuck would be most suitable. Dr. Gargiulo makes an incision that goes a little further below the waist on both sides. This way, he can eliminate all excess tissues over the whole area. The extended abdominoplasty technique is common among individuals experiencing significant weight reduction-related issues. It is also an option for those with increased skin looseness. This technique leads to a smoother and more attractive figure with an emphasis on the middle section.

GALLERY

Proof, Not Promises: See Before & After Transformations

Awake Tummy Tuck Procedure Explained

Initial Consultation and Testing

During the initial consultation, Dr. Gargiulo carefully examines the patient’s abdominal area. Besides, he analyzes their medical history and considers their desired aesthetic results. This way, he can choose an appropriate Awake Tummy Tuck technique. Then, our surgeon talks about what results can be expected and goes over the process step by step. He also provides a quote estimate and takes pictures for before-and-after comparison once the treatment has been finished.

The Surgery

Dr. Gargiulo identifies and marks the abdomen sections for treatment on surgery day. He injects local anesthesia into these areas to numb them, ensuring patient comfort. The patient receives light sedation for relaxation while staying awake. There is no general anesthesia with its greater risks and longer recovery.

Next, our surgeon completes abdominal liposuction procedures that targetspecific areas like the lower belly and flanks (“love handles”) to eliminate surplus fat. Following fat removal, he trims away any extra skin. If needed, Dr. Gargiulo may also tighten the patient’s abdominal muscles in order to help restore a firmer, more toned look.

Finally, Dr. Gargiulo uses dissolvable sutures to close incisions, which helps keep scars as inconspicuous as possible. The surgery generally takes between two and three hours — this depends on how much work needs to be done.

Recovery After an Awake Tummy Tuck

Immediate Recovery

Because local anesthesia and mild sedation are used, the majority of patients can return home on the day of their procedure. Even though they are conscious during surgery, the medications may make them feel drowsy afterward. Swelling, bruising, and some discomfort are also normal. However, any pain can be eased with tablets that our surgeon has prescribed. Apart from post-op instructions, Dr. Gargiulo provides information about how many (if any) additional appointments patients are likely to need to ensure smooth recovery.

Initial Weeks

We recommend patients wear compression garments initially to reduce swelling and help shape the abdomen. For 2-3 weeks after surgery, they should steer clear of bending, lifting heavy items, or doing intense exercise so their bodies can recuperate. To avoid stressing newly fixed tissues, they should also not put pressure on this area by sitting or lying down in certain positions. If stitches are needed, they will dissolve on their own and do not need to be taken out.

Long-Term Results

The swelling and bruising will go down within the initial weeks post-op. However, it might be 2-3 months before patients see their full results. The body heals, and the skin settles into place. Final effects can usually be appreciated after 3-6 months, once the patient’s tummy has completely recovered and is looking toner and more sculpted.

Candidates for an Awake Tummy Tuck

An Awake Tummy Tuck is a fantastic option for patients dreaming of removing excess skin or fat around the tummy. A good candidate should have:

Excess Skin and Fat

Moderate to significant excess skin or fat in the abdominal area is a key criterion for the surgery. It usually appears due to weight loss, aging, or pregnancy.

Muscle Laxity

Patients with diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles) may find it helpful to have their muscles tightened as part of the surgery.

Stable Weight

Those who want to have long-term effects from the operation should maintain a stable weight. Significant weight fluctuations can significantly alter the outcomes.

Good Health

An ideal patient should be generally healthy without any systemic medical conditions. They may affect the healing process or the possibility of administration of local anesthesia and sedation.

Non-smoking

Nicotine in any form should be avoided before and after any surgery for four consecutive weeks. It can hinder healing and create a risk of complications.

Benefits of an Awake Tummy Tuck

Minimized Recovery Time

A key benefit to the Awake Mommy Makeover is the diminished time needed for recovery. This procedure employs only local anesthesia mixed with light sedation. So, patients also evade a protracted recovery period that would occur after general anesthesia. Most women go home on the same day and get back to normal in only days. Thus, it’s excellent for a busy lady.

Minimally Invasive with Local Anesthesia

Regular tummy tucks need general anesthesia. However, the Awake Tummy Tuck uses local anesthesia and light sedation. So, patients are less likely to have problems like nausea and sluggishness afterward. There’s also a lower chance of complications overall. Patients will be awake (though relaxed) during your operation.

Faster Healing with Minimal Scarring

Compared to incisions in standard tummy tucks, those made in an Awake Tummy Tuck are tinier. Patients will have minimal scarring. On top of that, we use special stitches and state-of-the-art procedures that make any scars fade away. Some even end up invisible. And because this operation is less invasive overall, most patients find their wounds heal faster, too.

Natural-Looking Results

An Awake Tummy Tuck is a good option if patients want results that look natural and last a long time. This operation removes surplus fat and skin while also tightening the muscles underneath. It makes the tummy firmer and more youthful. Besides, it may help with stretch marks above the belly button and flab and sagging abdominal tissue. The outcome may be an enormous boost to how patients feel about themselves.

Ideal for Those with Busy Lifestyles

This procedure is an excellent choice for busy people looking to shorten their recovery period. Its natural-looking results and brief downtime make it ideal for anyone seeking youthful, toned abs. They can get back to their regular routine even sooner.

Cost of an Awake Tummy Tuck

The average cost of an Awake Tummy Tuck in Long Island, NY, typically ranges from $4,000 to $8,000. The fee covers the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, use of the operating room, and any required post-operative services. The final price tag depends on multiple factors: areas operated, whether liposuction, and treatments like muscle repair or skin removal are part of the surgery. Besides, the price may increase if patients choose some add-on surgeries, such as breast augmentation. To find out more about the procedure’s cost (and talk about individual needs or goals), patients should book a tummy tuck consultation with Dr. Gargiulo.

Age Focus Is the Best
Destination for an
Awake Tummy Tuck in
Long Island, NY

Age Focus Is the Best Destination for an Awake Tummy Tuck in Long Island, NY

At Age Focus, we offer high-quality body contouring care using cutting-edge techniques. Dr. Gargiulo and our team provide personalized treatment plans based on each patient’s needs. Because everybody is different. We perform all procedures very carefully to keep patients safe and ensure they are happy with the results. By utilizing state-of-the-art technology alongside advanced techniques, we can help attain their goals with little downtime spent post-treatment. Our aim is to be supportive partners on patients’ journey towards renewed confidence by looking as good outside as they feel inside.

Embrace the change you’ve always wanted.

Let’s Sculpt the New You.

Awake Tummy Tuck in Long Island, NY