Online Tummy Tuck Consultation

A tummy tuck, medically termed "Abdominoplasty," is an operation designed to remove excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen, as well as tighten the abdominal muscles that have become loose and weak.

An abdominoplasty is a great option for those individuals who have the appearance of a protruding abdomen and are not able to be treated with liposuction alone. Most patients are women who have had multiple children and caused the abdominal muscles to stretch. In these cases, the muscles of the abdomen can also be tightened. This procedure is often used in combination with liposuction and or a breast lift to make up the Mommy Makeover (Wonder Woman Makeover). Men who have had weight gain or weight fluctuations and would like to get rid of the excess skin and fat may be ideal candidates for this procedure. In addition, patients should be in good physical and psychological health with realistic expectations.

Procedure Techniques

Based on the amount of excess skin and fat, some patients may be able to be treated by liposuction alone. In these cases, a "Mini" abdominoplasty may be a good option. This procedure means that less skin and fat is removed, as well as less dissection (tightening of the muscles). The same incision for a "Full" abdominoplasty is used – from hipbone to hipbone.

For patients with a significant amount of skin and fat, along with overly stretched abdominal muscles, a full abdominoplasty may be a better option. This procedure often entails the need for a new opening for the belly button as the skin is pulled down to be trimmed away. Most patients seeking this operation would benefit from a full abdominoplasty.

In order to determine which technique is most appropriate, patients must undergo a thorough examination during an initial consultation. At this time, it is important to provide a list of all medications that are taken and a full medical history.

Recovery Time

It is recommended that patients rest for the first 24 hours after surgery and start to walk as soon as possible. After approximately 5 days, most patients will engage in light activities. Be sure to refrain from strenuous activities for at least 3 to 4 weeks in order to ensure proper healing and to reduce the risk of complications.

In order to help remove excess fluid from the treated area, drains are put in place for about a week. In addition, a compression abdominal binder is worn during this time. This helps the treated area adapt to its new shape.

Most patients may be able to return to light chores and activities about a week and a half after surgery. Full activities may be resumed in approximately 3 to 4 weeks.

Results

This patient had an abdominoplasty done by another surgeon previously. She was unhappy with the result. As you can see in the "After" pictures, her result is significantly improved. Her abdomen appears more flat and smooth. The "belly button" (umbilicus) is very natural looking. Her contour and shape are excellent.

The patient below complained about the appearance of her abdomen. The muscles of her abdomen had been weakened because of pregnancy and childbirth. She also had excess skin and fat. The "After" pictures show an improved contour and reduced size of the abdomen. Notice also the natural looking appearance of her belly button.

The patient below is a typical patient who seeks an abdominoplasty. She is in her 30's and has had 2 children. She exercises and eats healthy and is in good overall shape. However, most women who have had children have stretching of the skin and muscles during pregnancy that is almost impossible to correct with exercise and diet alone. An abdominoplasty is an excellent way to remove the extra skin and fat, as well as to tighten up the underlying muscles of the abdomen. As you can see in the "After" pictures, her abdomen is much flatter, smooth, and reduced in size compared to the appearance before surgery. Also, notice the improved and natural appearance of her "belly button" in the "After" picture. Note also the removal of the majority of her stretch marks. Lastly, all scars are designed so that they are well hidden within the patient's underwear. The pictures were taken one month after surgery.

The patient below is a woman in her 40's who requested an abdominoplasty. As you can see in the "After" pictures, she has a significantly improved abdominal contour. The excess skin and fat has been removed. Also, note the natural appearance of her "belly button." The patient lives in another country and submitted these photos about 2 months after her surgery.

This is a patient who complained about the appearance of her abdomen. She had bulging of the lower abdomen and numerous stretch marks. As you can see in the "After" picture, her abdomen is flatter. Most of the stretch marks have been removed. Notice also how natural looking the belly button is.