The Tummy Tuck, also known as Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty, more commonly referred to as the tummy tuck, is often the procedure of choice for getting the abdomen back in shape after pregnancy, after extreme weight loss and for those whose tummies simply don’t respond to traditional exercise and proper nutrition.
There are two general types of abdominoplasty: the mini tummy tuck and the full tummy tuck.
The mini tummy tuck is generally reserved for those who have minor contour problems and less loose skin, yet still need more correction than liposuction alone can fix. The mini tummy tuck procedure uses a short U-shaped incision which is made just above the pubic region. Excess skin is removed and the muscles are tightened which moves the belly button down slightly.
The more commonly performed full tummy tuck provides much more correction and therefore, more profound results. The procedure, which generally takes between two and five hours under general anesthesia, uses an incision which is made slightly above the pubic area from one hipbone to the other. A second incision is made to free the navel from the surrounding tissue. The skin is separated from the abdominal wall up to the ribs and lifted to expose the muscles. The muscles are tightened and sewn in place. If you have muscle separation, pulling your muscles closer together and suturing them will give a tighter look to your abdomen. The skin is stretched back across the abdomen and extra skin is removed. Your belly button is then repositioned and sutured in place. Finally, all incisions are sutured, dressings applied and temporary tubes may be inserted to drain excess fluids.
Abdominoplasty is frequently performed in combination with liposuction (especially around the sides of the stomach, hips, and thighs) to give additional contouring and enhance your final results.
While there will be permanent scars, they will be well hidden when you’re wearing clothing, and low enough to even be concealed by a swimsuit in most cases. After about nine months to a year, your scars will usually flatten and become less noticeable.
Doctors Rumsey, Burk, Scioscia and Snyder all have extensive experience in performing abdominoplasty surgery and can help you achieve truly amazing results. If you feel this procedure may be right for you, schedule your consultation today. They will take the time to discuss your expectations, and will thoroughly explain precautions, risks versus benefits of the procedure, as well as what to expect before, during and after your tummy tuck.
Abdominoplasty, more commonly referred to as the tummy tuck, is often the procedure of choice for getting the abdomen back in shape after pregnancy, after extreme weight loss and for those whose tummies simply don’t respond to traditional exercise and proper nutrition.
There are two general types of abdominoplasty: the mini tummy tuck and the full tummy tuck.
The mini tummy tuck is generally reserved for those who have minor contour problems and less loose skin, yet still need more correction than liposuction alone can fix. The mini tummy tuck procedure uses a short U-shaped incision which is made just above the pubic region. Excess skin is removed and the muscles are tightened which moves the belly button down slightly.
The more commonly performed full tummy tuck provides much more correction and therefore, more profound results. The procedure, which generally takes between two and five hours under general anesthesia, uses an incision which is made slightly above the pubic area from one hipbone to the other. A second incision is made to free the navel from the surrounding tissue. The skin is separated from the abdominal wall up to the ribs and lifted to expose the muscles. The muscles are tightened and sewn in place. If you have muscle separation, pulling your muscles closer together and suturing them will give a tighter look to your abdomen. The skin is stretched back across the abdomen and extra skin is removed. Your belly button is then repositioned and sutured in place. Finally, all incisions are sutured, dressings applied and temporary tubes may be inserted to drain excess fluids.
Abdominoplasty is frequently performed in combination with liposuction (especially around the sides of the stomach, hips, and thighs) to give additional contouring and enhance your final results.
While there will be permanent scars, they will be well hidden when you’re wearing clothing, and low enough to even be concealed by a swimsuit in most cases. After about nine months to a year, your scars will usually flatten and become less noticeable.
Doctors Rumsey, Burk, Scioscia and Snyder all have extensive experience in performing abdominoplasty surgery and can help you achieve truly amazing results. If you feel this procedure may be right for you, schedule your consultation today. They will take the time to discuss your expectations, and will thoroughly explain precautions, risks versus benefits of the procedure, as well as what to expect before, during and after your tummy tuck.
Image Courtesy of Dr. Burk's Plastic Surgery Photo Gallery
I had a tummy tuck 3 years ago and I still have a poochy pubic area. It is embarassing when I want to wear tight clothing like skirts as it is noticeable. What are my options to fix this, and which is the least costly.
ReplyDeleteDo a lot of men have the tummy tuck procedure done as well?
ReplyDeleteIt is not uncommon to have residual fullness, or "poochiness", in the pubic area after tummy tuck. The easiest solution is often liposuction of the area but in some cases additional skin excision may be required to get the best result. An examination would be needed to determine which route makes the most sense.
ReplyDeleteC. Cayce Rumsey, III, M.D.
I have lost about 120 lbs, but still need to lose about 40 lbs, how close to my goal weight do I have to be in order to have the surgery? I lost the weight on my own by diet and exercise, however I have excess skin and rolls of fat to be removed? Thanks for taking the time to answer my quetion
ReplyDeleteBecause of body changes associated with child-bearing, more women than men have tummy tuck surgery. However, men do have the surgery, particularly those that have developed skin laxity as a result of weight loss. A consultation would be needed to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for the surgery.
ReplyDeleteC. Cayce Rumsey, III, M.D.
Congratulations on the weight loss! It is very likely you will greatly benefit from a skin tightening procedure such as an abdominoplasty or lower body lift. If your goal is another 40 pounds, I would recommend scheduling a consultation when you have lost half of your remaining goal.
ReplyDeleteC. Cayce Rumsey, III, M.D.
I had a full tummy tuck 3 years ago at PVPS and could not be happier. It has totally changed the way I look and feel about myself. After having 3 children, my stomach skin was very stretched out. Although I was in great physical condition, I was unable to get a 'tight belly'. I highly recommend this procedure.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your compliments!
ReplyDeleteI had a hernia repair with a full tummy tuck in Dec 2008 at PVPS. I have two children 22 months apart and thought I would never have a flat stomach again. Thanks to PVPS and the wonderful Dr. Burk I am no longer embarassed to wear a bathing suit and have more self confidence than ever before. I have had previous surgery at PVPS and would highly recommend their work they are amazing doctors!
ReplyDelete