Tummy Tuck
We often hear patients voice concerns about how difficult it is to obtain a flat stomach. This is especially true for female patients who have completed one or more pregnancies. Part of the problem may stem from what is termed "diastasis recti" or a stretching of the stomach muscle which runs from the breastbone to the pelvis. This muscle ordinarily holds in the lower abdominal contents, but with stretching from pregnancy or fat depostition becomes flaccid and less tense
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Situps and other exercises specific for the abdomen will typically only address the issue to a limiited degree. We have found many patients have benefitted from some form of tummy tuck procedure, also known as an abdominoplasty.
Traditional tummy tucks involve incisions low in the abdomen with resultant scars which are hidden within a "bikini line". This procedure is meant to address a full abdomen both above and below the navel. |
A mini-tuck of the abdomen can also be performed with a much smaller incision and scar hidden very low within the pre-pubic area. Mini-tuck surgery is carried out on the lower abdomen only, limited to the area below the navel. It is specific for the lower tummy bulge seen quite commonly in patients of all ages.
Any type of tummy tuck incorporates removal of skin and fat as necessary, as well as placement of permanent sutures to tighten the stretched abdominal muscle. Skin sutures are typically threaded beneath the surface to avoid "stretch marks", allowing for as good a scar as possible hidden low on the abdomen.
Liposuction can be carried out in selected cases in conjunction with a tummy tuck. This is especially true for a mini-tuck, as liposuction can be performed a bit more aggressively to allow for a flatter abdominal contour after surgery. The limiting factor in carrying out both procedures at the same time is the blood supply to the skin. Allowances must be made to keep |
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this blood supply intact, so liposuction as a secondary procedure 6-12 months after a tummy tuck may be in order for some patients. This can be discussed during your initial consultation where appropriate.
As with any surgery, recovery time is variable, however typically ranges between one and two weeks. Pain is well managed with standard pain medications, and a short course of antibiotic is prescribed after surgery.
In summary, a tummy tuck with or without liposuction can be tailored to fit the needs of most patients with a full abdomen. Results of a tummy tuck are usually quite impressive and, when done in conjuction with a modest excercise and diet regimen, tend to be long-lasting. If you would like to learn more, please feel free to arrange for a complimentary consultation at your convenience.
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