Abdominoplasty aka Tummy Tuck Houston

Abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is a popular cosmetic procedure for flattening and shaping the abdomen, accomplished by removing excess fat and skin, and tightening the muscles in the abdomen. Dr. Chaudhari has been performing tummy tucks for many years. The results are excellent, and patients are thrilled with the look of a new, flatter abdomen.

CANDIDATES

The best candidates for a tummy tuck are patients in overall good health, and in good physical condition, with pockets of fat or loose skin that won’t respond to traditional diet and exercise. This procedure can also benefit older, slightly obese people whose skin has lost some of its elasticity.

Tummy tucks can also restore and tighten skin and muscles that have been stretched during pregnancy. We advise patients who plan to become pregnant again to postpone a tummy tuck until after they’re done with childbearing, since results of the procedure will likely diminish with any additional pregnancies.

The same is true for patients who are shedding extra pounds, since skin in the abdominal area typically loosens after substantial weight loss.

CUSTOMIZED TREATMENTS

We work hard to help each patient achieve the look they desire, therefore we devote time during every pre-operative consultation to learn what patients want to achieve from a tummy tuck, both for their bodies and their self-confidence. Cosmetic procedures are not one-size-fits-all, so we listen closely to provide patients with a completely customized treatment designed to address the patient’s specific goals.

PROCEDURE

Tummy tuck surgery takes approximately four hours and is performed under general anesthesia. This procedure may be performed on an in-patient or outpatient basis, depending on the complexity of the surgery and Dr. Chaudhari’s recommendation, based on the pre-operative consultation.

 

The procedure is performed using two incisions: one from hipbone to hipbone close to the pubic area, and another small incision around the navel. The skin is then separated from the abdominal muscles, and those muscles are then pulled together and stitched into place for a firmer abdomen and narrower waist. The skin is stretched down and over the newly tightened muscles, excess skin removed, and the navel is brought out through the skin in a natural position. Finally, Dr. Chaudhari will place some drains, close the incisions, and apply sterile surgical dressings over the sutured areas.

RISKS

Though rare, the risk of post-operative complications does still exist with any surgical procedure. The potential risks of abdominal surgery include infection, blood clots, and poor healing, which may require further surgery.

Patients who have had previous abdominal surgery should know that old scars could be raised, stretched or generally more noticeable after a tummy tuck. In these cases, a scar revision procedure after a tummy tuck can help minimize the appearance of unsightly scars.

RESULTS

The results of the tummy tuck are a flatter, more toned abdominal area, and patients report that they not only look younger and slimmer, but that their new look provides an extra boost of confidence as well.

The results of a tummy tuck are visible right away, and continue to improve over time. With a balanced diet and regular exercise, results are long-lasting. Scars will fade with time, leaving the stomach sleeker and more defined than ever before.

The surgical scar spans the lower abdomen from hip to hip, but Dr. Chaudhari is very careful to make the incision low enough for even a bathing suit to conceal the scar.

MINI TUMMY TICK

A Partial abdominoplasty, or mini tummy tuck, is similar to a full tummy tuck procedure and yields the same excellent results. The mini tummy tuck requires a shorter incision and the skin is only lifted to the navel, which does not have to be moved, as it does in the full procedure. This option is ideal for patients who need just a little improvement to get to their desired appearance.

If you’re interested in a tummy tuck, but not sure which procedure is right for you, contact us to schedule a tummy tuck consultation. Dr. Chaudhari will discuss with you the differences between the two procedures and help you weigh the benefits and risks to determine which procedure is best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are tummy tucks dangerous?

When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, a tummy tuck is a safe procedure. Just like withnany major surgical procedure, there is always a risk of bleeding, scarring, or infection.

Can a tummy tuck cause stomach issues?

Patients may experience nausea or constipation as a side effect of anesthesia or from taking narcotics. Since a tummy tuck procedure does not enter the abdominal cavity, it’s very unlikely to experience any intestinal issues afterward.

Can I walk after tummy tuck?

Absolutely. You will be required to start walking the day after your tummy tuck, for about 5 minutes at antime. It’s also important not to overdo it.

Can you get a tummy tuck if youre obese?

A tummy tuck is a body contouring procedure, not a weight loss solution. Because of this, ideal patients will be near or at their goal body weight. To determine if this procedure is right for you, please contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

Can you get pregnant after tummy tuck?

It is still possible to get pregnant after a tummy tuck, but individuals are advised to wait until they are done having children to undergo the procedure. Getting pregnant after a tummy tuck can stretch out the skin of the abdomen and may require a revision.

Do men get tummy tuck?

Yes. Male plastic surgery procedures are growing in popularity and tummy tucks are among the procedures that men are choosing to have.

Do you get a scar from a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck involves the creation of an incision on the lower abdomen, typically hip to hip. Once healed, this will result in a scar. However, this incision will be created below the bikini line, so it can be covered by underwear or swimwear.

Does a tummy tuck tighten muscles?

During the procedure, the abdominal muscles is usually sutured together, a process called plication, which can treat mild to moderate muscle laxity due to pregnancy or weight gain.

How do I prepare for a tummy tuck?

To prepare for a tummy tuck, you’ll want to maintain a stable weight, quit smoking if you’re a smoker, avoid blood thinners, arrange for a friend or family member to take you to and from surgery, and pick up any prescriptions you’ll need after surgery.

How long after a tummy tuck can you drink?

Following a tummy tuck, it is important to give your body time to heal. This involves avoiding activities that may impact the recovery process, including alcohol consumption. It is recommended that the patient wait at least 2 weeks before drinking alcohol after surgery.

How long do you wear a binder after surgery?

You will need to wear a compression binding garment on your abdominal area for about 6 weeks after surgery. This garment helps prevent fluid build-up and supports the new contours of your abdomen

How long will a tummy tuck last?

By maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and plenty of exercise, your tummy tuck results can last a lifetime.

How many pounds can you lose with liposuction?

The amount of fat the liposuction can safely remove varies depending on various factors. This includes the patient's individual health, the number of areas being treated, and the surgeon’s professional assessment. Generally, the limit is about 5-8 pounds of fat.

How painful is a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck shouldn’t be painful at all. At Suncoast Plastic Surgery, we use general anesthesia to ensure you’re completely comfortable throughout the procedure.

Is it easier to lose weight after a tummy tuck?

Without the excess skin on your abdominal area, physical exercise can become easier and more comfortable. Strengthening the abdominal walls can also make a positive impact on your workouts. Both of these effects can lead to increased weight loss.

What do you eat after tummy tuck?

After your tummy tuck, you’ll likely need to start on a purely liquid diet, and then as you heal, you can introduce softer foods and go up gradually from there. Dr. Chaudhari will provide detailed instructions on what to eat and when you can return to your normal diet.

What qualifies you for a tummy tuck?

Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck are adults in generally good health with realistic expectations who are struggling with excess skin and fat around their abdomen and/or have separated or weakened abdominal muscles. We also recommend good candidates be nonsmokers and not be pregnant or breastfeeding.

Will a tummy tuck make my stomach flat?

A tummy tuck can help to achieve a flatter, tighter abdomen. This is through the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdomen, as well as the tightening of the abdominal wall muscles. To maintain results, patients should maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle.