Lots of people are looking for flat and toned stomachs, but that can be easier said than done, even with diet and exercise. Whether due to aging, genetics, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations, excess skin and fat, and weakened muscles can affect how you view yourself. Why not boost your body image with a tummy tuck? Dr. Andrews can give you the results you’re looking for.
What is A Tummy Tuck?
Abdominoplasty, more commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is an effective cosmetic procedure for patients bothered by sagging skin and excess fat on their stomach area. During the surgical procedure, Dr. Andrews removes excess fat and skin and strengthens weakened and separated muscles, providing a smoother and firmer abdominal area. A tummy tuck can be combined with other procedures like breast augmentation, thigh lift, and more in advanced body contouring procedures like the mommy makeover or a full body lift.
Dr. Andrews may use different surgical techniques and incision types, depending on each patient’s individual needs and surgical goals. In general, there are two main types of tummy tuck surgery:
Full Tummy Tuck
The full tummy tuck, or traditional tummy tuck, addresses the entire abdominal area and may involve tightening the abdominal muscles. Significant amounts of hanging skin can be removed, and the belly button can be repositioned with this technique. The removal of excess skin can sometimes correct stretch marks or minimize their appearance.
Mini Tummy Tuck
The mini tummy tuck (mini abdominoplasty) only removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen, typically below the belly button. Patients with smaller amounts of loose skin and excess fat can benefit from this minimally invasive approach. Those who want to touch up the results of a tummy tuck performed many years ago can also consider this procedure.
Who Is A Good Candidate For A Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck can be the right cosmetic surgery procedure for a wide range of patients. Some of the specifications that make someone a good candidate for the tummy tuck procedure include:
- Being in generally good health
- Being at a stable weight
- Having realistic expectations
- Being a nonsmoker
- Having recently undergone substantial weight loss
- Struggling with weakened abdominal muscles after childbirth
If you’re still unsure whether you’re a good candidate for a tummy tuck, schedule a consultation with Dr. Andrews. He can talk you through the process and determine whether it’s the right procedure for you. If you are planning substantial weight loss, you should wait to receive surgery until you have achieved your weight loss goal.
DR. KAHLIL ANDREWS
Dr. Kahlil Andrews is a board-certified plastic surgeon from Los Angeles specializing in plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.
At his location in Coralville, Iowa, Dr. Andrews’ academic and technical achievements are only exceeded by his commitment to patient care. Whether they are seeking reconstructive breast surgery, outpatient injectable treatment, or a full-blown mommy makeover, Dr. Andrews gives his full attention and focus on achieving excellent patient outcomes.
MEET DR. ANDREWSThe Tummy Tuck Procedure
At the beginning of your tummy tuck procedure, general anesthesia will be administered to ensure your comfort. From there, a horizontal incision is made between the pubic bone and the belly button where the incision scar can be easily hidden. How long the incision is and the shape of it will depend on how much excess skin is being removed. Once the abdominal skin is lifted, any weakened or separated muscles in the abdominal wall will be repaired and strengthened.
A second incision will be made if excess skin needs to be removed from the upper abdomen. The skin in the upper abdomen will be pulled down and the excess skin trimmed. From there, a new opening for the belly button will be created, and then the belly button will be sutured into an appropriate position. Finally, all your incisions will be closed with sutures or skin adhesives, and you will be sent to the recovery room to wake up and begin the healing process.
Tummy Tuck Recovery
As you start your recovery, bandages will be applied over the incision sites, and you will be given a compression garment to reduce swelling and support the abdomen as you heal. A small drainage tube may also be placed under the skin to drain out any excess blood or fluid.
Before you leave, Dr. Andrews will give you instructions on how best to take care of your incisions and drains, what medications to take, and what activities to avoid. You will also schedule a follow-up appointment so Dr. Andrews can monitor your healing and remove the drainage tube. You’ll need to wear the compression garment for about six weeks. During this time, you’ll want to rest as much as possible and avoid any activities that will strain your incisions.
Tummy Tuck Results
While you may see some results immediately, it will take three to four months to see the final results. The tummy tuck scar will gradually fade until it can be easily hidden by undergarments or a bathing suit. Swelling will gradually reduce, revealing your newly tightened and improved abdominal contour. Future pregnancies and weight gain should be avoided to maintain your newly tightened tummy. A proper diet and exercise program will also ensure long-lasting results.
Schedule A Consultation
Ready to achieve the flat and well-toned abdomen you’ve always wanted? A tummy tuck may be the perfect solution. Take the first step and schedule a consultation with Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery today. Call our Coralville, IA office at (319) 220-4644 or use our online scheduling form.
