WHAT IS AN ABDOMINOPLASTY or TUMMY TUCK?

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a popular procedure following pregnancy or weight loss. A tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat in the abdominal area, improving your waistline and leaving you with a flatter, more toned stomach.

WHAT CAUSES ABDOMINAL LAXITY?

Pregnancy may cause permanent separation of your rectus muscles, leading to weakness of the abdominal wall that is difficult to correct with exercise and active lifestyle.

Weight fluctuations may cause stretching of the abdominal skin, which may be unable to retract back. This leads to excess or overhanging skin that may be aesthetically displeasing.

Gravity, aging process, and genetics may also all play a role in development of excess abdominal skin.

WHAT IS YOUR TREATMENT APPROACH TO ABDOMINOPLASTY?

There are different types of tummy tucks, which vary in the amount of tissue removed during the procedure.

1. Full / Traditional Tummy Tuck

Traditional tummy tuck surgery is ideal for removing excess skin and fat from the entire abdominal region, from naval downwards. The length of incision is made only as needed to remove where there is excess abdominal skin, so this varies from person to person. The resulting horizontal scar is typically kept as low as possible and can usually be hidden by undergarments.

2. Mini Tummy Tuck

If most of the excess skin or laxity is along the lower, central abdominal area, a mini tummy tuck is effective in directly addressing that area while keeping incision to a minimum. The incision line is shorter than the traditional tummy tuck, and the scar is similar to that of a C-section. There may not be a need to make an incision around your belly button.

3. Extended Tummy Tuck

The extended technique is most effective or getting rid of the overall fat on your abdomen, flanks (muffin top), and back areas. It leaves a longer scar, but can be hidden by most undergarments.

4. Circumferential Tummy Tuck

This method addresses everything the extended method does and more. It involves a surgical incision that extends completely around the waistline into the lower back and buttocks. This approach typically used after massive weight loss.

5. Reverse Tummy Tuck

This method involves removing excess abdominal skin from the upper abdominal area and leaves scars well hidden within breast crease. This technique can be combined with other breast procedures.

WHAT TYPE OF ANESTHESIA IS USED DURING ABDOMINOPLASTY?

Abdominoplasty is performed under general anesthesia and is an outpatient procedure. The procedure can take between two to three hours.

WHAT IS THE POST OPERATIVE CARE AND RECOVERY LIKE AFTER ABDOMINOPLASTY?

Dr. Chen will prescribe you antibiotics to minimize the chance of post-operative infections and pain medications to improve comfort.  Drains will be placed to help remove excess fluid and will be removed at one of your post-operative visits; certain patients may be candidates for drainless abdominoplasty. A compression garment will be worn to help your body adjust to its new contours.

Most patients take off two weeks from work, and more if they are expected to perform physical tasks on the job.

WHAT ARE THE RESULTS OF ABDOMINOPLASTY?

You will obtain a flatter, more contoured stomach and waistline.

IS ABDOMINOPLASTY RIGHT FOR ME?

• Candidates for abdominoplasty are those who have:

• Lost weight and developed excess skin

• Developed extra skin or abdominal wall laxity/weakness after childbirth

• Have other symptoms such as rashes, ulcerations, and/or irritation underneath the excess abdominal skin

YOUR CONSULTATION WITH DR. CHEN

Dr. Chen will create a personalized treatment plan after a comprehensive physical examination and a detailed discussion regarding your personal goals. A thorough medical history will also be obtained to ensure surgery is a safe option for you. Dr. Chen will discuss all surgical approaches and non-surgical options so that you can make an informed decision about what is the right choice for you.

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