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Tummy Tuck

The goal of an abdominoplasty is to flatten the abdomen. The extent of the procedure will vary depending on the severity of the problem. In addition to the removal of excess fat, there is frequently the need to remove excess skin, stretch marks and tighten loose abdominal muscles (known as the rectus abdominis or "abs").

Tummy Tuck Options

There are four basic types of abdominoplasty:

1. Liposuction alone.
2. Mini abdominoplasty.
3. Classic abdominoplasty.
4. Lipoabdominoplasty.

Liposuction Alone

Liposuction alone is used in patients with excess fat but good skin and muscle tone. Two tiny incisions in the pubic hair area and one inside the naval are used. Recovery is usually uncomplicated and quick.
video real plastic surgery patient story from tummy tuck patient

Mini Abdominoplasty

Patients with limited excess skin in their lower abdomen and muscle laxity are candidates for "mini abdominoplasty." A low horizontal incision, similar to that used in a C-section, provides excess for skin removal and muscle tightening.

Classic Abdominoplasty

Classic abdominoplasty allows maximal removal of excess skin, fat and tightening of the lax "abs" along their entire length. The incision is similar to that for a mini abdominoplasty but is longer in that the outer ends curve up to the hipbones. The incision may be designed so that it is hidden by high cut swimwear. A second small incision encircles the naval. Though the scars are permanent, they usually fade within the first year of surgery.

Lipoabdominoplasty

Lipoabdominoplasty is a relatively new procedure that combines aggressive liposuction of the abdomen with many of the principles of a classic or traditional abdominoplasty. The procedure begins with liposuction of the entire abdomen. The skin below the umbilicus is excised similar to a classic abdominoplasty, although lymphatic vessels are preserved to minimize postoperative swelling and promotes a more rapid recovery from surgery. Next, limited undermining of the upper abdominal skin flap is performed, preserving many blood vessels and nerves to the abdominal wall. The rectus muscles are then plicated. Finally, the upper abdominal flap is advanced and closed with multiple layers of dissolvable sutures that minimize scar tension and postoperative scar spreading.

Advantages of Lipoabdominoplasty include:

1. Improved abdominal shape due to aggressive liposuction.
2. Lower rate of postoperative complications such as seroma.
3. Less likelihood of postoperative numbness.
4. More security for smokers and post weight loss patients.
5. Shorter scar in many patients.
6. Quicker postoperative recovery with less swelling, bruising and pain.

Dr. Parker learned the technique of Lipoabdominoplasty from his colleagues in Brazil. He has made several improvements and it is currently his procedure of choice for patients undergoing abdominoplasty.

Lipoabdominoplasty may be combined with other procedures such as liposuction of hips, back and extremities, body lifts, aesthetic breast and/or facial surgery. Lipoabdominoplasty should be delayed if future pregnancies are planned. Although pregnancy can proceed normally after surgery, the benefits of the procedure may be lost.

Tummy Tuck Surgery

Patients undergoing liposuction and mini abdominoplasty can be treated with local anesthesia and intravenous sedation. Surgery time ranges from 1 to 2 hours. Patients are discharged within one hour after surgery wearing an abdominal binder. All sutures are dissolving.

Classic abdominoplasty and Lipoabdominoplasty are performed under general anesthesia and take 2½ to 3½ hours, depending on the size of the patient. These patients are monitored overnight in our facility by a registered nurse. An abdominal binder is applied shortly after surgery and worn for approximately two weeks.
Tummy Tuck Recovery

Liposuction patients recover quickly. The abdomen is somewhat sore for the first three to four days. Ambulation is begun on the day of surgery and return to full activities within one week. Exercise may begin in two weeks.

Mini abdominoplasty, Classic abdominoplasty and Lipoabdominoplasty patients are more uncomfortable due to the muscle-tightening component of the operation. Our "pain management protocol" is quite helpful in minimizing pain. The addition of a pain pump, which slowly infuses local anesthesia into the operative area for three days, virtually eliminates pain. Patients begin walking the day after surgery and can resume normal activities within seven to ten days. Light exercise can often begin at two weeks and return to full exercise at six weeks.

 

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