Tummy Tuck

 

 

Is a Tummy Tuck Right for You?

While tummy tucks are often associated with women post-pregnancy, this procedure can also benefit men and women who have lost a significant amount of weight and want to address excess abdominal skin and stretch marks. Abdominoplasty can be ideal for patients in the Lubbock, West Texas, Midland, New Mexico areas who are physically fit but feel self-conscious about wearing swimsuits or taking off their shirts.

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A suitable tummy tuck candidate is usually between 30 and 55 years old and:

• Is close to their desired body weight

• Wants specific areas of loose skin and fat removed

• Has maintained a stable weight for at least 6 months

• Has good skin tone and elasticity

• Has realistic expectations

• Is emotionally stable

• Understands the risks associated with abdominoplasty

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These factors can be discussed during your consultation, where Dr. Boonipat will evaluate your health, check for fat deposits in the abdomen, and assess skin tone.

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Although body contouring surgery is not for weight loss, it can help target stubborn areas once excess weight has been shed.

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How Is a Tummy Tuck Performed?

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A tummy tuck typically involves an incision above the pubic area extending from hip to hip, as well as a smaller one around the bellybutton.

Dr. Boonipat then separates skin and fat from the abdominal wall, removing excess tissue. Often, the abdominal muscles are tightened, and the bellybutton is reshaped for a natural appearance. This procedure can also help reduce stretch marks and C-section scars.

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Tummy Tuck Combined With SAFELipo360®

Most patients at FacePlus Plastic Surgery opt for SAFELipo360, which offers enhanced results compared to either standalone liposuction or abdominoplasty. This approach, known for its effectiveness nationally and internationally, addresses excess skin and fat while repairing separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti). It is generally recommended for patients with diastasis recti who do not plan to have more children.

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The SAFELipo technique allows for effective fat removal without disrupting connective tissues or blood vessels, issues often encountered with other forms of liposuction.

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Tummy Tuck Techniques

Our surgeons recommend one of four abdominoplasty types based on consultation evaluations:

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1. Extended tummy tuck

2. Full tummy tuck

3. Short vertical scar tummy tuck

4. Umbilical float tummy tuck​

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Horizontal incisions are made low on the abdomen for minimal scarring, and progressive tension sutures are used to minimize fluid buildup and reduce scar appearance. Surgical drains help manage swelling and minimize complications.

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What Is a Mini Tummy Tuck?

A mini tummy tuck removes less than 3 inches of fat and skin, involving a smaller incision than a full abdominoplasty and no bellybutton reshaping. It does not tighten abdominal muscles, making it suitable for fewer patients. Dr. Boonipat will discuss all tummy tuck options during your consultation to determine the best approach.

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What to Expect During Recovery

Recovery time for a tummy tuck may be longer if abdominal muscles are tightened during the procedure. Patients with young children should arrange help for childcare, as lifting should be avoided for the first 10 days after surgery. Most patients can resume regular workouts by three weeks post-surgery. Pain is generally minimal, and patient satisfaction with the results is high.

Our surgeons use EXPAREL®, a long-lasting local anesthetic, before closing the incisions. This advance in pain management means that most patients experience only mild discomfort in the first 3 to 5 days following surgery.

To learn more about recovery, check out our tummy tuck aftercare guidelines.

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Start With a Consultation

To begin your tummy tuck journey, schedule a consultation at FacePlus Plastic Surgery or call our office. Conveniently located, we serve patients from West Texas, Lubbock, Midland, and New Mexico. 

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Tummy Tuck FAQ

How do I know if I need a tummy tuck or liposuction?

 

 

A tummy tuck is ideal for individuals with sagging skin, stretch marks, or a protruding belly due to separated abdominal muscles, which is often seen after pregnancy or significant weight loss. Liposuction is better for those with firm skin whose main concern is excess fat.

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Does a tummy tuck remove stretch marks?

A tummy tuck can remove some abdominal stretch marks by removing excess skin. Stretch marks on the remaining skin may also flatten and fade as the skin is tightened.

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Will my bellybutton be altered in a tummy tuck?

During a full tummy tuck, the surgeon makes an incision around the bellybutton to release it from the surrounding skin, creating a new opening to reposition it for a natural appearance. However, the bellybutton is typically not altered during a mini tummy tuck.

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How many dress sizes will I lose?

While a tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure, removing excess skin and fat and repairing muscles can result in a drop of one or two dress sizes.

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How long do tummy tuck results last?

The results of a tummy tuck are long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight and do not become pregnant again. Both weight fluctuations and pregnancy can impact tummy tuck results.

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