Tummy tuck (AKA Abdominoplasty or Mommy Tuck) is for tightening and flattening the post-pregnancy and/or post-partum female abdomen that has been stretched by aging and/or pregnancy. The procedure involves narrowing the waist, removing lower abdominal skin and fat (below the belly button), and shaping the abdominal surface to a more youthful, fit contour. Childbearing, especially repeated childbearing, pregnancies in the late 30's and 40's, and twin pregnancies, stretch the abdominal wall beyond the point that can be restored with weight loss and exercise. Abdominoplasty is not a weight loss procedure, but is indicated for restoration of a more youthful contour once post-partum weight has stabilized at a healthy level. Downsides of the operation are recovery time (1-3 weeks before returning to work) and a scar across the lower abdomen. Before scheduling the procedure, review scars on "after" photographs of your surgeon's past patients to be sure you understand the size, location, and expected character of your scar. The scar fades over time, is well hidden beneath bikini bottom and panties (maybe not very low cut or thong). Dr. Laverson applies special techniques to create a sexy belly button and attractive contour. The day of your procedure, wear the swimsuit bottom or underwear style you would like to conceal the scar so Dr. Laverson can better plan your procedure. Many women combine tummy tuck with breast lift, breast augmentation, and/or liposuction ("Mommy Makeover") for an alluring, feminine silhouette.
Frequently Asked Abdominoplasty Questions
Does Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck/mommy tuck)eliminate "stretch marks" from my pregnancy?
If the stretch marks (striae) are located in on the lower abdomen (below the belly button) then they will be removed by abdominoplasty. Typically, all of the skin from just above the navel to the pubic region is removed. This skin often contains stretch marks and redundant skin. The upper skin (above the belly button) is then stretched down to the pubis to cover the entire abdomen, contoured, trimmed to fit, and closed. If stretch marks are above the belly button or on other areas like the hips and/or buttocks, tummy tuck may move these stretch marks and decrease their visibility.
Liposuction
Beyond healthy diet and regular exercise, liposuction diminishes or removes unsightly bulges of fat to refine your figure. Because liposuction is safe and effective in permanent removal of fat, it has become popular for both men and women. Most common sites for fat removal are the hips, thighs, buttocks, flanks, and abdomen. Best results are achieved if your skin retains youthful elasticity. This can be evaluated during consultation. Liposuction may be performed under local anesthesia for single or small areas, but general anesthesia is recommended for several areas or larger amounts of fat removal. Recovery lasts days to weeks, and scars are minimal. Liposuction is not a procedure to lose weight. Because only fat is removed, liposuction does not correct sagging skin after weight loss or aging. These problems are more suited to dermolipectomy, the removal of both skin and fat. Dermolipectomy scars are longer than after liposuction, but shape and proportion of the abdomen, breasts, thighs, and upper arms can be improved significantly.
Estimated cost $5500-$9000.
Liposuction Questions
What is "tumescent" liposuction?
Tumescent liposuction is a technique that can reduce post operative bruising, swelling and pain. Also, blood loss is minimized during tumescent liposuction due to the effects of using a local anesthetic. In the tumescent technique, areas of excess fat are injected with a large amount of anesthetic liquid before liposuction is performed. The liquid causes the compartments of fat to become swollen and firm or "tumesced." The expanded fat compartments allow the liposuction cannula to travel smoothly beneath the skin as the fat is removed. This can give benefits like extra precision for the surgeon, reduced loss of blood for the patient, and extended pain relief after surgery, which can reduce the need for pain medication immediately after surgery.
Why do patients wear a compression garment after surgery?
Swelling is expected after liposuction, a compression garment helps reduce swelling and helps to reshape the tissue. Many patients see little difference or are even larger during the first week after surgery. The following week, patients usually begin to see results. After 2 months, the patient will be at about 80% of the result. Improvement continues until about 6 months after surgery when all of the swelling should be gone. I usually ask patients to wear their compression garment for 10-14 days around the clock.
Can I still gain weight after liposuction?
We are born with a certain number of fat cells. During liposuction, fat cells are removed with the surgery. The remaining fat cells get bigger when you get bigger and get smaller when you get smaller. If you maintain your weight, the fat should not come back to the liposuctioned areas. If you put on weight, it will more likely be distributed evenly over the body and less likely to go to your 'trouble zones'.
Will I still have cellulite or rippling after liposuction
The aim and goal of surgery is to improve one's appearance as it relates to shape and volume. Depending upon the degree and the magnitude one's cellulite and rippling prior to surgery, will affect the post -operative outcome. In mild to moderate cases, the cellulite and rippling is usually improved with the surgery. But, no promises can be made regarding cellulite. Liposuction improves the overall shape of the body in addition to making it smaller.
How much will my post-op appointments cost?
There is NO charge for post surgical visits.
Take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions about Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery
