Tummy Tuck
WHAT IS TUMMY TUCK SURGERY?
For women and men alike, hanging skin and excess fat surrounding the abdominal region can be frustrating and stubborn. Significant weight loss, childbirth, and aging are the main reasons why an individual may not be able to attain a slim and tight abdomen. A tummy tuck is a body contouring procedure that transforms the abdomen, creating a more youthful contour. In Houston, TX, plastic surgeon Dr. Ryan Couvillion performs multiple different types of tummy tuck surgeries that vary based on the amount of excess skin and fat present. This cosmetic treatment at SBA Dermatology & Plastic Surgery allows patients the opportunity to have a slimmer, tighter tummy and renewed confidence. Read more about how abdominoplasty can eliminate excess fat and skin while also tightening the abdominal muscles.
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WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR A TUMMY TUCK?
Tummy tuck surgery can be performed on both men and women. If you are frustrated with loose skin in addition to excess fat in the lower abdomen, this surgical treatment can help reclaim a slimmer and more toned silhouette. Dr. Couvillion recommends you be at a healthy and stable weight before undergoing this treatment. Tummy tuck surgery is not a weight-loss procedure — the main goal is to remove loose skin and tighten stretched abdominal muscles. Liposuction is often incorporated during the procedure to eliminate fat in some areas and give a better end result. If your lower stomach has good skin tone with minimal extra skin and stretch marks, we may recommend liposuction instead of a tummy tuck. Women interested in abdominoplasty should be done with pregnancies for an ideal result, but a pregnancy after a tummy tuck is still possible, it will just change the results.
HOW DOES A TUMMY TUCK WORK?
Tummy tuck surgery performed by Dr. Couvillion usually is done under general anesthesia. There are several different surgical techniques that may be used, and the choice of which is used is based on the patient's unique anatomy. To start, the incision length needed is based on the amount of excess skin. Some individuals with a very large amount of extra skin might benefit best from an extended tummy tuck. This method uses an incision that goes from hip to hip and can also wrap around the sides. Some individuals who have minimal skin laxity may be better candidates for a smaller incision somewhat like a c-section scar. These patients still benefit from the muscle tightening portion of tummy tuck surgery but will simply have a less extensive scar. Regardless of the type, all abdominoplasty procedures at SBA Dermatology involve the excision of loose skin and tightening the abdominal muscles.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER A TUMMY TUCK?
After your tummy tuck surgery, you will be carefully examined and sent home wearing a compression garment to reduce swelling. Walking and standing will be a sore for awhile, so you should take it easy for several days. Moving about becomes less painful once the muscles begin to heal in their new position and the incision heals. You should be able to resume normal day-to-day activities in about two weeks. Workouts can begin around six weeks or earlier if you are given permission by Dr. Couvillion. The abdominal area will feel sore and tight, but you will feel normal once healed. Dr. Couvillion uses a rapid recovery medication schedule after surgery that minimizes or eliminates opiate medication use. We also use an amazing numbing injectable medication that lasts 2 to 3 days.
TUMMY TUCK FAQs
How much does a tummy tuck cost?
At the time of your consult, Dr. Couvillion will create your unique abdominoplasty plan to address your personal concerns and goals before estimating costs. He will be able to better estimate your costs once the type of abdominoplasty is decided, the length of surgery, any additional procedures (like liposuction, breast surgery, etc), and other factors. To ensure you get high-quality results from an experienced plastic surgeon, SBA Dermatology & Plastic Surgery makes it easier to afford your tummy tuck by accepting several payment methods and giving you information on zero interest medical financing options.
What type of tummy tuck should I get?
Most people are candidates for one of the three most common techniques for abdominoplasty: full, extended, or mini. During your initial consultation, Dr. Couvillion will listen to your concerns and goals before performing a physical exam. Then, he will discuss the technique that will produce the best results specifically for you. Your anatomy and goals are the most important deciding factor in which technique is chosen so this is why a personalized consultation is essential!
What will my scars look like?
The incisions needed for your abdominoplasty will vary based on which technique is being used. In a standard tummy tuck, there is an incision at the belly button and in the pubic region (like where a c-section scar lies). During all tummy tucks, Dr. Couvillion's goal is to create the smallest, thinnest possible scars. He takes extra effort to hide the belly button incision, as in a two-piece bathing suit, this is the scar that is visible. It is our goal to make scars that are hard to notice and not distract from your result
Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?
Although you may still get pregnant following an abdominoplasty, it will likely affect your results. Dr. Couvillion strongly encourages that you be finished building your family before you have an abdominoplasty. If you do become pregnant following your tummy tuck, another surgery may be needed to recreate your previous results.
Can I have a tummy tuck with another surgery?
Many patients combine a second surgery with abdominoplasty, as combing procedures on the same day leads to a single recovery period and also may save money on hospital fees. These additional procedures may be cosmetic (like a breast augmentation) or medical (like a hysterectomy). At your initial consultation with Dr. Couvillion, talk to him about all of your desires so a comprehensive surgical plan may be created to match your aesthetic goals. You might combine abdominoplasty with a breast lift or combine it with liposuction of the back for all-over body contouring.
ATTAIN A TIGHTER TUMMY
A variety of factors can result in a sagging abdominal area with extra skin and stretched muscles. We understand it can be a troubling problem to have — surgery is usually the only way to completely correct this. If you are tired of having loose skin in your abdominal region, regardless of the severity, abdominoplasty by Dr. Couvillion in Houston, TX can help you get the body you want. We invite you to call SBA Dermatology & Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation for more information.
When it comes to aesthetic plastic surgery, it's important to choose an experienced and dedicated surgeon who is committed to your desired surgical goals. To meet with our double board-certified plastic surgeon, Ryan Couvillion, MD and his team, call our office at 713.275.9908.