Tummy Tuck
Many tummy tuck patients struggle with similar complaints about their physique – I can’t get a flatter tummy, no matter what I do. Diet and exercise certainly have a role to play, but often, there are other causes, such as loose skin and separated abdominal muscles, particularly after pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations. Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, is designed to remedy those common aesthetic concerns. At our Frisco office, board-certified plastic surgeon Geo N. Tabbal, MD understands his patients’ feelings and desires for a more contoured abdomen, and strives to help them feel more comfortable in their skin and confident in their appearance.
To meet with Dr. Tabbal and discuss either a tummy tuck or other body contouring procedure, please request a consultation or give us a call at (469) 905-6562 to schedule an appointment.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery procedure aimed at enhancing the appearance of the abdomen. This treatment involves removing excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall. It is particularly popular among women post-pregnancy or those who have undergone significant weight loss, as it helps to restore a smoother, firmer abdomen with flatter contours.
What Are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck can reduce excess skin in the abdominal area and redrape the remaining skin for a firmer appearance. Essentially, a tummy tuck can successfully address aesthetic abdominal concerns that are unresponsive to diet regimens and exercise routines. This treatment can be ideal for both women and men who would like to improve the appearance of the abdomen and achieve a firmer, more toned look in this area. In some cases, tummy tuck surgery can even eliminate the appearance of stretch marks when they appear in areas where excess skin will be removed. The procedure also tightens abdominal muscles that may have become stretched out or weakened. Additionally, these benefits can effectively improve posture and potentially alleviate certain types of back pain. Moreover, aesthetic improvements from tummy tuck surgery can often lead to enhanced self-esteem and body confidence, motivating a healthier lifestyle to maintain the surgical results.
Who Is a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
An abdominoplasty, or “tummy tuck” procedure, is often ideal for people who are otherwise healthy but have a persistent excess of skin around the abdomen, lax abdominal muscles, and an abdominal contour that hides the improvement or positive change made with diet and exercise. In many cases, the abdomen protrudes disproportionately, often after pregnancy or a significant amount of weight has been lost. During your consultation, Dr. Tabbal can evaluate your needs and goals to determine procedure candidacy.
What Does the Tummy Tuck Procedure Entail?
Abdominoplasty can correct not just loose skin, but also separated abdominal muscles – a condition called diastasis recti. This condition causes a protruding or bulging belly and a weakened core.
Abdominoplasty corrects not just loose skin, but also separated abdominal muscles – a condition called diastasis recti.
Accordingly, there are two major goals of an abdominoplasty:
- To remove the excess, stretched, or sagging skin that can hang over the abdomen
- To tighten the abdominal muscles and trim the contour of your waist
In a full tummy tuck, Dr. Tabbal will make an incision below the bikini line extending from hip to hip, along with a small circular incision around the belly button. He then excises the sagging skin, sutures the abdominal muscles back together, and repositions the remaining skin downward.
A tummy tuck may also include liposuction if Dr. Tabbal sees that removing fat pockets in the abdomen or flanks will improve the contours of your final result.
Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure
For some of our Frisco and Plano, Texas patients, a smaller incision can be made in the center of the abdomen, below the bikini line. This is appropriate for patients who have only a small amount of excess skin that’s centrally located below the navel. Dr. Tabbal will tell you during your examination if your surgery falls under this category.
What Results Can I Expect from Tummy Tuck Surgery?
A tummy tuck can result in a flatter, more contoured abdominal area when performed by a dedicated and qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Tabbal. Stretch marks, primarily those located below the belly button, may also be reduced or eliminated. The outcome can be a more youthful, toned abdomen that can greatly enhance your self-esteem and confidence. However, it is important to note that results can vary among individuals, and maintaining a stable weight through diet and exercise is crucial for lasting results. Full effects can be visible once swelling subsides and the healing process completes.
Contact our office today to learn more about abdominoplasty or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Tabbal.