Tummy Tuck in Houston, TX
- OVERVIEW
- CONSULTATION
- PROCEDURE
- RECOVERY
- COMBINING PROCEDURES
Have pregnancy and weight changes left you with a flabby abdomen? Do you desire a flatter firmer tummy? If yes, a tummy tuck procedure (also called stomach tuck or tummy surgery) may be what you need to realize your dream. Medically termed abdominoplasty, this is a surgical procedure that improves the contour of your stomach.
Tummy surgery is often desired by patients in Houston after they have lost weight, after pregnancy, or due to aging. During the procedure excess skin and fat are removed from the lower abdomen and the muscles of the stomach are tightened by a plastic surgeon. The belly button is moved into a new more attractive position.
Schedule your consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bachilo today to learn how you can have a slimmer silhouette and a more appealing abdomen you have been dreaming of. Glamour Plastic Surgery and Med Spa is located in Houston, just a short distance from Katy.
What to Expect During Abdominoplasty Consultation?
Dr. Bachilo will review your medical history, perform an exam, and listen to what you would like to achieve. She will offer different options for treatment and together with you design the best tummy tuck plan to attain your ideal result, whether you desire a mini, full, or extended tummy tuck. Dr. Bachilo will discuss any risks related to the procedure and give you instructions on how to best get ready for your operation. Your tummy tuck options in Houston include a traditional, full tummy tuck, drainless tummy tuck, mini tummy tuck, or non-surgical options. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Bachilo will recommend the option that is best suited to your unique needs.
How Is Abdominoplasty Performed?
The traditional tummy tuck is done at an outpatient surgical center or a hospital under general anesthesia. The procedure usually takes 2.5 to 3 hours and patients may go home or choose to stay at the hospital overnight.
An incision is made in your lower tummy and around the navel. The abdominal skin and fat are raised from the abdominal wall for access. Loose tummy muscles are tightened with stitches to produce a flatter belly. Excess skin and fat are removed and the incision is closed with all absorbable sutures. The incision around the belly button is also closed. Most of the time two drains are placed in the abdomen. An abdominal binder is used for support.
What to Expect During Tummy Tuck Recovery
It is normal for tummy tuck patients to experience some pain and mostly tightness in the abdomen. You will feel like there is a corset around your torso. You will have some bruising and swelling as well.
Dr. Bachilo will follow you closely during your recovery. Your drains will be removed within the first week or two. Sutures do not need to be removed as they will all be absorbable.
Dos and don’ts after abdominoplasty:
- Do wear your surgical compression garment or abdominal binder for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Ambulate early after your tummy tuck surgery.
- Don’t do any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Don’t drive while taking your narcotic pain medications.
Six weeks after surgery you can resume all of your regular activities including exercise and core training.
Can Tummy Tuck Be Combined with Other Procedures?
Abdominoplasty is often combined with adjunct surgical procedures such as body lift and liposuction. Abdominoplasty is also one of the procedures within the mommy makeover, designed to achieve comprehensive results while minimizing tummy tuck cost.
Liposuction
To further improve torso contour, liposuction of the hips and flanks can safely be performed at the same time as the abdominoplasty.
Body Lift
Specifically indicated for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight, circumferential body lift removes excess tissue on hips and buttocks, and can safely be combined with a full tummy tuck. The procedure begins with the patient lying on their tummy and excision of the back and hip excess tissues is done first. The patient is then turned on the back and a full abdominoplasty is performed.
Mommy Makeover
The term mommy makeover is used for a combination of procedures that usually involves a full tummy tuck and breast surgery. Breast procedure of choice may be breast reduction, breast augmentation with implants, breast lift, or a combination of lift with implants.
Schedule your free consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bachilo today and start enjoying your new slimmer silhouette!