What is Tummy Tuck Surgery?
For both men and women, loose skin and pockets of fat surrounding the abdomen can be frustrating and challenging despite attempts to get rid of it. Pregnancy, weight loss, and aging are the main reasons why someone may not be able to reclaim a tighter and slimmer stomach. Skin tightening of the abdomen is a cosmetic procedure that redefines the stomach area, achieving youthful-looking results for patients. Oklahoma City, OK plastic surgeons Drs. Erik Nuveen and Courtney Caplin perform abdominoplasty that is based on the amount of excess skin and fat present. This popular surgery at Cosmetic Surgery Affiliates allows patients the chance to achieve a slimmer, tighter tummy and more confidence. Learn more about how a tummy tuck can remove excess skin and fat while also tightening the stomach muscles before contacting us for your consultation.
Tummy Tuck Reviews
Am I a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tuck surgery can be performed on both women and men. If you find yourself upset over loose or wrinkly skin, as well as pesky pockets of fat in the tummy section, this surgical treatment can help produce a tighter and slimmer figure. Dr. Nuveen advises you to be at a stable weight prior to surgery. Abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss. Rather, its purpose is solely to remove loose skin. If you want, liposuction can be implemented during the procedure in order to remove fat and enhance your results. If your abdomen has healthy skin laxity, but you still are not satisfied with how your tummy looks and feels, even if diet and exercise have failed, you may be a better candidate for liposuction. Women interested in abdominoplasty should not be considering childbirth in the future so that their results are not affected.
How is a Tummy Tuck Performed?
Body contouring of the abdomen is performed with general anesthesia. There are various techniques that come into consideration when this surgery is performed by one of our skilled surgeons. The surgery is customized according to the individual's specific goals. To start, the incision type is chosen based upon the quantity of excess skin. Some individuals with extensive loose skin might benefit best from an extended tummy tuck. A full or extended tummy tuck makes the incision from hip bone to hip bone, just on top of the pubic line. Some individuals with minimal skin laxity may be better candidates for a mini tummy tuck. These individuals still benefit from skin tightening but will simply have a less expansive scar. Regardless of the technique used, all abdominoplasty procedures at Cosmetic Surgery Affiliates involve the excision of sagging skin and liposuction.
What are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck?
Though the word "tummy tuck" is one of the most recognizable terms in all of cosmetic surgery, many patients are unaware of exactly what it does. This procedure can offer a number of benefits, including:
- Tighter skin on and around the stomach
- A stronger core
- Less risk of select medical conditions
- Lower chance of hernia
- Enhanced control over bodily functions
- Relieves stress urinary incontinence
What Results Can I Expect from a Tummy Tuck?
After your tummy tuck surgery, you will be monitored and released wearing a compression garment to assist with swelling. Walking and standing will be challenging at first so you should rest for a couple of days. Walking becomes easier once the muscles relax and the incision begins to heal. Most patients should be able to resume normal activities within two weeks. Exercise can resume later, closer to 6 – 8 weeks or when you are cleared by Dr. Nuveen or Dr. Caplin. Your abdomen will feel sore and tight, but you will feel yourself again after your recovery progresses.
Tummy Tuck FAQ
How much does a tummy tuck cost?
At the time of your initial consultation, one of our skilled surgeons will develop your unique treatment plan to help you reach your unique concerns and aesthetic goals before estimating the cost of your treatment. At that time, we will be able to better estimate your costs. To ensure you get great results from an experienced surgeon, Cosmetic Surgery Affiliates makes it easier to afford your tummy tuck by accepting several payment methods and giving you information on low-interest financing.
What type of tummy tuck should I get?
You will likely receive one of the three most common techniques for abdominoplasty: full, extended, and/or mini. During your initial consultation, we will listen to your concerns and goals before performing a physical exam. Then, one of our surgeons will determine the technique most likely to provide the results you desire. A full abdominoplasty is best if you would like to correct loose skin in both the lower and upper stomach, whereas a mini-abdominoplasty is better for extra skin under your belly button. The extended technique can address issues in the stomach, plus your upper thighs and hips.
How will my scars appear?
Surgical incisions for your abdominoplasty will vary based on which technique is being used. During all tummy tucks, our surgeons use the smallest incisions possible to minimize scarring. They also place incisions in areas that are less visible (such as through the belly button or in the pubic region) — so they may be hidden by underwear or a swimsuit. Following your tummy tuck, it is important to adhere to your scar management instructions — so your stitches heal properly and eventually blend into your natural skin.
Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?
Although it is still possible to get pregnant following an abdominoplasty, it will likely affect your results. We strongly encourage that you complete your family before scheduling your abdominoplasty. If you become pregnant following your tummy tuck, another surgery may be done to touch up your results.
Can I get a tummy tuck with another surgery?
A lot of patients add a second body surgery with abdominoplasty to give them more dramatic results. At your initial consultation, be candid about your aesthetic goals with our surgeons so a comprehensive surgical plan may be created for you. You might combine abdominoplasty with a thighplasty for a lower body lift or other areas for all-over body contouring. If you want to rejuvenate your body after having children or losing a lot of weight, you might be a good candidate for after weight loss surgery or a mommy makeover.
Increase Your Confidence Today
A variety of factors can lead to a stretched-out abdominal area that leaves behind hanging folds of skin. We understand it can be annoying and frustrating — tummy tuck surgery is generally the only way to overcome this. If you are embarrassed by the stretched-out skin in your abdominal region, no matter how minimal or severe, tummy tuck surgery by Dr. Nuveen in Oklahoma City, OK can allow you to get the body you want. Please contact Cosmetic Surgery Affiliates to learn more.
