Tummy Tuck Southlake TX

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a major surgical procedure that eliminates excess skin and loose tissue from the stomach and tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall. Many women find that even with rigorous diet and exercise, they cannot get rid of the extra skin and often the protrusion of the stomach after having children. The best candidate for this procedure are men or women who are close to their ideal weight but have a deposit of abdominal fat or loose skin around their stomach. Dr. Mason believes that patients who intend to lose more weight or women who want to have more children should wait to have this procedure.

Procedure Details Southlake TX

The abdominoplasty is done under general anesthesia and usually takes 3 to 5 hours, depending on the amount of skin to remove and muscle to be repaired. An incision is typically made from hipbone to hipbone just above the pubic area (below the bikini line). A second incision is often made vertically in order to tighten the underlying abdominal muscles. The navel is often repositioned due to the removal of excess skin. The result is a firmer, flatter stomach and often, a narrower waistline.

• Click to see a 3D animation of the full tummy tuck procedure
• Click to see a 3D animation of the mini tummy tuck procedure

Recovery Details Southlake TX

Full recovery from an abdominoplasty often takes up to six weeks, depending on the patient. Walking may be difficult the first few days, and the stomach will feel swollen. A compression garment is worn for six weeks, but people can usually return to a desk job after approximately a week. At Southlake Plastic Surgery we encourage light physical activity, such as walking, after a week. Two drain tubes are typically inserted during surgery and remain for the first 5-7 days after surgery, depending on the extent of the procedure. Patients are restricted from full physical exercise such as aerobics, running, or weightlifting for at least six weeks. Complete recovery may take up to a few months in order to be rid of all swelling. During the healing process, the scars may appear to worsen for 3-6 months, but they usually begin fading after 9-12 months with the help of scar cream and time.