Achieve a Flatter, Tighter Tummy
The abdominal area is one of the most difficult body parts to sculpt. The fact is that pregnancy, genetics, extreme weight loss and aging can make the abdominal area the “Achilles heel” of both men’s and women’s bodies. A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedure can help tone and sculpt your mid-section. Board certified tummy tuck surgeon Dr. David Allison makes sure that patients understand that this is not a weight loss solution; it is a procedure to supplement your existing good habits.
What a Tummy Tuck Can Correct
Tummy tuck procedures are performed to:
- Tighten weakened abdominal muscles due to pregnancy
- Remove excess skin remaining after extreme weight loss
- Tighten skin that has begun to droop or sag
- Minimize a protruding stomach
- Create a smaller waistline
- Tighten stretch-marked skin
- Create a flatter, tighter abdomen
Tummy Tuck Procedure
There are different types of tummy tucks. The right procedure for your unique situation will depend on where the excess fat or skin is located on your abdomen and how much fat or skin must be removed. Liposuction may be incorporated in conjunction with the procedure in order to remove the proper amount of fat and truly sculpt a fantastic abdomen.
- Full Tummy Tuck: An incision is made along the bikini line from hipbone to hipbone. Through this incision excess fat is removed from the entire abdominal section. Abdominal muscles are also tightened. Any excess skin is then stretched downward and removed before the incision area is stitched closed. To produce natural-looking results, the navel may need to be repositioned.
- Mini Tummy Tuck: If your trouble areas lie below your navel, a mini tummy tuck may be sufficient. During this procedure a smaller incision is made along the bikini line to allow Dr. Allison to again remove excess fat and skin and tighten the abdominal muscles. The navel typically does not need to be repositioned. The incisions are stitched closed after surgery.
Both procedures require you be under general anesthesia. A temporary drainage tube may be inserted to allow excess blood or fluid to safely exit the body during recovery.
Tummy Tuck Recovery
You must allow ample time to heal properly after tummy tuck surgery: a minimum of 1-2 weeks. Dr. Allison will provide instructions on how to treat your body as it heals. You should remember to:
- Wear the recommended compression garment
- Watch for any signs of infection in the incision area – keep it clean
- Avoid lifting heavy objects for several weeks
- Avoid strenuous activity for several weeks, but walk daily to avoid blood clots
- Use medications and any ointment prescribed by your doctor
- Avoid smoking or second-hand smoke for at least 2-4 weeks
Risks of Tummy Tucks
- Anesthesia reactions
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Delayed healing
- Blood clots
- Fluid or blood collection under the skin
- Altered skin sensations due to nerve disruption
- Pain
- Changes in skin color
If you desire a tighter, flatter and smoother tummy, let Dr. Allison help you achieve a pleasing abdominal profile. Contact us today to schedule your free Cosmetic Consultation and find out if a tummy tuck in Northern Virginia is right for you.