Overview

Good diet and exercise is always beneficial but for some people, they’re unable to attain the flat stomach they dream of, no matter how disciplined they are. A tummy tuck enables such people to get the body they truly desire.

Tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) is a procedure that removes excess skin and fat from around the abdomen in order to give the stomach a flatter and smoother appearance. Excess skin and fat around the abdomen is often due to genetic factors but can also be caused by pregnancy and aging.

Dr Constantine’s Philosophy
on Tummy Tucks

I always aim to achieve the most natural looking results with any type of cosmetic procedure and tummy tucks are no different. A minimally invasive procedure that leaves the least scarring possible is always the most desirable result and this is what I aim for. By discussing things with my patients beforehand and doing a full assessment of the skin and fat around their abdomen, I’m able to decide on the best approach.

The patient presented is a 36 year old who has had children and gained a bit of weight afterwards. She was wanting to get her pre pregnancy body back. She also suffered from having large breasts. She was a 38I cup size and suffered from significant neck, back, and should pain.

She underwent a traditional breast reduction with abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and liposuction of her flanks and abdomen all in same operation. She was required to stay overnight for observation and was back at home the following morning. The post operative pictures are shown.

What Results Can I Expect?

The results of a tummy tuck will vary since everyone has a different level of skin and fat around the abdomen and skin elasticity also varies. Typically, the result of a tummy tuck is a much smoother and firmer stomach. You’ll be able to appreciate the results of the procedure a week or two afterwards when the most serious swelling and bruising has subsided.

*Individual results may Vary

Am I a Suitable Candidate?

The best candidates for a tummy tuck are patients who are of a healthy weight, who do not smoke and have realistic expectations of the results that can be achieved.

If you fit this criteria and feel that you have excess skin and fat around your abdomen, then you would certainly quality for a tummy tuck.

If you’d like to discuss a tummy tuck procedure with Dr Constantine then you can book a consultation by calling (214) 739-5760.

QUICK FACTS TUMMY TUCK

WHAT IS A TUMMY TUCK?

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen to create a flatter and more toned appearance. The procedure can also restore weakened or separated muscles.

WHAT TYPES OF TUMMY TUCK ARE AVAILABLE?

There are three types of tummy tuck procedures: mini abdominoplasty, standard abdominoplasty, and extended abdominoplasty. The type of procedure recommended for you depends on the amount of soft tissue that needs to be removed and the results you want to achieve.

• Mini abdominoplasty involves making a small incision in the lower abdomen and removing a small amount of tissue. The skin on either side of the incision is then pulled together and stitched. 
• Standard abdominoplasty is recommended for people with a larger amount of excess tissue. More tissue is removed, and the navel may need to be repositioned to maintain proportionality.
• Extended abdominoplasty targets excess fat and skin around the abdomen, hips, and lower back. The incision is made across the lower abdomen from one side of the pelvis to the other. The navel may also need to be repositioned.

The size of the incision made during the tummy tuck procedure affects the recovery time.

Mini Abdominoplasty
A mini tummy tuck involves making a minor incision in the lower abdomen and removing a small amount of soft tissue. Once the tissue has been removed, the skin on from each side of the incision is then pulled together and stitched.

This technique is carried out during all three types of abdominoplasty as it’s what gives the tummy its tight and toned appearance, but the size of the incision depends on the amount of flesh that needs to be removed.

Standard Abdominoplasty
A standard abdominoplasty is carried out for people with a larger amount of excess tissue. Because of the fact that a larger amount of tissue is removed, the navel will need to be repositioned in order to make it proportionate to the tummy.

Extended Abdominoplasty
This type of tummy tuck focuses on removing excess fat and skin from around the abdomen, hips and lower back. The incision is made across the lower abdomen from one side of the pelvis to the other. Just like the standard tummy tuck, the navel will need to be repositioned.

The smaller the incision made during the tummy tuck procedure, the less time you will take to recover.

HOW LONG DOES THE PROCEDURE TAKE?

A tummy tuck usually takes between 2-4 hours.

WHAT TYPE OF ANESTHESIA IS USED?

General anesthesia is typically used for tummy tuck procedures.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS?

As with any surgical procedure, there are some side effects associated with a tummy tuck, including:

• Soreness and tenderness in the days following surgery
• Temporary numbness in some cases
• Permanent scarring, which should fade over time
• Temporary swelling and bruising around the abdomen

These side effects should subside within a few months after surgery. If you have any concerns or experience abnormal side effects, consult your surgeon immediately.

WHAT IS THE RECOVERY TIME?

Bruising and swelling usually subside within 3 weeks, but subtle swelling may take up to 6 months to completely disappear.

WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER BEFORE HAVING A TUMMY TUCK?

Before deciding to have a tummy tuck, consider the following:

• You will need to take time off work and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity during the recovery period.
• Maintaining a steady weight for at least 6 months before surgery is recommended to achieve optimal results.
• If you are female, you should consider whether you plan to have children in the future, as pregnancy can stretch the skin that has been tightened.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

The main benefit of having a tummy tuck is the visible improvement in your abdominal appearance, resulting in a flatter and more toned tummy.

WHEN CAN I SEE THE FINAL APPEARANCE?

All major swelling and bruising typically subside within a month

HOW LONG DO THE RESULTS LAST?

The results of a tummy tuck are permanent, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding significant weight gain is crucial for optimal long-term results.