| Dr. Jeff O. Angobaldo is a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Here the Doctor has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Tummy Tuck.
Q. What is a tummy tuck?
A. A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a commonly performed cosmetic surgery for rejuvenation of the lower abdomen. It involves removal of excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen and tightening of the abdominal wall muscles. Whether you have lost a lot of weight recently, had a child, or just want some help getting your abdomen back in shape, you may want to consider a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck is not a replacement for weight loss. If you have a healthy lifestyle and are relatively close to your ideal body weight, then a tummy tuck can help. This procedure is a great way to enhance your appearance and improve your self-esteem.
Q. How is a tummy tuck performed?
A. The abdominoplasty procedure begins with the surgeon marking the patient’s abdomen, before the surgery, as a guide to direct the plastic surgeon once the patient is under sedation. An abdominoplasty typically involves a three part surgery. The first part of the surgery involves removal of the skin and fat from the lower belly. This is followed by tightening of the abdominal muscles which may have been separated after pregnancy and/or excessive weight fluctuations. When the remaining skin is stretched tight and smooth over the abdomen, the belly button is repositioned. An additional element of this procedure can include liposuction of the flanks for symmetry and extra contour.
Q. How long does tummy tuck surgery take?
A. This procedure can range from 2-4 hours depending on the patient’s anatomy.
Q. Are there risks and complications to a tummy tuck?
A. Like any surgical procedure, there are risks involved which can include bleeding, infection, fluid collection, contour irregularities, and necrosis of fat and skin, etc. The risks can be minimized with good patient selection. In general, a patient’s weight should be stable for at least 6 months before surgery. Good candidates for a tummy tuck procedure should be in good physical shape, non-smokers, and have no major medical problems such as heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Before surgery, patients should be mentally prepared, motivated and have realistic expectations. The abdomen should also be free of high scars from previous abdominal surgeries. This is considered a major surgery so, for your safety and an ideal result, it is important that your tummy tuck is performed by a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.
Q. What should one expect after the operation?
A. In addition to stitches, medical "glue" is applied along your incision, two drains are put into place to collect fluid, and an abdominal binder is worn. The binder is worn for a period of 3-6 weeks, and drains are removed in 3-10 days depending on the amount of drainage. Another significant aspect of recovery is positioning; following a tummy tuck, the patient is positioned in a beach chair position with the head elevated and hips flexed. For approximately 1-2 weeks after surgery, patients use this position to rest and for walking. In other words, the patient will be hunched over in an attempt to not stress the incisions and sutures. Patients are advised to minimize all activities for the first 2 weeks, but can typically resume all activities, including exercise, after 6 weeks.
Q. How much does a tummy tuck cost?
A. The price is based on the individual needs of the patient, but generally ranges from $8,000-$12,000.
Q. How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?
A. The results of a tummy tuck are dramatic and long lasting. However, over time, skin loses its elasticity so the skin of the abdomen can change, causing a gradual increase in loose skin of the abdomen. Pregnancy and fluctuations in weight can also alter the results of the procedure.
Q. How to contact Dr. Angobaldo if we have further questions?
A.
address : 6105 Windcom Ct. Ste 150 Plano, TX 75093
phone : (972) 275-6911
email : Jeff Angobaldo [jangobaldo@hotmail.com]
website : http://www.renaissanceplasticsurgerytx.com/ |
