What is a “tummy tuck” procedure (abdominoplasty)?

A Tummy Tuck (abdominoplasty) is a procedure which involves removal of extra fat, skin and tightening of the abdominal muscles in your abdominal wall. This surgical procedure can also involve repositioning or creating a new belly button opening on the abdominal skin. This means up to 4 anatomical areas are addressed on the abdomen with only 1 procedure, leading to significant changes and transformations for patients.

There are multiple types of Tummy tucks. Starting with:

• A Mini tuck, which involves addressing a small portion of the lower abdomen skin/fat with or without need for repairing the lower abdominal muscles.
• The maximum extent of correction of the abdomen involves an “extended abdominoplasty” or “Maxi tuck” which involves an incision from hip/hip region which will involve removal of the entire lower abdomen/fat tissue along with total repair of upper and lower abdominal muscles. Here the umbilicus (belly button) will also be repositioned.

It is important to consult a board-certified cosmetic surgeon that can specify which of the types is indicated to you. At Modern Surgical Arts of Denver, Drs. Dastoury or Zwiebel will evaluate all patients seeking body contouring to plan for the ideal procedure for each individual patient.

What should I expect from a “tummy tuck” scar?

At Modern Surgical Arts of Denver, we take the potential scaring very seriously as a board-certified cosmetic surgeon, Drs. Dastoury or Zwiebel will identify and place the desired incision as low as possible. We want patients to have the option of wearing a bathing suit without having to be self-conscious about their abdominoplasty scar. Drs. Dastoury or Zwiebel also utilizes a combination of silicone cream and silicone sheets for up to 1 year during the healing process. Silicone has been shown to help with scar maturation, redness, and help create flat scars. Additionally, at Modern Surgical Arts of Denver we offer laser treatments for scars treatment at 3-6 months. Lastly, if scars are widened Drs. Dastoury or Zwiebel may offer to perform a scar revision for ideal healing and results after the 3-month healing period.

Before And After Tummy Tuck Case

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Does Belly Fat Come Back After Tummy Tuck Surgery?

A tummy tuck is one of the most popular forms of cosmetic body surgery because it addresses a common problem: the abdomen. Even with diet and exercise, many people cannot lose the roundness and bloated appearance typical of the tummy area. A tummy tuck removes the stubborn remaining fat, tightens the skin, and improves the appearance of the abdominal muscles. But do the results last?

Weight Distribution and Your Tummy Tuck

Following a tummy tuck, your abdominal area will be flatter because your surgeon has removed excess fat and skin. However, the procedure is localized, so any weight loss will only be in the surgical region. Your hips, buttocks, and other areas remain unchanged.

In the area of your tummy tuck, fat cells are removed. Those cells are gone forever and cannot return. If your weight fluctuates by 10 to 15 pounds after a tummy tuck, the weight will be gained in other areas where you have more fat cells.

While you may still have some fat cells in the abdominal area, there are not as many, and you will not grow new fat cells. However, if you gain excessive weight, the remaining cells may grow larger. Following a tummy tuck, these larger fat cells are not as much of a problem because the surgery has joined the abdominal muscles on either side for a firmer, leaner appearance that holds the fat in place beneath the muscle.

Realistic Expectations

Remember that a tummy tuck is a contouring procedure, not a weight loss procedure. While you may lose a few pounds when the excess fat and skin are removed, this is not about losing lots of excess weight. The surgery targets small areas of stubborn belly fat and sagging or loose skin for a tighter, more fit appearance. Be aware that significant weight gain or pregnancy will stretch out the muscles and can negatively impact the success of your tummy tuck.

What You Can Do to Maintain Your Tummy Tuck

The flat stomach you are rewarded with following a tummy tuck can last indefinitely if your weight stays within a range of 15 pounds above or below your surgery weight. Because the muscles have been surgically placed for optimal effectiveness, you will continue to see a flatter stomach even years after surgery unless you gain a lot of weight.

The best way to ensure lasting results is to maintain your body weight and exercise regularly to keep the abdominal walls strong. This prevents stretching of the skin and muscles, helping you keep your sleek new look. Be aware of any triggers contributing to weight gain, including stress, hormone shifts, and lack of sleep. While your weight will change as you age, a good exercise and healthy eating plan can help you maintain your tummy tuck for years.

Questions regarding a tummy tuck? Drs. Dastoury or Zwiebel is happy to answer any and all questions in person or via tele-visit consultations. Give us a call at Highlands Ranch Office Phone Number 303-470-3400 to schedule a consultation to discuss your esthetic desires and learn more about how a tummy tuck can help.