Body Contouring

Tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty)

For most patients, genetics play a large role in determining their adult body shape and size. As we age we begin to see our body change from its once well-proportioned contour to a not so flattering bulge around the waist, abdomen, hips, and thighs as we succumb to our family genetics, make poor lifestyle choices and our ability to metabolize food begins to slow down. Women with weak abdominal muscles from multiple pregnancies or loose skin that no longer responds to diet and exercise suddenly find the abdomen to be a problem area. Excess skin and fat deposits around the waist begin to appear with every passing year resulting in a body shape that resembles a bell. While exercise may tone the abdomen, it will not get rid of excess skin and fat. Men begin to see the appearance of fat deposits as they age, the so-called "spare tire" around the waist and abdomen. Gravity begins to pull weaken abdominal muscles and excess fat deposits down resulting in fat and excess skin hanging over the waistline.

Women and men who have experienced massive weight loss from dieting or surgery may find that sagging excess skin creates layers of skin that make it difficult to function normally. Looking in the mirror becomes a challenge. Depression and low self-esteem can begin to take hold as they wrestle with the way they look and how others look at them.

The fact is that no amount of dieting or exercise will remove excess skin. The only option is surgery. The plastic surgery option to remove excess fat deposits and skin and tighten abdominal muscles is called a "tummy tuck" or Abdominoplasty procedure.

At The Freeman Center for Plastic Surgery in the Woodlands we have spent the last 25 years studying the effects of excess skin and aging on the body. Under the direction of experienced board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Freeman we can help you select the right tummy tuck or Abdominoplasty procedure to reshape and re-contour your body to a youthful more attractive appearance.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Facts

For most tummy tuck procedures, the surgery is performed in a hospital or outpatient facility and is conducted under general anesthesia. After this, different degrees of Abdominoplasty can be done with certain modifications. In Mini-Abdominoplasty procedures, only the skin of the lower abdominal wall is tightened, resulting in a very short scar. Modified Abdominoplasty deals with only the muscle wall or abdominal skin and makes any necessary repairs. Standard Abdominoplasty tightens the entire abdominal wall skin, as well as the abdominal muscles, resulting in a standard scar. With an extended Abdominoplasty procedure, the abdomen and sides are tightened, resulting in a long scar that extends around the sides of the abdomen and onto the lower back.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Recuperation and Healing

Recovering from any type of Abdominoplasty can be a very time-consuming process and one that limits the mobility of the patient. Typically, one to three days of hospitalization or other type of professional medical care are required. Patients can typically begin moving or walking around 1-2 days after the procedure and resume light activity after 10-20 days. It is not uncommon for the treated area to be painful or uncomfortable for up to six weeks. All surgical procedures bring with them certain dangers and risks of complication. While minor unexpected complications do occur (uncommonly), major complications are very rare.

At The Freeman Center for Plastic Surgery we can discuss your personal recovery plan with you in greater detail and will help you prepare for what you can expect during your recuperation.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) and Other Surgical Options

Based on your body and personal aesthetic goals, Dr. Freeman may suggest potential alternative procedures for you including liposuction, breast procedures or a thigh lift.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Insurance Guidelines

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) is considered to be a cosmetic procedure by many insurance companies, and as such, is not covered under the policy. If your insurance company considers this treatment to be cosmetic, you will be responsible for covering the cost in full. It is suggested that you check with your insurance company about their policies regarding cosmetic procedures.

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